smart drug debate

I find the concept of congnitive-enhancement drugs fascinating. Substances like Adderall (see UM article here) and Modafinil (see UM article here), typically prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy in the elderly have proven incredibly effective ‘off label’ as work and study aids. 

In the UK, the British Medical Association is finally taking action; suggesting a public debate on the potential risks and rewards of allowing healthy individuals access to these tightly controlled substances.

The ability of prescription drugs and medical procedures to improve intellectual performance is likely to increase significantly in the next 20 to 30 years as technology advances.

“We know that there is likely to be a demand by healthy individuals for this treatment,” Dr Tony Calland, chairman of the BMA’s Medical Ethics Committee said at the launch of a discussion paper on the issue.

The demand exists now.  Knowing from personal experience how much easier it is to obtain illicit ’street drugs’ than a few tabs of FDA approved Adderall only strenghthens the need for such a debate to arrive stateside too.

via Reuters