Reliable data to quantify how many American workers misuse stimulants does not exist, several experts said.<\/p>\n
But in interviews, dozens of people in a wide spectrum of professions said they and co-workers misused stimulants like Adderall, Vyvanse and Concerta to improve work performance. Most spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of losing their jobs or access to the medication.<\/p>\n
Doctors and medical ethicists expressed concern for misusers\u2019 health, as stimulants can cause anxiety, addiction and hallucinations when taken in high doses. But they also worried about added pressure in the workplace \u201d\u201d where the use by some pressures more to join the trend.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou\u2019d see addiction in students, but it was pretty rare to see it in an adult,\u201d\u009d said Dr. Kimberly Dennis, the medical director of Timberline Knolls, a substance-abuse treatment facility for women outside Chicago.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are definitely seeing more than one year ago, more than two years ago, especially in the age range of 25 to 45,\u201d\u009d she said.<\/p>\n