Understanding Adderall Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment

Introduction

Adderall is an amphetamine. It is classified as a Schedule II stimulant, which means it is only available under prescription and works by stimulating the central nervous system. It is mainly used in the treatment of ADHD, especially to treat inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsive symptoms. It works by increasing attention and focus.

However, Adderall like other amphetamines has a high potential for misuse. Students tend to misuse it by taking it to aid studies and improve academic performance, athletes misuse it to improve athletic performance, while others misuse it for experimentation. This can lead to tolerance, dependence, and even the development of a stimulant use disorder.

As per the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS), nearly 5.1 million over the age of 12 years reported abusing amphetamines like Adderall. Moreover, over 116,000 people are admitted to rehab because of misuse of amphetamines like Adderall. Therefore, it becomes important to understand Adderall addiction, its signs and symptoms, as well as its treatment. 

Signs and Symptoms of Adderall Addiction

Adderall, being an amphetamine, is a stimulant. Adderall has a high potential for misuse and can lead to the development of stimulant use disorder. As per the latest edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), DSM-5-TR, the signs of and symptoms of stimulant use disorder like Adderall addiction are as follows:

• Using the stimulant in higher doses and more frequently than intended.

• Persistent cravings and urge to use the stimulant.

• Several attempts to quit the stimulant and being largely unsuccessful.

• Prioritizing stimulant use over other things in life, even when it has adverse impacts on interpersonal and social relationships.

• Consistent use of the stimulant despite being acutely aware of the damage it does to physical and psychological health and well-being.

• Development of tolerance, which means requiring more and more of the stimulant to experience the same effects and feel satisfied.

• Experience withdrawal symptoms during absence of the stimulant.

Moreover, Adderall misuse can lead to –

• Restlessness

• Anxiety

• Hyperactivity

• Decreased appetite

• Tremors

• Dilated pupils

• Sleep difficulties

• Increased blood pressure and heart rate

• Psychosis

• Suicidal and homicidal ideations

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Causes of Adderall Addiction

Adderall is addictive due to the presence of amphetamine compounds. It is generally a prescription medication for ADHD, and when used as per the doctor’s prescription, it is safe. However, as Adderall has a great potential for misuse, it leads to the development of stimulant use disorder.

As Adderall enhances productivity and performance, it is misused by students, athletes, and so on. There is a role of culture to play in this, which emphasizes performance and productivity.

Adderall is also a popular drug for recreation, as it is usually used in parties.

Health Risks and Long-Term Effects

Adderall has many health risks and long-term effects, it can lead to:

• Seizures

• Heart diseases

• Brain damage

• Psychosis

• Stroke

Prolonged and chronic use of Adderall can lead to lethal overdose. In fact, 23% of overdose deaths involve the use of an amphetamine, including Adderall.

Adderall Dependence Vs. Adderall Addiction

Adderall dependence and Adderall addiction are often used interchangeably, however, these are two different conditions. Adderall addiction can involve dependence, however, it is not necessarily the case. Adderall dependence is when the body gets accustomed to having a certain level of Adderall and in case of absence of the stimulant, it can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Meanwhile, Adderall addiction is characterized by cravings, urges, inability to stop Adderall use, high and frequent Adderall use, prioritizing Adderall use over other things in life, and so on.

Can You Get Addicted To Adderall?

Yes, one can get addicted to Adderall. As it is a prescription medication used to treat ADHD and even narcolepsy, when used as per the doctor’s instructions, it is safe and does not lead to addiction. However, due to the presence of amphetamine compounds, it has a high potential for misuse wherein people tend to use it to enhance productivity, performance, and even for experimentation purposes.

As per the information provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, more than 17 million people tend to become addicted to prescription stimulants, including Adderall.

Adderall Overdose

Amphetamine use, including Adderall use, is widespread. Every 1 in 4 overdose deaths are related to stimulants, including Adderall. Adderall overdose, therefore, can be lethal. The usual signs and symptoms of Adderall overdose are:

• Fever

• Vomiting

• Rapid breathing

• Tremors

• Chest pain

• Loss of consciousness

If anybody is experiencing any of these Adderall overdose symptoms, it is vital to contact the nearby healthcare providers or emergency services (like 9-1-1 in the U.S.) immediately.

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Adderall Withdrawal

Adderall leads to physiological dependence, and in the absence of the substance, one can experience Adderall withdrawal symptoms. These are intensely unpleasant, and makes quitting Adderall very difficult.

Adderall withdrawal symptoms are as follows:

• Cravings

• Irritability

• Anxiety

• Low mood

• Sleep difficulties

• Difficulty in focus

• Increased appetite

• Paranoia

• Reduction in overall activities

Adderall withdrawal symptoms can be intensely unpleasant and extreme sometimes. In some cases, these symptoms can give rise to suicidal ideations. Therefore, these symptoms must be attended to immediately.

Why is Adderall commonly prescribed for people with ADHD?

Adderall is the first choice of treatment for ADHD. It improves focus and decreases hyperactivity and other impulsive behaviors that are common in ADHD. As per “A Review of Pharmacological Management of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Behavior,” nearly 75% - 80% of children suffering from ADHD experience improved symptoms after Adderall treatment.

Adderall is also used in the treatment of narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by excessive sleepiness. It works by increasing daytime wakefulness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Adderall have withdrawals?

Yes, Adderall dependence leads to withdrawal symptoms, which must be attended to immediately.

How do you feel when Adderall wears off?

When Adderall wears off, one can feel sluggish and tired.

Can Adderall cause personality changes?

Yes, it is possible that Adderall leads to personality changes, characterized by low mood, irritability, hostility, and so on.

Can Adderall cause anger outbursts?

Yes, Adderall can lead to irritability and anger outbursts.