Scientists pop Ritalin to sharpen thinking

From the Calgary Herald:
One-fifth of the world's professional scientists and university science students have used "cognition-enhancing" prescription drugs to help them concentrate, according to a survey by a top research journal.

The most common of these "steroids for scientists" is the amphetamine Ritalin, says the journal Nature.

And while some officials at Canadian universities expressed surprise at the finding, others said the practice is well-known, usually using drugs to keep awake and alert.

A student diagnosed with attention deficit disorder, which is treated with Ritalin, can become very popular at exam time or when essays and lab work are due, they say. ...more

New safety warnings regarding ALERTEC® * (modafinil) and serious rash, allergic reactions, and mental problems

From Health Canada:
Alertec® (modafinil) is used to relieve excessive sleepiness due to medical conditions called narcolepsy (uncontrollable, brief episodes of daytime sleepiness), obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (breathing abnormalities during sleep) and shift work sleep disorder. Shire Canada Inc., in consultation with Health Canada, would like to inform you of new safety information regarding Alertec®:
For Health Professionals
For the Public