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Written by Drew Redd. Mina Draskovic, B.Psy., reviewed this content for accuracy.
Adderall addiction is a growing concern. Originally prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Adderall has become a popular “study drug” and performance enhancer among students and young professionals.
What starts as a way to boost focus can quickly spiral into dependence. A 2011 study found that 40% of college students with ADHD misused Adderall, often using too much or mixing with other substances.
If you’re struggling with dependence on this stimulant medication, our Adderall addiction treatment program offers the specialized support you need to regain control of your life.
Adderall is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as stimulants, specifically amphetamines. It is a brand name for a combination drug that contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. These active ingredients work together to stimulate the central nervous system.
Adderall is primarily prescribed for two main conditions:
Adderall works by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
Prescription stimulants are carefully controlled because of their high potential for abuse and addiction. When used as prescribed, they can significantly improve quality of life. Their stimulating effects also make them targets for misuse, leading many to develop stimulant use disorder.
Adderall‘s ability to increase focus and energy makes it appealing for non-medical use. Regular abuse can lead to physical dependence, severe health problems, and disrupted daily functioning.
If you suspect someone you care about is exhibiting these signs, encourage them to seek professional help. Ardu Recovery Center offers medical assistance and addresses the underlying causes of Adderall addiction. We will guide you through your rehabilitation journey to overcome stimulant dependence in the safest and most effective way possible.
Adderall addiction can have severe and wide-ranging negative effects on physical and mental health. It provides short-term benefits for people with ADHD and narcolepsy, but long-term misuse leads to significant brain changes and bodily harm.
Adderall affects the brain in several ways:
Because of the way Adderall and other stimulants impact the brain, addiction is viewed as a brain disease. At Ardu, we specialize in safe and effective Adderall detox. Our experienced medical team provides 24/7 care to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure your comfort throughout the process. We offer a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of Adderall addiction, setting you on the path to lasting recovery.
There is no specific age limit for Adderall use because this stimulant drug can be prescribed to both children and adults. The FDA has approved Adderall for children as young as 3 years old to treat ADHD. This might seem surprisingly young, but for some kids, early intervention is crucial in managing severe symptoms.
For adults, there’s no upper age limit on Adderall prescriptions. Doctors do tend to be more cautious when prescribing to older adults because of the increased risk of cardiovascular problems that come with age, which Adderall’s stimulant effects could potentially exacerbate.
Age plays a big role in dosing too. Children usually start with lower doses than adults, and doctors will carefully adjust the amount based on the patient’s age and response to the medication.
Regardless of age or use, Adderall is only legally available with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. This strict control ensures the drug is used safely and appropriately, minimizing the risks of misuse or addiction.
Adderall addiction may have benefits for focus or energy levels, but if misused, it can take a serious toll on your overall health. A group of American researchers suggested that college students who misuse Adderall might be doing so because they believe it will dramatically improve their academic performance. The actual benefits for thinking and academic work appear to be much smaller than the noticeable mood and energy boost the drug provides.
Let’s take a closer look at the health effects that often come with Adderall addiction, and why they’re a cause for concern.
Adderall increases heart rate and blood pressure, putting extra strain on the cardiovascular system. Long-term abuse leads to heart palpitations, arrhythmias, and an increased risk of heart attack. In severe cases, it may cause cardiomyopathy, a weakening of the heart muscle. Chronic high blood pressure from Adderall abuse also damages blood vessels and increases the risk of stroke.
Adderall’s stimulant effects disrupt normal sleep patterns. Many people who struggle with Adderall addiction also battle insomnia or irregular sleep-wake cycles. Chronic sleep deprivation results in impaired cognitive function and mood disturbances.
According to a 2012 study, Adderall can significantly increase sleep onset latency, making it difficult for users to fall asleep at night. Some users may experience intense, vivid dreams or nightmares when they do sleep. Adderall may also reduce overall sleep duration and quality, potentially leading to daytime fatigue and other negative effects associated with sleep deprivation.
