Abstract
Introduction: The aim of this study was to assess for the first time the prevalence and factors
associated with stimulant use exclusively for cognitive enhancement among pupils and
university students in Germany.
Methods: A sample of 1 035 pupils (vocational and grammar schools) in small and big cities
and 512 university students of 3 Departments (Medicine, Pharmacy, Economics) completed
a questionnaire regarding knowledge and use of stimulants for cognitive enhancement
and factors associated with their use.
Results: Lifetime prevalence for use of prescription stimulants (methylphenidate, amphetamines)
for cognitive enhancement in pupils was 1.55% and in students 0.78%. Last-year and
last-month prevalence rates were significantly lower. 2.42% of pupils and 2.93% of
students reported lifetime illicit use of stimulants (amphetamines, cocaine, ecstasy)
for cognitive enhancement with lower last-year and last-month rates. Prevalence was
higher in male pupils, pupils from vocational schools and pupils with bad marks.
Discussion: The illicit use of stimulants for cognitive enhancement is significantly higher than
non-medical use of prescription stimulants among pupils and students. Stimulant use
is determined by gender, school type, and school marks. The potential risks associated
with stimulant use require early awareness and intervention strategies.
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Correspondence
Dr. Dr. A. G. FrankeM.A.
Department of Psychiatry and
Psychotherapy
University Medical Center
Mainz
Untere Zahlbacher Straße 8
55131 Mainz
Germany
Phone: +49/6131/17 2920
Fax: +49/6131/17 6690
Email: afranke@uni-mainz.de
