We've all heard of performance-enhancing drugs in sport. From testosterone sources to stimulants, anabolic steroids to Modafinil, "doping" has been widely frowned upon in the world of sports as it not only essentially promotes cheating, but can also be potentially dangerous to one's health. That scenario we all quite have a clear picture of. But in gaming?

Apparently, there seems to be this budding new culture in the gaming world where drugs take up the spotlight. Sure, we all know how tiring games can get, what with all the actions you have to deal with just to win. And it's no secret that there are gamers who do load up on Red Bull or Gatorade, or whatever popular energy drinks loaded with caffeine, sugar and various other stimulants of their choice to keep the adrenaline pumping. But what's been making more noise is the prescriptive drug Ritalin, which gamers use to stave off fatigue.

Ritalin - generic name methylphenidate - is more commonly used as treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), as well as narcolepsy and chronic fatigue syndrome. Yes, it is for calming people down, and helps in the improvement of one's concentration. However, what makes this drug palatable to gamers is that it is actually a stimulant - and a powerful one, at that. In fact, because it is so potent, the US federal government has classified it as a Schedule II narcotic, along with opium, cocaine,
PCP, and Oxycontin. That's some heavy-tripping group!

This is not the first time, though, that Ritalin has been put under scrutiny. Prior to its gala in the gaming domain, the drug was already a popular choice among college students, especially for those late-night cramming sessions, and has earned the nickname "Vitamin R" and "R-ball". Alarm levels have been raised because of the growing trend of over-prescription and abuse of this drug.

I'm not really sure just how effective a deterrent the Schedule II classification is, but the fact is that Ritalin is not the only drug that is gaining popularity among gamers. There are amphetamines, nootropics or "smart drugs", and, if you're on the adventurous side, even an experimental mix of Ecstacy and Viagra will do. Gamers now have become more creative with their mix of uppers, that Marijuana-tripping while gaming can already be considered a classic combo.

Licensed psychologist Dr. Maressa Orzack, founder and coordinator of the Computer Addiction Services Clinic at McLean Hospital in Massachusetts that treat video game addiction, believes that heavy game play can lead to many gamers trying illicit substances to up their performance and stamina for playing. "Amphetamines and methamphetamines are becoming popular; they can certainly help you stay up for long hours and probably help enhance the excitement. A lot of gamers, particularly the addicted ones, try to find ways to avoid sleep and keep their concentration." She goes on to say that while her patients have not told her of Ritalin and amphetamines, she won't be surprised when someone does.