As the college entrance exam approaches, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) is set to intensify its scrutiny of the misuse of ADHD medications, often referred to as 'study drugs.'
According to the MFDS, from October 19 until the day before the exam on November 18, it will conduct a thorough investigation into the prescription and distribution of methylphenidate, a treatment for ADHD.
Methylphenidate is prescribed under brand names such as Concerta, Medikinet, and Phenid. It regulates the action of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, which are involved in concentration and behavior control. As a controlled substance, methylphenidate should only be used under a doctor's diagnosis and prescription. Misuse can lead to side effects such as insomnia, decreased appetite, headaches, and anxiety, with severe cases potentially resulting in hallucinations or delusions.
The MFDS plans to investigate medical institutions where adolescents have received large prescriptions of methylphenidate, in collaboration with local governments. Key areas of focus will include suspected cases of over-prescription, compliance with reporting obligations for controlled substances, and the consistency between reported data and actual stock levels.
Cases suspected of being used for purposes other than treatment will be referred for investigation if deemed medically unjustifiable after expert review. If violations such as failure to report prescriptions or late reporting are confirmed, the MFDS will request administrative action from the relevant local authorities.
Additionally, the agency will crack down on illegal online sales. Posts advertising methylphenidate as a 'study aid' or 'concentration drug' will be a primary target for inspection. The MFDS previously conducted online crackdowns in May and August, uncovering 1,882 illegal posts.
The prescription volume of methylphenidate has been on the rise. According to the MFDS, the number of prescriptions in the first half of this year reached 58.05 million, a 12.1% increase compared to the same period last year. Among these, prescriptions for individuals under 19 accounted for about half, totaling 28.81 million.
An MFDS official emphasized, 'Purchasing ADHD medications online without a prescription or taking medications prescribed to family or friends is a violation of narcotics laws.'
* This article has been translated by AI.
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