Jameson was a brilliant and passionate engineering freshman in one of Australia’s prestigious universities. Lately, he finds himself struggling to keep up with the demanding pace of undergraduate life. Enter Modafinil, a drug initially approved by the FDA as a treatment for narcolepsy and other sleep disorders in 1998 but now is making waves among college students seeking a cognitive edge in this highly competitive space.
Curious and with a hint of doubt, Jameson gave in to the persuasion of his peers and took the unsuspecting orange pill. To cut it short, what then followed were A+ papers submitted on time, coffee-less reviews, and exam scores that make all-nighters seem worth it.
As the semester went on, he began questioning himself. Was it really his own doing, or was it Modafinil’s enabling?
Jameson was asking the right questions, as the off-brand use of Modafinil emerges, so was the students finding themselves in this entirely new gray area—weighing the nootropics benefits with its possible risks and ethical concerns.
Navigating the Gray Area
- Seeking medical advice. Owing to the original intended use of the drug, consulting medical experts on possible side effects on one’s pre-existing conditions and interactions with current medications are always the recommended course of action.
- Educating oneself. Modafinil, as well as other nootropics, had seen emergence with its use to enhance focus and cognitive function with minimal downsides. Online resources (e.g., scientific research, testimonies) are widely available for one’s readings—make informed decisions.
- Ethical considerations. Ensuring that no other persons’ work is compromised due to directly being affected by the advantage gained with Modafinil is the best thing to do—one could choose a full disclosure if the situation warrants.
- Moderation. Stick with the generally recommended dosage and age of use. Make the most out of its benefits by starting with less, therefore avoiding potential risks.
- Accountability. Modafinil is a common drug used in addressing the symptoms of ADHD, narcolepsy, and other medical conditions. Ensuring accessibility for these people first is the most responsible thing to do.
In the end, Jameson continued the use of Modafinil given the promising gains he personally encountered. Albeit this time, he is better informed and is mindful of his responsibility. With the increasingly demanding professional landscape, the demand for these ‘nootropics’ smart drugs would only get bigger and more complex.