Do you know what Adderall is? Adderall is a type of prescription stimulant that helps to increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the CNS, short for the central nervous system. Due to this fact, Adderall is an addictive prescription drug, and even those strictly following prescribed doses bear a risk of getting addicted to it.
That being said, let’s delve into Adderall addiction, talking about the signs of addiction and more:
What Are The Signs Of Adderall Addiction?
Adderall is a very addictive drug, and those who have abused it in the past may develop an addiction that follows them into the future. The signs of Adderall addiction can vary from person to person, but the most common signs include:
- Increased tolerance, leading to a higher dosage being needed to achieve desired effects
- Weaning off Adderall leading to cravings for the drug
- Needing to feel “normal” leading to cravings for Adderall
- Lack of sufficient nutrients, leading to cravings
- Inability to get through the day without Adderall
- Inability to sleep without taking Adderall
Now, apart from the fact that Adderall helps a person feel good, another reason people get addicted to Adderall is the simple fact that it was prescribed by the doctor. They assume that because of it, they can take it without any danger, but the reality is that going away from the prescription can lead to the path of addiction.
Is There A Difference Between Adderall Dependence And Addiction?
The line between being dependent on a drug and being addicted to it is a very fine one. In fact, many experts believe that if a person is dependent on a drug, he or she is already on the way to becoming addicted.
Adderall dependence can be the result of a number of things, including the following:
- Taking an incorrect dosage of Adderall, taking it for a prolonged period of time, or both
- Taking Adderall on a regular basis
- Taking Adderall in a dose larger than prescribed
Any type of drug addiction, including Adderall, can lead to tolerance and, eventually, dependence. If a person is dependent on Adderall, then he or she may already be addicted.
What Are The Dangers Of Adderall Abuse?
The dangers of Adderall are quite severe, especially when you consider that the effects can be even more intense if Adderall is taken in more than one dose each day.
Individuals who abuse Adderall over an extended period of time can be subject to some of these effects:
- Mood swings
- Severe anxiety attacks
- Memory problems
- Delusional thoughts
- Anorgasmia
- Irritability
- Paranoia
- Loss of appetite
- Heart problems
- Serious skin complications
Adderal has also been known to incite suicidal thoughts and actions, especially in individuals who are already predisposed to wanting to end their life, or in those who suffer from depression and anxiety.
Now, if Adderall is taken in high doses and over a prolonged period of time, the individual may suffer from some of these more serious effects:
- Heart problems, including heart attack, irregular heartbeat, and even death
- Hypertension
- Severe depression
- Serotonin syndrome
- Tolerance leading to more than one dose each day
- Severe anxiety, paranoia, and psychosis
Who Are Common Users Of Adderall?
Adderall is widely used by children and adults who suffer from ADHD and even those who suffer from eating disorders. But users of the prescription drug are not limited to those who suffer from ADHD. Adderall has become a drug of choice for individuals who want to stay alert for an extended period of time. These include athletes, students, professionals, and more.
Unsurprisingly, though, students are the most common users of Adderall, along with professionals. This is because of the demands at school and at work, all of which motivate them to further abuse Adderall in an attempt to stay alert.
How Is Adderall Taken?
Adderall can be taken in a couple of ways. The most common way is to stick it under the tongue (sublingual) and let it dissolve. This way is more effective for someone who has a prescription for the drug. However, it is more common for those who do not have a prescription to crush up the tablets and snort them through the nose.
What Are The Main Effects Of Adderall?
There are various effects of Adderall, but the most common effects include:
- Increased mental focus
- Increased attention span
- Increased physical stamina
- Increased metabolic rate
These effects alone aren’t dangerous. In fact, they’re relied upon by many people to get through their day. However, it is through addiction that problems may occur, especially when overdose comes into play.
Can You Overdose On Adderall?
Yes, you can. If a person is not careful, they can overdose on Adderall, especially if they are taking the drug in large amounts and without a doctor’s supervision. If a person overdoses on Adderall, they may suffer from some of these serious effects:
- Cardiac arrest
- Severe heart problems
- Seizures
- Hypertension
- Tremors and convulsions
- Severe anxiety and paranoia
- Psychosis
If you or someone you love is suffering from an Adderall overdose, you need to seek medical attention immediately!
Can Adderall Addiction Be Treated?
Yes, an Adderall addiction can be treated. There are many methods of treatment available to those with Adderall addiction, including:
- Detox procedures
- Psychotherapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Narcotics Anonymous
- Inpatient care
Each of these methods has specific advantages and disadvantages. If you or someone you love is addicted to Adderall, be sure to talk to your doctor about the best course of action for you.
What Are The Withdrawal Symptoms Of Adderall Addiction?
The withdrawal symptoms of Adderall can vary from person to person. However, some of the most common symptoms of Adderall withdrawal include:
- Mood swings
- Nervousness
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Panic attacks
- Seizures
- Irritability
- Extreme hunger
- Loss of appetite
- Loss of sex drive
Though some of these symptoms may not seem very serious, they can become dangerous if left unchecked. If you’ve made the decision to stop taking Adderall and are experiencing these symptoms, make sure you seek help from your doctor.
What Are Some Alternatives To Adderall?
Adderall is a powerful prescription stimulant, so it is not surprising that there are no alternatives to it. However, other stimulants, sometimes called “study aids,” have been developed for those who must be more alert for long periods of time. These stimulants are known as Ritalin, Concerta, and Vyvanse.
Be sure to talk to your doctor before you make the decision to use one of these alternatives to Adderall.
Conclusion
While Adderall is indeed meant to help individuals who have problems with ADHD, eating, and more overcome their challenges, it is a drug that isn’t to be trifled with.
Adderall is a dangerous drug. But it is not dangerous because it is addictive. No, it is dangerous because of the side effects associated with it. If you’ve been struggling with Adderall addiction, you need to seek help. If you know someone struggling with Adderall, reach out to them and help them find help. Don’t wait around because the longer you wait, the harder the withdrawal symptoms will be, and the more damage will be done to the body. So, look around for help centers today or even consult your doctor about it. That way, you can get the help needed to let you live a life free from the chains of Adderall!
Source: https://www.hazeldenbettyford.org/addiction/adderall-symptoms