Cognitive Enhancing Drugs Advantages And Disadvantages

THE USE OF COGNITIVE-ENHANCING DRUGS Until the issue of brain structure, functionality and the criteria for measuring competence are constitutionally determined, there will continue to be divergent views and arguments on the use of cognitive enhancing drugs. What this means is that the challenges posed by scientific findings and the various arguments on the above subject matter need to be confronted with a broader understanding of the root causes. This understanding may require breaking new frontiers not only in human anatomy and physiology but also in socio-economic antecedents. The different schools of thought on advantages and disadvantages on the use of cognitive – enhancing drugs have attracted so much debate with less weighted
Although, Greely et al’s view point could be seen as an extreme one because they see some level of socio and economic value in the use of the drug which to them is seemingly necessary with less weighted emphasis on the possible harmful effect: “Like all new technologies, cognitive enhancement can be used well or poorly. We should welcome new methods of improving our brain function” (Greely et al
It is relatively easy to assume that prolonged use of ADHD drugs will take a toll on the brain as a result of the consequential effect of alteration in brain cells and functions. Edmund Higgins, in he’s article wrote, “With the expanded and extended use of stimulants comes mounting concern that the drugs might take a toll on the brain over the long run” (Pg. 19). This applies to prescription and non-prescription users of ADHD drugs. The growing number of patients (children and adults) does not and should not legitimize or justify any form of prolonged use of ADHD drugs. Rather it should be seen as a challenge to scientists to explore alternative ways in treating the problem with less consequential effect. The issue has taken a new dimension in view of the increasing number of users who do not have a diagnosed attention – deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) problem. This is the category of users prone to abuse and addiction and by extension dangerous to society at