Study: “Hyperactivity” Medications May Improve Driving Skills

3rd January 2025

1 minute read

Study: "Hyperactivity" Medications May Improve Driving Skills

Researchers have revealed that low doses of a medication used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) could help individuals focus during long-distance driving, according to Science Alert.

The researchers stated that up to 90% of people taking medications for ADHD, commonly sold under the trade name Ritalin, consider driving without these medications comparable to driving without glasses.

The researchers from Swinburne University in Australia were interested in the risks and benefits of methylphenidate on driving performance, especially in individuals who do not have ADHD.

Adults with ADHD are more prone to road accidents, vehicle-related injuries, traffic violations, and sudden braking incidents. It is well-known that taking these medications improves their driving performance, which may contribute to the idea that ADHD medications can add years to the lives of some individuals.

However, many individuals take ADHD medications without a prescription, particularly those tasked with long and monotonous drives.

This study involved 25 drivers with sound mental and physical health, without an ADHD diagnosis, to explore the potential effects of the medication on their driving performance.

The researchers concluded that “there is a clear need for further research in this field, especially studies aimed at identifying the most noticeable changes in eye behavior caused by methylphenidate and other psychostimulants.”