Although Adderall is prescribed to improve focus and attention, long-term abuse can paradoxically lead to cognitive decline. Those addicted to Adderall may experience difficulties with memory, concentration, and decision-making, especially when not under the influence of the drug. Chronic abuse can affect brain plasticity, leading to long-lasting changes in cognitive function. Some users report a feeling of mental fog or inability to think clearly without the drug.
Adderall abuse causes mood swings, ranging from euphoria to irritability and aggression. As the brain becomes dependent on the drug, users may experience emotional instability and difficulty regulating their moods without it. The more they use Adderall, the more persistent feelings of agitation, restlessness, and emotional numbness. These mood disturbances impact personal relationships and overall quality of life.
High doses or prolonged use of Adderall can induce psychotic symptoms in some people. This may include hallucinations, delusions, and paranoid thinking.
Stimulant medications such as Adderall can increase levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain, and over time lead to the phenomenon of “sensitization.” Amphetamines can mimic psychosis, especially when taken recreationally above the approved therapeutic doses. (Desai, et. al.)
Desai, et. al. also point to a growing concern about the risk of developing persistent psychosis from stimulant use disorder, particularly in people who may be genetically susceptible or have pre-existing mental health conditions. Stimulant-induced psychosis can be difficult to distinguish from other psychotic disorders and may persist even after discontinuing the drug.
Adderall suppresses appetite. This can cause weight loss and potential malnutrition in people who misuse the drug. Users may skip meals or fail to maintain a balanced diet, resulting in vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Rapid weight loss can also lead to muscle wasting and weakened immune function. In severe cases, malnutrition from Adderall abuse can cause hair loss, brittle nails, and increased susceptibility to illness.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University shed light on the use of prescription drugs such as Adderall for losing weight among college students. About 4% of students in this study who reported misusing the drug had more body image issues and disordered eating behaviors. This misuse of stimulants for weight loss seems to be linked to other unhealthy behaviors and attitudes about food and body image.
The metabolism and excretion of Adderall put additional stress on the liver and kidneys. Over time, this can lead to organ damage or dysfunction. A 2013 case study examined several negative effects of Adderall addiction on the liver:
Kidney problems can manifest as changes in urination patterns, fluid retention, or in severe cases, kidney failure.
Adderall can cause a range of gastrointestinal problems, including nausea, constipation, and abdominal pain. The drug’s appetite-suppressing effects lead to irregular eating patterns, which give rise to digestive issues. Some users experience dry mouth, which can increase the risk of dental problems over time. In severe cases, prolonged Adderall abuse may lead to ulcers or other gastrointestinal complications.
The list of negative health effects of Adderall addiction is too long. The most dangerous and devastating effect is the risk of overdose and death.
It is possible to overdose on Adderall. This occurs when someone takes too much of the medication, either accidentally or intentionally. This risk increases significantly when the drug is misused, taken in ways other than prescribed, or mixed with other stimulant substances or alcohol.
Overdose symptoms include:
If you suspect an Adderall overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Overdoses can be life-threatening and may lead to heart attack, stroke, or organ failure if not treated promptly.
Adderall addiction is a complex and challenging condition that affects not only your physical health but also your mental well-being and overall quality of life. At Ardu Recovery Center, we understand the intricate nature of stimulant addiction and offer a compassionate, personalized approach to help you reclaim your life.
Our expert team recognizes that Adderall addiction often stems from underlying issues or co-occurring disorders. We don’t just treat the symptoms; we dig deep to address the root causes of your addiction. Whether you’re struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, our dual diagnosis program ensures that all aspects of your health are treated simultaneously.
Adderall withdrawal can be an intimidating prospect. At Ardu, you’re never alone in this journey. Our medically supervised detox program provides 24/7 care and support, carefully tapering your dosage to minimize discomfort and ensure your safety throughout the process.
Our treatment goes beyond detox, incorporating evidence-based therapies, holistic approaches to rehab, and life skills training tailored to your unique needs. Our serene, supportive environment allows you to focus on healing without the distractions and triggers of everyday life.
Choosing to seek help is brave, and at Ardu, we honor that courage with high-quality, non-judgmental care.
