The Side Effects of Adderall Abuse
When a medication is prescribed by a doctor, it can be more difficult to determine if you (or your loved one) are abusing it. We know it can be both confusing and heartbreaking to struggle with substance abuse, so we’ve created this guide to help you get clear on whether you’re using Adderall in a way that’s safe, or in a way that’s addictive. Below, we dive into some of the side effects of Adderall abuse so you can make an informed choice about your Adderall use.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD—but it does come with some side effects. Because of its effects on the brain, Adderall is classified as a stimulant drug, and it works by changing the concentration of your brain’s natural substances. When used correctly, it can help increase your brain’s ability to concentrate, control behavior problems, and stay focused on activities. It also helps in improving listening skills and organizing tasks.
However, despite its benefits, Adderall can be quite addictive—but recognizing if a person is addicted is a challenge. One of the primary reasons why people abuse Adderall is because of its ability to enhance productivity and alertness. Most often, the people who abuse this drug are young professionals and students because stimulants help them focus better. Young professionals enjoy these feelings, as it gives them the drive to pursue their ambitions. But, very few realize the addictive nature of Adderall.
Symptoms of Adderall Abuse
Here are some symptoms of Adderall abuse you can use to tell if you are an Adderall addict:
- Loss of appetite
- Being overly talkative
- Social withdrawal
- Aggression
- Financial troubles
Side Effects of Adderall Abuse
People who abuse Adderall often assume that it is quite safe because of its treatment benefits, and because the drug is prescribed to children. In truth, despite its numerous benefits, the use of Adderall can have severe side effects when used for other purposes. Some of the side effects include liver failure, stroke, and heart attack.
The constant abuse of Adderall also causes your brain’s neurocircuitry to change. This eventually causes a change in your behavior. It can also cause the development of different mental disorders. The changes can also cause an individual to become suicidal after using the Adderall drug for a long time.
Just like any other drug, the methods of use are numerous. Some users use the pill, while others opt to inject themselves. Injecting the drug increases its intensity. And, this can sometimes cause a fatal overdose. Others also choose to snort Adderall. Snorting this drug destroys your sinus and nasal cavities. The longer you snort the Adderall, the more damage you cause to your body.
How to Treat an Adderall Addiction
If you determine you’re abusing this medication, you may need an Adderall addiction treatment center in Houston TX. While there is no sure way to treat this addiction, several options are available. And, one of the best options is seeking treatment from a top-rated rehab center. At Serenity Light Recovery’s Adderall addiction treatment center Houston TX., we offer programs that help our clients recover from addiction. From our treatment center, you can gain access to different services, including:
Attending an addiction treatment center can help you address your addiction problem and the side effects of Adderall abuse. Doctors will assist you to live without the use of this drug. And it can help you find healthy and new coping skills to live your life. Give us a call today at (281) 431-6700 to get started.
FAQs About the Side Effects of Abusing Adderall
Signs of Adderall abuse can vary but commonly include increased heart rate, insomnia, loss of appetite, anxiety, and paranoia. Physical symptoms might also include headaches, dizziness, and dry mouth. Behavioral signs may involve compulsive drug-seeking behaviors, neglecting responsibilities, and social withdrawal.
Abusing Adderall can lead to a range of adverse effects including cardiovascular problems, psychological issues such as anxiety and paranoia, and physical issues like insomnia and weight loss. Long-term abuse can severely impact the central nervous system, leading to permanent changes in brain function.
Withdrawal symptoms from Adderall can include extreme fatigue, depression, changes in heart rhythm, and increased appetite. It’s important to note that withdrawal from prescription stimulants like Adderall can be challenging and may require medical supervision.
Adderall misuse can overstimulate the central nervous system, leading to increased alertness and energy levels in the short term. However, long-term misuse can cause severe damage, including cognitive deficits, mood disorders, and even structural brain changes.
Mixing Adderall with other drugs, especially depressants like alcohol, can be extremely dangerous. This combination can mask the effects of depressants, leading to overconsumption and increased risk of overdose. Additionally, combining stimulants with other drugs can put extra strain on the heart and other organs.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a medical condition characterized by an inability to control the use of a substance despite harmful consequences. Misusing Adderall can quickly lead to SUD, making it difficult to function without the drug and causing significant impairment in daily life.
Adderall is commonly prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy due to its effectiveness in increasing focus and wakefulness. However, prescription drugs like Adderall carry significant risks when misused, including addiction and severe side effects.
Besides Adderall, other commonly prescribed stimulants prone to abuse include Ritalin and Vyvanse. These drugs are effective for their intended uses but carry a high potential for misuse and addiction.
If experiencing Adderall withdrawal, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. Health professionals can provide support and guide the process of safely reducing dependency on the drug. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers resources and support for individuals dealing with prescription stimulant abuse.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Adderall misuse or substance abuse, contacting a treatment center like Serenity Light Recovery is a vital step. Professional treatment programs offer comprehensive support, including detoxification, counseling, and aftercare planning to ensure long-term recovery.
As our CEO, Heather’s main calling is to stay true to the vision of the organization, which is saving lives and striving to redefine statistics by raising the standard of care with evolving treatment methods. Heather studied psychology at LSU and both the main and Clear Lake campuses of the University of Houston, and she is a certified IASIS provider and CPI instructor. She’s been helping people in recovery since 2011. Heather’s motto to live by is “I am not what I’ve done; I am what I’ve overcome.”
