Uso de metilfenidato entre estudantes de cursos preparatórios para concursos públicos e sua associação com o indicativo de transtorno do déficit de atenção e hiperatividade

Abstract

Methylphenidate is utilized for the treatment of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However, the demand for cognitive enhancement may be contributing to the dissemination of this substance among students. This study aimed to identify prevalence of methylphenidate use among students and investigate if the use of this drug is associated with ADHD indicative. This was a cross-sectional study with 178 students enrolled in preparatory courses for public tenders, in the city of Porto Alegre/RS. Methylphenidate use prevalence and frequency, form of access to the drug and associated factors were obtained with objective questions. ADHD indicative was measured by the Adult Self Report Scale (ASRS-18) and self-report of previous diagnosis. Lifetime methylphenidate use prevalence among the 178 students was 18.5%. The substance was used at least once in the last 30 days by 8.5% of the sample. Previous ADHD diagnosis was referred by 10.7% of the group, while disorder indicative by the ASRS was identified in 19.1% subjects. Individuals with indicative by the ASRS or self-reported previous diagnosis were a total of 24.7%. Indicative by the ASRS combined with self-report of previous ADHD diagnosis was found in 5.1% of students. The medication was obtained with prescription and for ADHD treatment by 30.3% of the individuals. There was statistically significant association between methylphenidate-based medication use and indicative of ADHD. Use of methylphenidate is associated with ADHD indicative. Individuals without clinical justification have already used the substance for cognitive enhancement and there was high prevalence of methylphenidate use among participants.