Adderall Side Effects: Misuse and Addiction

Adderall, a prescription medication, treats ADHD and narcolepsy 1-a, neurological conditions marked by excessive sleepiness during the day and uncontrollable episodes in a deep sleep. 2 Adderall can be abused and misused.

Adderall, a prescription medication, treats ADHD and narcolepsy 1-a, neurological conditions marked by excessive sleepiness during the day and uncontrollable episodes in a deep sleep. 2 Adderall can be abused and misused.

Over 4.6 million people have abused prescription amphetamines, including Adderall, in the last year. Most prescription amphetamine users are young adults (18 to 25 years old) who use the products for non-medical purposes.

This article will explain how Adderall is used, the dangers of its misuse, its side effects, and how to treat Adderall dependence.

What is Adderall?

Adderall is considered a Schedule II drug by the federal government.3 It's a combination dextroamphetamine/amphetamine product that increases dopamine and norepinephrine (neurotransmitters) in the brain, increasing energy and sharper focus.1

It treats the symptoms of disorganization and difficulty focusing, making completing schoolwork or other responsibilities difficult. 4

Adderall can be helpful to those with ADHD or narcolepsy. However, it's also misused. One study found that over half of adults who misused Adderall in the past did so to help them stay alert or to help them concentrate. Adderall abuse was also common for those who wanted to improve their study skills. 4

A recent study in Pharmacology indicates that the drug has little effect on neurocognitive function in college students without ADHD. 5

Some people abuse Adderall by snorting or injecting it or taking high doses. A person can develop a tolerance for Adderall after frequent use or prolonged use. This causes them to take a higher dosage or to use the drug more often to achieve the same effects. It can lead to dependence and a stimulant-use disorder.

Adderall abuse can lead to serious health problems. 1

Adderall Side effects

Even when Adderall is prescribed by a doctor and taken as directed, side effects can occur. Adderall side effects include: 6

  • Agitation.
  • Headaches.
  • Stomachache.
  • Nervousness.
  • Sleeping problems.
  • Reduced appetite
  • Dry Mouth
  • Constipation.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Nausea/vomiting.
  • Weight loss.
  • Grinding teeth

Adderall and Other Risks

Adderall can have several side effects, including some that are dangerous. These include effects on the cardiovascular system.

Sudden Death from Heart Attack or Stroke has occurred in adults taking stimulant drugs. The risk is greater for those who already have heart disease.

Adderall misuse or abuse can also cause serious health problems.

  • Verbal or motor tics.
  • In the hands or feet, unpleasant or abnormal sensations--including pain, numbness, burning, or tingling.
  • Seizures.
  • Psychosis.
  • Depression and manic episodes.
  • Dependence on the drug increases.

Adderall Long-Term Effects

Repeated use can lead to an increased tolerance.

Adderall is a stimulant that can be taken in larger doses or more frequently to achieve the desired effects. This could lead to addiction and problematic use of Adderall.

Have you lost control? Adderall is not for you. Our Mississippi rehab detox facility is dedicated to your recovery. Find out more about Adderall Treatment for addiction Treatment OptionsAdderall Overdose.

Adderall is a stimulant drug that can be overdosed and cause several potentially dangerous or alarming symptoms.

  • Pupil dilation.
  • Restlessness and tremors.
  • Anger and aggressive or combative behavior.
  • Rapid breathing
  • Overactive or uncontrollable reflexes.
  • Hallucinations.
  • Panic attacks and severe anxiety.
  • Paranoia.
  • Muscle weakness, movement disorders.
  • Seizures.

Overdoses are medical emergencies that require immediate medical attention.

Adderall Addiction

Some people who abuse drugs will develop an addiction, but others are at risk of severe health problems, including permanent ones, and overdose.

Adderall abuse is diagnosed as a stimulant disorder if the user displays at least two symptoms over 12 months. The user: 8

  • Adderall is taken in more significant amounts over an extended period than intended.
  • Adderall is a drug that can be addictive.
  • Spends much time taking Adderall to obtain, use or recover from.
  • Craves Adderall
  • We are constantly using, leading to a failure of significant roles at work, school, or home.
  • He continues to use Adderall despite experiencing interpersonal issues exacerbated or caused by Adderall's effects.
  • Adderall users may have to give up social, occupational, or recreational activities.
  • Adderall should not be used in physically dangerous situations.
  • Continues to use Adderall even though you know it is likely to cause or exacerbate a persistent, recurrent, or severe physical or mental problem.
  • Adderall tolerance is the result of needing more stimulants to get the desired effects or a reduced effect from the same dose.
  • Adderall withdrawal symptoms include fatigue, unpleasant dreams, insomnia, or increased appetite.

Adderall Addiction Treatment

A stimulant use disorder can be challenging to recover from and may require the help of a medical professional.

We offer a variety of addiction treatments at Oxford Treatment Center. Our treatment is tailored to each patient's needs.

Residential treatment includes a safe environment, medical care, and structured 24-hour care. It also offers a variety of therapeutic interventions. However, patients do not have to stay on site.

today if you or someone close to you is suffering from addiction and you are ready to begin the rehab admittance process. Our admissions navigators can answer all your questions regarding how much addiction treatment costs and confirm your insurance coverage for drug rehab.

Do not let addiction's devastating effects continue. We are ready to provide you with the help you need.

Treatments for Stimulant Addiction

Two approaches to behavioral treatment are recommended for stimulant abuse disorder.

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy can help you identify the problematic behavior that led you to misuse Adderall. The therapists then teach you new ways to correct these behaviors in different settings. CBT teaches you to predict situations that may cause problems in your recovery and how to deal with them.
  • Contingency Management (CM) provides rewards, such as vouchers or cash, for events or things promoting a drug-free lifestyle.

 


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