Cognitive enhancement: a brief overview

Abstract

Cognitive enhancement involves the non-medical use of illicit and/or prescription drugs, such as agents prescribed for attention deficit/hyperactive disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, usually in order to stay awake and to counteract fatigue and loss of concentration, generally in the context of high workload and stress. Growing interest in taking prescription stimulant drugs for non-licensed purposes to improve academic, work and sporting performance has raised medical, ethical and regulatory issues.

Keywords: ADHD, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, cognitive enhancement, high workload, narcolepsy, stress