Factores asociados y frecuencia del consumo de potenciadores cognitivos en estudiantes de medicina de la Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Azogues – Ecuador, 2024

Abstract

Background: University students in the Medicine program face increasing pressure to excel academically. As a result, many resort to cognitive enhancers to improve their academic performance. Objective: To determine the relationship between associated factors and the frequency of cognitive enhancer use among medical students at Catholic University of Cuenca, Azogues–Ecuador, 2024. Methodology: This quantitative, non-experimental, observational, cross-sectional study with a correlational and prospective scope was conducted at the Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Cuenca, Azogues campus, from March to August 2024. Students over 18 years of age who were formally enrolled were included, while those attending irregularly were excluded. The sample, calculated with a 95% confidence level, comprised 302 students selected through sampling for population proportions. Results: A total of 302 students participated in this study. Most (96.4%) were between 18 and 25 years old, and gender distribution was balanced (52.3% female, 47.7% male). Regarding cognitive enhancer use, 50.7% were aware of these substances, and 62.9% had received recommendations for their consumption. Fifty-seven-point seven percent (57.7%) of students used them regularly to stay awake, and 56.3% perceived an improvement in their academic performance. However, no significant associations were found between usage frequency and variables such as age or gender. Conclusion: The study reveals a high use of cognitive enhancers among medical students, largely motivated by the perceived improvement in academic performance. Keywords: cognitive enhancer, nootropic agents, procognitive agents, medical students