Taking medicine to help concentration in studies

29-10-2009 | IslamWeb

Question:

Is it permissible for one to take medications to assist in concentration for studying? There are some medications perscribed to people with certain disorders, but in some graduate schools it's being used as study aids for difficult exams and concentration. There are minimal side effects if taken correctly and for short periods of time.
Jazzakum Allah Khair Inshallah

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Answer:

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

 

If the student is not in need of using such medicines, then he should not use them because they might lead to some harm. In addition to this, there are many other means which help in concentrating and strengthening the memory, some of which are mentioned in Fatwa 90456.

However, if he needs this medicine and using it does not lead to any harm, then it becomes permissible for him to use it but he should consult the specialists in that field because it is not permissible for a person to use what leads to harm.

Allaah Knows best.