A recent study shows poker players use stimulants to aid in play – is this a surprise?
A study by the College of Pharmacy at Nova Southeastern University in Florida makes a bold claim about poker using drugs during competition – according to their study, 80% of poker players do, indeed, partake.
Among the PEDs (Performance Enhancing Drugs) coffee and energy drinks topped the list – and in fact made up the majority of the “drugs” used – although marijuana, cocaine, and amphetamines were named by some.
Kevin Clauson, an associate professor at the university, said "The use these substances could allow poker players to stay awake longer, as well as focus and concentrate better, which would be a competitive advantage. Stamina is important for any poker player because tournament poker and cash games can go on for many hours."
Players competing in the World Series of Poker and online players from North America, Europe, and Asia were all interviewed, although the majority were from the US and Canada.
With the WSOP going on now it’s pretty easy to see that many players rely on substances to keep their energy up and their minds sharp – from Starbucks cups to plates of French fries.
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