Smart Pills Are on The Rise. But Is Taking Them Wise?

There’s a product liability lawsuit waiting to happen here:

Studying with diligent friends is fine, says Heidi Lessing, a University of Delaware sophomore.

But after a couple of hours, it’s time for a break, a little gossip: “I want to talk about somebody walking by in the library.”

One of those friends, however, is working too hard for dish — way too hard.

Instead of joining in the gossip, “She says, ‘Be quiet,’ ” Lessing says, astonishment still registering in her voice.

Her friend’s attention is laserlike, totally focused on her texts, even after an evening of study. “We were so bored,” Lessing says. But the friend was still “really into it. It’s annoying.”

The reason for the difference: Her pal is fueled with “smart pills” that increase her concentration, focus, wakefulness and short-term memory.

more at A Dose of Genius