“I am so blessed to have the opportunity to be part of Ardu, I have experienced a couple different treatment centers and this one is full of love, compassion and kindness. It truly has been helping.”
Our Adderall detox program safely and comfortably guides you through the challenging process of discontinuing stimulant use. Our goal is to minimize withdrawal symptoms, manage physical and psychological effects, and prepare you for the next steps in your recovery journey.
We offer a comprehensive approach that addresses both the immediate needs of detoxification and the foundations for long-term healing. We include both medical treatments and holistic detox services to ensure a safe, comfortable withdrawal process.
Our range of services during Adderall detox includes:
Each of these therapies plays a crucial role in supporting your body and mind as you navigate the detox process, setting a strong foundation for your ongoing recovery from Adderall addiction.
Adderall addiction requires a comprehensive, personalized approach. Our state-of-the-art facility offers a range of evidence-based treatments and supportive therapies designed to address the unique challenges of stimulant addiction and other forms of substance use disorder (SUD).
Here’s an in-depth look at our treatment options for Adderall addiction:
Reach out to us today to learn more about our personalized treatment options and let us help you build a brighter tomorrow.
Going to an Adderall detox center is the first step toward recovery and breaking free from this powerful stimulant addiction. Our facilities not only offer detox but also provide comprehensive Adderall addiction treatment plans that support your long-term recovery journey.
At Ardu, we welcome anyone who seeks help to overcome their Adderall addiction. Our dedicated team of addiction specialists and healthcare professionals is here to guide and support you throughout your treatment process, laying the foundation for lasting sobriety and reducing the risk of relapse.
To enroll in an Ardu Adderall detox program, contact Ardu Recovery Center online or via phone at (801-810-1234). Our treatment center providers will work closely with you to develop a personalized recovery plan that meets your unique needs during the detox process and beyond.
Visit our admissions process page and reach out to our admissions team for more information on how to get started.
Drew Redd is the executive director of Ardu Recovery Center and is dedicated to empowering people on their journey to sobriety.
Adderall use without ADHD often leads to misuse of prescription stimulants and potential addiction. This potent stimulant increases levels of dopamine, causing euphoric effects and unusual excitability. Short-term effects may include increased focus and energy, but also anxiety, irregular heartbeat, and sleep disturbances.
Long-term misuse can result in mental disorders, cardiovascular issues, and physiological dependence. Adderall is a controlled substance, and using it without a prescription from a mental health professional is illegal.
Adderall is not an antidepressant. It’s classified as a nervous system stimulant primarily used in ADHD treatment programs. While some might experience mood elevation because of increased dopamine levels, this is not its intended purpose. Antidepressants work differently, typically targeting serotonin levels. Adderall affects dopamine and norepinephrine, impacting focus and attention.
In some cases, medical professionals might prescribe Adderall off-label alongside antidepressants for treatment-resistant depression or bipolar disorder, but this is not common practice. Such use should only occur under close supervision in a treatment facility due to potential risks and interactions with other medications.
Both Ritalin and Adderall are stimulant medications used in ADHD treatment programs. Their safety profiles are similar, and neither can be definitively labeled safer. The choice often depends on individual factors and how a person responds to the medication. Adderall (a combination of amphetamine salts) and Ritalin (methylphenidate) work slightly differently, potentially resulting in varied effectiveness and adverse effects. Both carry risks of addiction and cardiovascular issues when misused.
The safest approach is using these medications only as prescribed by medical professionals who can monitor for adverse effects and adjust treatment. Regular check-ins with a mental health professional are important for managing potential risks and ensuring the treatment program remains effective.
As a stimulant, Adderall can provide a sensation of increased energy. As a potent stimulant, it increases dopamine concentrations in the brain, leading to feelings of alertness and wakefulness. This isn’t new energy but rather a redistribution of your body’s resources. Many experience a “crash” when the medication wears off, which can contribute to the cycle of physiological dependence.
The energy boost can be particularly noticeable in people with ADHD. It helps them focus their existing energy more effectively. For those without ADHD, the boost might feel more intense but comes with an increased risk of dangerous side effects and the potential for substance abuse.
