There was talk today in the paper about how ‘healthy brain’ people are ab/using Ritalin in order to increase their cognitive performance, despite not having ADD, ADHD (conditions for which Ritalin is intended and prescribed).                                                                                                        The argument was that while Ritalin offers its users an edge (i.e. doing better on university entrance exam), this advantage is on par with using private tutors and taking preparatory courses. They argue that taking Ritalin before an exam is no different from eating well or getting enough sleep.                                                                                                        I don’t know about that. While Ritalin apparently does improve focus, it comes with a heavy price: side effects may include headaches, trouble sleeping, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain and shortness of breath.                                                                                                        Let's hope more people realize this and pass on the Ritalin advantage.