Throughout history, humans have resorted to the use of psychoactive substances for various purposes. Psychoactive drugs work on the brain, modifying its operation and changing mood, behavior and consciousness, which may lead to a state of dependence. Among these substances are licit drugs (alcohol and tobacco), illicit drugs (marijuana, cocaine, crack and others) and psychoactive drugs (tranquilizers, sedatives and strong analgesics). 1 Generations of students have used brain stimulants, food supplements, drugs subject to medical prescription, amphetamines and energy drinks in order to enhance their mental faculties, namely memory, concentration, reasoning and language, which are inherent to studying and academic development. 2-4 The main substances used for this purpose are caffeine, methylphenidate (MPH), modafinil, piracetam, energy drinks and amphetamines. Although the specific action mechanisms may vary, psychostimulants usually work directly or indirectly through dopamine 5,6 , motivation, attention and excitement. 7 MPH (also known as Ritalin™) and dextroamphetamine (d-AMP) are the most commonly used non-medical substances, although other amphetamine formulations have also been used. However, these substances, which belong to the class of amphetamines, present significant risk of dependence. 8 Among students using methylphenidate, most of them have used it in highly stressful periods of academic studies. 9 Thus, studies have estimated that 5% to 35% of university students use these drugs to improve their academic performance, stimulate cognitive function and decrease physical and mental fatigue. 2,10