Adderall Addiction Facts

This article discusses the symptoms and side effects of Adderall abuse and other amphetamines that are not prescribed. Learn about the dangers of addiction, dependence, and withdrawal. Also, learn the best ways to quit using the drug.

Ritalin and Adderall are both effective medications for people with ADHD. Too many people take these addictive and habit-forming prescription drugs without a diagnosis. They put themselves at risk of serious health problems. \r\n

This article focuses on Adderall but applies to all stimulants and amphetamines that are not prescribed. Learn about Adderall overdose and addiction and the symptoms and signs of Adderall use and withdrawal.

span =’\”color primary-two \”‘> Why Does Adderall Help ADHD Patients?

Adderall, one of the nation’s most prescribed drugs, is also the most commonly abused drug.

Adderall, however, is a stimulant that can bring people with ADHD back to baseline stimulation. The drug works by stimulating the part of the mind that controls hyperactivity and impulses and lifts the fog of inattention. It allows those diagnosed with ADHD to slow down and “be still” in their bodies and minds. The brain’s dopamine levels are adjusted to bring greater clarity and focus. It is like wearing prescription glasses for the first.

Adderall and other stimulants will affect people differently. They may experience euphoria, increased energy, and potentially dangerous side effects.

Adderall can also be used to treat narcolepsy. This sleep disorder has no cure. The combination of amphetamines and dextroamphetamine can help narcoleptics feel awake and alert during the day instead of exhausted, tired, and out of it.

Why is Adderall classified as a Schedule II controlled substance?

If you use prescription drugs to treat anything other than medical conditions, then you are playing with fire. You could end up getting addicted or experiencing dangerous side effects.

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People mistakenly believe the drug is safe because doctors prescribe it so often. It’s safe to follow your doctor’s prescription and use it according to the instructions. The risk of substance abuse is high when the medication is taken outside the prescribed guidelines. Adderall, an amphetamine classified by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency as a Schedule II substance, is a drug that is highly addictive or prone to abuse.

Am I Addicted to Adderall?

Yes. Your brain will become accustomed to any addictive substance if you use it enough. Repeated doses of addictive drugs can alter the chemistry in your brain. Over time, a tolerance can develop to the drug, and individuals who use it for non-medical purposes will need to take more and higher doses to achieve the desired effect. The vicious cycle of drug abuse begins with this.

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According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Misuse prescription stimulants may lead to substance use disorders (SUDs), which can take the form of addiction when severe.” “A substance use disorder (SUD) develops when the drug is used in a way that causes problems, such as health issues and failure to fulfill responsibilities at home, work or school.”

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Can Adderall Overdose be Overcome?

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Overdose is rare but possible. It’s very rare for Adderall to cause an overdose, but it does happen. Healthline states that the prescribed dosage ranges from 5 to 60 milligrams daily. The lethal dose for a kilogram of body weight is between 20 and 25 milligrams. To put this in perspective, a deadly dosage for someone weighing 154 pounds would be about 1,400mg. This is 25 times more than the recommended dose.

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It is possible to overdose if you are using prescription amphetamines recreationally and also taking other medications or drugs. The dosage may be less than average. These drugs may interact with antidepressants and other medications such as cold or allergy, blood pressure, and antacids. Some people experiment by mixing “addys’ with alcohol. This can lead to alcohol overdose, coma, or alcohol poisoning.

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Adderall and its side effects send thousands of college students and young adults to the ER annually.

Can Adderall help me get better grades?

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Students in high school and colleges are familiar with tablets and capsules as “study partners” or “smart drugs.” Students use them to stay awake, pull all-nighters, or cram for tests. Adderall remains active in the body for up to twelve hours. According to the National Center for Health Research (NCHR), nearly 75 percent of prescription stimulant abuse occurs on college and high school campuses. Some students are surprised that these study drugs can harm academic performance.

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Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania discovered that those who took the drug did not perform better in cognitive function tests; they just believed they had. Although Adderall can make studying more fun (students are more alert because of a spike in dopamine levels), prescription stimulants for non-medical purposes will not improve academic performance. The American Medical Association, citing the risks of prescription stimulants and the evidence that they do not improve academic performance in healthy individuals, warned against their use.

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How Can You Regain Clarity and Focus Naturally?