Adderall’s impact on memory is complex. In the short term, it increases focus and attention, improving certain aspects of memory, especially in those with ADHD. Long-term use or misuse can have negative effects on brain chemistry and structure.
Chronic misuse may lead to cognitive decline, impacting memory formation and retrieval. The sleep disturbances often associated with Adderall use indirectly affect memory because proper sleep is crucial for cognitive function. Some users report experiencing “brain fog” when they stop taking the medication, which can temporarily impact memory.
Adderall can impact relationships in many negative ways. For those with ADHD using it as prescribed, it may improve relationships by enhancing focus and reducing impulsive behaviors. For anyone who’s misusing or addicted to it, Adderall leads to social withdrawal, secretive behavior, and mood swings.
The drug’s potential negative effects on libido and physiological dependence can strain intimate relationships. Misuse of prescription stimulants often leads to erratic behavior and neglect of social obligations. The “crash” when the medication wears off can cause irritability and conflict.
In severe cases, addiction to stimulants can completely derail relationships, necessitating intervention and potentially inpatient treatment or outpatient rehab to address the issue.
To determine if you need Adderall, consult medical professionals such as psychiatrists or mental health specialists. They will conduct a thorough evaluation, including reviewing your medical history and assessing for mental disorders. Signs that you might benefit from Adderall include persistent difficulties with focus, organization, and completing daily activities, especially if these issues significantly impact your work or personal life. Adderall is a potent stimulant with potential for misuse. If prescribed, your treatment program should be closely monitored by healthcare providers to ensure effectiveness and manage any side effects.
Adderall can indeed affect emotions, but the impact is different for everyone. Some users report improved emotional regulation when taking Adderall as prescribed for ADHD. Others may experience increased emotional lability, including unusual excitability, anxiety, or even symptoms resembling bipolar disorder.
The medication can cause mood swings, especially as it wears off, leading to a phenomenon known as “Adderall crash.” Long-term use might affect overall emotional stability. In some cases, Adderall use can exacerbate underlying mental disorders or lead to the development of new mental health issues.
Sepúlveda, D. R., Thomas, L. M., McCabe, S. E., Cranford, J. A., Boyd, C. J., & Teter, C. J. (2011). Misuse of Prescribed Stimulant Medication for ADHD and Associated Patterns of Substance Use: Preliminary Analysis Among College Students. Journal of Pharmacy Practice. https://doi.org/10.1177/0897190011426558
Berman, S. M., Kuczenski, R., McCracken, J. T., & London, E. D. (2009). Potential Adverse Effects of Amphetamine Treatment on Brain and Behavior: A Review. Molecular Psychiatry, 14(2), 123. https://doi.org/10.1038/mp.2008.90
Weyandt, L. L., White, T. L., Gudmundsdottir, B. G., Nitenson, A. Z., Rathkey, E. S., De Leon, K. A., & Bjorn, S. A. (2018). Neurocognitive, Autonomic, and Mood Effects of Adderall: A Pilot Study of Healthy College Students. Pharmacy: Journal of Pharmacy Education and Practice, 6(3). https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy6030058
Stein, M. A., Weiss, M., & Hlavaty, L. (2012). ADHD Treatments, Sleep, and Sleep Problems: Complex Associations. Neurotherapeutics, 9(3), 509-517. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-012-0130-0
Desai, S., Santos, E. L., Toma, A. E., Henriquez, A. A., & Anwar, A. (2022). Adderall-Induced Persistent Psychotic Disorder Managed With Long-Acting Injectable Haloperidol Decanoate. Cureus, 14(7). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.27273
Jeffers, A. J., & Benotsch, E. G. (2014). Non-medical use of prescription stimulants for weight loss, disordered eating, and body image. Eating Behaviors, 15(3), 414-418. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eatbeh.2014.04.019
Vanga, R. R., Bal, B., & Olden, K. W. (2013). Adderall Induced Acute Liver Injury: A Rare Case and Review of the Literature. Case Reports in Gastrointestinal Medicine, 2013. https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/902892
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