Abstract
Objective: To seek to discuss, through bibliographic research, the main causes, risk factors, associated comorbidities, epidemiology and consequences of the use of methylphenidate in medical students at Brazilian universities. Methods: Twenty articles from the Scielo, MEDLINE and Lilacs databases, in which all were fully revised to compose the data for this research. Results: Methylphenidate is known for its association with the pharmacological treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and it is also used in restricted cases of narcolepsy and obesity. Due to its central nervous system stimulant properties, this drug has been used as an alternative for better academic performance in the face of stress and high demand from universities. Final considerations: Therefore, getting to know better about the use of methylphenidate in this population group will provide educational institutions with relevant information on epidemiology, main causes and risk factors, and may have repercussions on expanding strategies aimed at preventing and supporting the appropriate students.