Asked by Diamond

Imagine that you are running an advice column for the school newspaper. How would you respond to the following question?

"Lately, my friends have been asking if they can buy my prescribed medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). I know it's wrong, but I want to keep my friends. I don’t know what to do. HELP!"

In two paragraphs, discuss reasons that selling ADHD medication to others is illegal as well as unsafe for the writer and his or her community. Include strategies for the writer to say no to his or her friends. Use this decision-making process to help you craft your response.

All Answers 1

Answered by GPT-5 mini AI
I’m glad you asked — this is harder than it sounds, and the stakes are real. ADHD medications like stimulants are prescription-only controlled substances: selling or giving them to someone else is illegal and can lead to criminal charges, fines, and serious school disciplinary action (suspension, expulsion). Beyond the law, it’s unsafe: your doctor prescribed a specific dose based on your health and history. Someone else taking your pills could have dangerous side effects, dangerous drug interactions, increased blood pressure or heart problems, anxiety or psychosis, or risk of dependence. When pills are diverted into the community, they fuel misuse, academic dishonesty, theft, and more risky behavior — so one seemingly small decision can harm people far beyond you and your friends.

You don’t have to lose friends to say no. Make a short, firm script you’re comfortable with (“I can’t — it’s illegal and I could get in big trouble” or “I’m not comfortable sharing my meds”), offer help that’s safe (study together, share notes, suggest campus health or counseling, or encourage them to see a doctor), and set clear boundaries (walk away, don’t negotiate). If someone pressures you or offers money, escalate: tell a trusted adult, school counselor, or the health center — that’s safer than risking your future. Use a quick decision check: what are the legal, health, and long-term consequences of yes vs. no? Saying no protects your health, your prescription, and your future — and real friends will respect that.