The abuse of prescription amphetamine stimulants is a troubling trend, and it has been estimated as many as 2.5 million people between the ages of 18 and 25 have misused these types of drugs, including Adderall.
Commonly prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Adderall causes the brain to overproduce dopamine and other chemicals, In turn, users have increased energy, feel happier, and are more alert.
The stimulant has become especially popular among students, who often pop it to help them focus and concentrate on their studies for long periods of time and therefore, can be a gateway to more harmful substance reliance in the future.
While Adderall may at first glance seem safe, the drug has a dark side for those who become hooked.
One sign you or someone you know may have a problem is a high tolerance to Adderall, which results in the need to take increasingly bigger doses to feel the same effects.
The brain’s chemistry changes with frequent use and becomes dependent on the increased levels of dopamine Adderall helps provide. Irritability, depression and other mood changes are common problems experienced when the drug is taken less or not at all.
Heavy users can also have panic attacks, anxiety, mania, paranoia and psychosis, heart troubles, and strokes, among other troubling problems. Sleep may also start to suffer since the stimulant can cause insomnia and hypersomnia, which can worsen with attempts to kick an Adderall habit.
Walking away from the drug can be especially difficult — and even deadly. Withdrawal symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and cramping.
If you would like to learn more about detox or are ready to begin recovery now, contact one of Pacific Sands Recovery Center’s care coordinators to discuss your options.