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Consider setting aside some time every day to rest and reflect. A good night’s sleep, a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and regular exercise all help to improve focus. Yoga, acupuncture, meditation (like Headspace), time management, cognitive-behavioral therapies, taking frequent breaks, and adopting a stress-reduction method are all other ways to reduce stress. These techniques also don’t have Adderall side effects or the risk of dependency.

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Can Adderall help me lose weight?

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Adderall is not effective and dangerous for weight loss, even though it can increase metabolism and suppress appetite. The drug may initially reduce your need and weight, but this reduction is not sustained over time. Weight loss from this method will return quickly once you stop taking pills. The temporary weight loss doesn’t justify the side effects of Adderall.

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A “speed diet” that promises to help you lose weight can put your heart under dangerous stress. According to Tonic’s health website, “The same molecules which rev up sleepy brain parts also jumpstart your cardiovascular system — sometimes too much.”

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Rarely people taking high doses of the drug without medical supervision are at risk for blood clots and strokes, heart attacks, heart failure, and seizures.

Does Adderall abuse cause personality changes?

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The long-term effects of central nervous stimulants can affect physical and mental health and personality. Here’s what one former Adderall user said about his drug-induced changes in personality.

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“I didn’t like how my personality changed after taking Adderall.” Yes, I was very focused. I lost my empathy, but also. I lost my quirk. I became less tolerant. I was more aggressive, and I wanted to have my way. I may have become more egocentric. The withdrawal could have been more pleasant. Crashing pretty hard. “I noticed everything, and I gave meaning to trivial things.”

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A high dose can have a “zombie” effect, resulting in an expressionless face or flat effect. Another long-term user commented, “I don’t react the same to humor or laugh.” “I feel numb, even though I can zone out.”

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How can I safely withdraw from Adderall without harming myself?

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The withdrawal symptoms of Adderall can be severe, especially for those who try to stop “cold turkey.” It’s for a good reason that doctors start with a small dose when prescribing central nervous system stimulants. Lower dosages are less likely to trigger withdrawal symptoms if the medication is stopped.

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Medical detoxification is advised to manage Adderall withdrawal. The withdrawal symptoms can last from a few weeks to several months. As the body tries to balance itself, the risk of relapse increases during this period. Even with a gradual withdrawal, side effects, and severe symptoms can occur. Professionals should monitor these.

Adderall: Does it help people with ADHD?

Adderall, one of the nation’s most prescribed drugs, is also the most abused drug.

Adderall, however, is a stimulant that can bring people with ADHD back to baseline stimulation. The drug works by stimulating the part of the mind that controls hyperactivity and impulses and lifts the fog of inattention. It allows those diagnosed with ADHD to slow down and “be still” in their bodies and minds. The brain’s dopamine levels are adjusted to bring greater clarity and focus. It is like wearing prescription glasses for the first time.

Adderall and other stimulants will affect people differently. They may experience euphoria, increased energy, and potentially dangerous side effects.

Adderall can also be used to treat narcolepsy. This sleep disorder has no cure. The combination of amphetamines and dextroamphetamine can help narcoleptics feel awake and alert during the day instead of exhausted, tired, and out of it.

Why is Adderall categorized as a Schedule II controlled substance?

You are playing with fire if you use prescription drugs for non-medical purposes. You could become addicted or experience other side effects that can be dangerous.

People mistakenly believe the drug is safe because doctors prescribe it so often. It’s safe to follow your doctor’s prescription and use it according to the instructions. The risk of substance abuse is high when the medication is taken outside the prescribed guidelines. Adderall, an amphetamine classified by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency as a Schedule II substance, is a drug that is highly addictive or prone to abuse.

Adderall addiction: Can it happen?

Yes. Your brain will become accustomed to any addictive substance if you use it enough. Repeated doses of addictive drugs can alter the chemistry in your brain. Over time, tolerance can develop into an importance. Individuals who use it for non-medical purposes must take more and higher doses to achieve the desired effect. The vicious cycle of drug abuse begins with this.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse states, “Misuse of prescription stimulants may lead to substance use disorders (SUD) and in severe cases addiction.” “A substance use disorder (SUD) develops when the drug is used in a way that causes problems, such as health issues and failure to fulfill responsibilities at home, work or school.”

Adderall Overdose: Can it be fatal?

Overdose is rare but possible. It’s scarce for Adderall to cause an overdose, but it does happen. Healthline states that the prescribed dosage ranges from 5 to 60 milligrams daily. The lethal dose for a kilogram of body weight is between 20 and 25 milligrams. To put this in perspective, a deadly dosage for a 154-pound person is 1,400 mg. or 25 times more than the recommended dose.

