In the past few years academic performance enhancing drugs have been on the rise.

Each year more and more students are prescribed Adderall for the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder, but they are not the only ones using the drug.

According to the GainsvilleSun.com 20 percent of college students have used Adderall without a prescription either to enhance their ability to do school work, or as a recreational drug.

"I don't know many people who haven't used Adderall at least once," said a Sacred Heart junior who wished to remain anonymous. "The fact is, it will keep you up and help you concentrate if you need to get work done."

Adderall may work, even for those without a doctor's prescription, but that does not mean it is safe. When you take a prescription drug that is not recommended by your doctor you take a big risk. There is no way to know how your body will react to the medication.

The drug is prescribed to individuals with both Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The reason they need Adderall is because it stimulates the production of Dopamine and Norepinephrine which improve the ability to focus and pay attention.

"I know a few people who are prescribed Adderall," said Pat Richardson, senior, Ballston Spa, N.Y. "I can always tell whether they have taken it or not, just by watching how they act."

For those without either disorder, the effect of the drug is slightly different. Though it can slightly increase concentration, it mainly causes the user to stay awake for long periods of time. The drug also has some side effects, such as a loss of appetite, insomnia, stomach pains, dehydration and in some cases can even cause heart attacks or strokes.

The recreational use of Adderall has also increased, which is even more dangerous. Students take the drug in order to stay out all night partying. It is exceptionally dangerous when combined with other drugs and alcohol.

When used recreationally, the drug is often snorted which causes a faster and stronger reaction. Adderall is an amphetamine just like cocaine, and when snorted can have similar effects, and it can also be just as dangerous.

The reason Adderall use is so prevalent among college students, is because of its availability. It is rather easy to obtain a prescription, and those students without one can easily find someone who does.

"I usually use Adderall a few times a semester to get big projects done," said a senior who wished to remain anonymous. "I know a bunch of people I can get it from and they usually just give it to me for free."

What students providing the drug to their peers may not realize is that there are severe penalties for distributing Adderall, which is considered to be a Schedule II drug by the Drug Enforcement Agency. Penalties include up to 45 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

"I don't think it's worth the risk," said Robert Kirsch, Senior, Bergenfield, NJ. "I just drink a few cups of coffee and that usually does the trick."