To the Point
Smart Drugs: The Quest for Getting an Edge
Let's face it, who doesn't want to be sharper, more alert, and able to ace anything you want to do without having to get much sleep? Now, in addition to Ritalin and Adderall, there's a new crop of over-the-counter drugs aimed at enhancing brain function, including Provigil and Modafinil.
By Warren Olney • • 32m ListenLet's face it, who doesn't want to be sharper, more alert, and able to ace anything you want to do without having to get much sleep? Now, in addition to Ritalin and Adderall, there's a new crop of over-the-counter drugs aimed at enhancing brain function, including Provigil and Modafinil. Originally a narcolepsy drug Modafanil – or Moda -- is easy to obtain on college campuses now. Entrepreneurs, video gamers, office workers and musicians are taking it to give them an edge in a competitive world. But is it safe? Is this the beginning of a medicalized level doping of our minds? Are smart drugs miracle pills, pathways to addiction or just plain cheating?