It is possible to overdose if you are using prescription amphetamines recreationally and also taking other medications or drugs. The dosage may be less than average. These drugs may interact with antidepressants and medications such as cold, allergy, or blood pressure. Some people experiment by mixing “addys’ with alcohol. This can lead to alcohol overdose, coma, or alcohol poisoning.

Adderall and its side effects send thousands of college students and young adults to the ER annually.

Overdose Signs and Symptoms

  • Vomiting
  • Rapid Breathing
  • Stomach pain
  • Headaches
  • Hallucinations
  • Heart attack
  • Fever of 106.7 or more
  • Tremors
  • Death

Can Adderall Help Me Get Better Grades?

Students in high school and colleges are familiar with tablets and capsules as “study partners” or “smart drugs.” Students use them to stay awake, pull all-nighters, or cram for tests. Adderall remains active in the body for up to twelve hours. According to the National Center for Health Research (NCHR), nearly 75 percent of prescription stimulant abuse occurs on college and high school campuses. Some students are surprised that these “study drugs” can harm academic performance.

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania discovered that those who took the drug did not perform better in cognitive function tests; they just believed they had. Although Adderall can make studying more fun (students are more alert because of a spike in dopamine levels), prescription stimulants for non-medical purposes will not improve academic performance. The American Medical Association, citing the risks of prescription stimulants and the evidence that they do not improve academic performance in healthy individuals, warned against their use.

What are some natural ways to regain clarity and focus?

Consider setting aside some time every day to rest and reflect. A good night’s sleep, a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and regular exercise all help to improve focus. Yoga, acupuncture, and meditation (such as the Headspace app) are all effective stress-reduction methods. These techniques also don’t have Adderall side effects or the risk of dependency.

Adderall and weight loss

Adderall is not effective and dangerous for weight loss, even though it can increase metabolism and suppress appetite. The drug may initially reduce your need and weight, but this reduction is not sustained over time. Weight loss from this method will return quickly once you stop taking pills. The temporary weight loss doesn’t justify the side effects of Adderall.

A “speed diet” that promises to help you lose weight can put your heart under dangerous stress. According to Tonic’s health website, “The same molecules which rev up sleepy brain parts also jumpstart your cardiovascular system – sometimes too much.”

Rarely people taking high doses of the drug without medical supervision are at risk for blood clots and strokes, heart attacks, heart failure, and seizures.

Does Adderall abuse cause personality changes?

The long-term effects of central nervous stimulant use can affect physical and mental health and personality. Here’s what one former Adderall user said about his drug-induced changes in personality.

“I didn’t like how my personality changed after taking Adderall.” Yes, I was very focused. I lost my empathy, but also. I lost my quirk. I became less tolerant. I was more aggressive, and I wanted to have my way. I may have become more egocentric. The withdrawal could have been more pleasant. Crashing pretty hard. “I noticed everything, and I gave meaning to trivial things.”

A high dose can have a “zombie” effect, resulting in an expressionless face or flat effect. Another long-time user commented, “I don’t react the same to humor or laugh.” “I feel numb, even though I can zone out.”

How can I safely withdraw from Adderall without harm?

The withdrawal symptoms of Adderall can be severe, especially for those who try to stop “cold turkey.” It’s for a good reason that doctors start with a small dose when prescribing central nervous system stimulants. Lower dosages are less likely to trigger withdrawal symptoms if the medication is stopped.

Medical detoxification is advised to manage Adderall withdrawal. The withdrawal symptoms can last from a few weeks to several months. As the body tries to balance itself, the risk of relapse increases during this period. Even with a gradual withdrawal method, side effects, and severe symptoms can occur. Professionals should monitor these.

What are the symptoms of Adderall withdrawal?

Adderall can cause side effects and withdrawal symptoms.

  • Low energy
  • Focusing problems
  • Dry Mouth
  • Tremors
  • Body Aches
  • Swings in mood
  • Panic attacks/anxiety attacks that are overwhelming
  • Uncontrollable Crying
  • Memory loss in the short-term
  • Cravings intense
  • The following are some of the ways to reduce your risk:

It can be challenging to acknowledge that you have a substance abuse problem and ask for help. Hazelden Betty Ford is here to help you or your loved one if you are struggling with Adderall abuse.

Learn more about our series. This program is perfect for patients, their families, teachers, mental health professionals, and others.