Focusing on the Side Effects of Adderall
Jake had been struggling to stay awake for his classes. It was his first year of college. He was feeling the pressures that came along with juggling multiple priorities at the same time. He was telling one of his friends about his problems one night at the library. Jake’s friend, Shawn, told him about a “medication” that could help him stay awake and focus on the tasks at hand. That was the first time he’d heard of Adderall. From that point on, any time Jake needed to buckle down and study or complete an assignment, he’d turn to Adderall to help him get through it. The problem was Jake didn’t have a prescription for Adderall. He didn’t even need it. He was actually buying the drug from one of his friends a few dorm rooms down from him. Even though there were difficult side effects the drug caused, he continued using it as a crutch. Before he knew it, he’d become dependent on Adderall. Adderall is often referred to as the “study drug” due to its widespread use among students. While it’s common for someone to have a prescription for Adderall, it’s also common for it to be misused. Unfortunately, many look past the dangers this drug poses. Like most medications and drugs, Adderall can also cause side effects for the person using it. Not only are there negative side effects, but addiction is also possible. As Adderall continues to be misused by so many, it’s important to share these facts as a way to deter them, the majority of which are young people, from illegal and dangerous Adderall use. So, let’s take a look at what Adderall is, its side effects, and how to overcome addiction.
A Look at Adderall
Adderall, a stimulant drug prescribed for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (uncontrollable episodes of deep sleep), is quite popular here in the United States. ADHD symptoms include:
- Overactivity
- Difficulty paying attention
- Inability to stop moving
- Problems with organization
- Interrupting people
- Organizational problems
- Constantly moving around
- Unable to stop moving around
Symptoms of narcolepsy are:
- Excessive sleepiness throughout the day
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
- Loss of muscle control
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM), “Adderall is used to treat ADHD in adults and children 3 years of age and older. Adderall XR is used to treat ADHD in adults and children 6 years of age and older. Mydayis is used to treat ADHD in adults and children 13 years of age and older.” “Dextroamphetamine and amphetamine (Adderall) is also used to treat narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep) in adults and children 12 years of age and older. The combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine is in a class of medications called central nervous system stimulants. It works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain.” Adderall increases the activity of dopamine (a feel-good chemical) and norepinephrine (a blood pressure supporter). By consuming Adderall, individuals may feel more energized and have a sense of euphoria (great happiness). Adderall is currently only prescribed to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, which means using it for other purposes, without a prescription, or at a higher dosage than prescribed are all considered misuse. As the “study drug” nickname alludes to, Adderall is typically misused by young people to try to achieve better grades. Older people may misuse it to try to enhance their work performance. It should also be noted that you can develop an addiction to Adderall.
Understanding Adderall Side Effects: A Comprehensive Guide” delves into the world of Adderall, a prescription medication often used to treat ADHD. This guide goes beyond a surface-level examination, offering a thorough exploration of side effects, including common, less common, and severe ones, ensuring that readers are well-informed about what to expect. It also provides valuable insights into Adderall dosages, administration guidelines, and essential precautions to follow for safe usage.
The Side Effects of Adderall
Adderall can cause a variety of side effects. Some may be more serious than others. If you are having any side effects, consult with a doctor. According to the NLM, Adderall can cause:
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Menstrual cramp pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Changes in sex drive
- Weight loss
More serious side effects include:
- Problems speaking
- Numbness in arms or legs
- Weakness in arms or legs
- Teeth grinding
- Depression
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
- Fever
- Sweating
- Irregular heartbeat
- Unexplained wounds
- Swelling of the face, tongue, eyes, or throat
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- Paleness
- Shivering
- Loss of coordination
- Vomiting
- Believing things that aren’t true or real
The NLM also says, “Dextroamphetamine and amphetamine may cause sudden death in children and teenagers, especially children or teenagers with heart defects or serious heart problems. This medication also may cause sudden death, heart attack, or stroke in adults, especially adults with heart defects or serious heart problems. Call your doctor right away if you or your child has any signs of heart problems while taking this medication including: chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting. Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking this medication.” The side effects mentioned above show why misusing Adderall is so dangerous, and why it should only be used under the supervision of a medical professional.
Are You Addicted to Adderall?
Sometimes, addiction can creep up on you. Suddenly, you may realize you have a problem. When it comes to Adderall, there are a few telltale signs to look out for, including:
- Financial problems due to buying Adderall
- Depending on Adderall to complete work
- Difficulties in personal life due to Adderall
- Taking on more work than you can manage
- Taking Adderall without a prescription
Prescription stimulants, such as Adderall, are misused for many reasons. The Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) conducted a survey to take a deeper look at this topic. According to SAMHSA, ”In 2015, the most commonly identified reasons for stimulant misuse among adults who misused stimulants at least once in the past year were to help be alert or stay awake (28.4%), to help concentrate (26.2%), and to help study (22.4%). Unlike pain relievers, tranquilizers, and sedatives, the intended purpose of prescribing stimulants is not always apparent from the name of the category. Many people may be prescribed stimulants to help manage their ADHD symptoms. However, using prescription stimulants without a prescription, using them more often than prescribed, or using them at higher dosages than prescribed still constitutes misuse and can have adverse or unintended consequences.” Life can be stressful, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by those stressors. However, there are healthier ways to manage them.
Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms can show up when you suddenly stop using Adderall. Misusing Adderall can result in the brain relying on the drug to regulate dopamine and norepinephrine. This can cause the brain to have trouble doing that by itself. This can lead to Adderall cravings. Adderall withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
For those who’ve been taking Adderall as prescribed by their doctor, withdrawal symptoms can be kept to a minimum by slowly tapering off the drug under the doctor’s guidance. For those who’ve been misusing Adderall, the withdrawal stage can be managed at a professional detox facility. Detox is typically the first step on one’s road to recovery. Medically supervised detoxes are often considered the safest way to halt a substance use disorder. Through the detox process, medical professionals can monitor progress and vitals, and, if needed, medication can be used to manage Adderall withdrawal symptoms. The detox process will ultimately rid the body of the substance. During the process, clients will typically consume a healthy diet, take vitamins, and rest. Once the detox process has been completed, medical professionals will usually evaluate a client and transition them into therapy.
Warning: Overdose Is Possible
If you believe you or someone you know has overdosed on Adderall, call 911 immediately. Contrary to what some may think, Adderall overdose is very possible. According to the National Institutes of Health, “An overdose occurs when the person uses enough of the drug to produce a life-threatening reaction or death.” Adderall overdose can result in restlessness, fever, tremors, panic, muscle pains and weakness, rapid breathing, or hallucinations. Overdoses can also include heart problems such as an irregular heartbeat or heart attack, blood pressure issues, and seizures.
You Have the Strength to Overcome Adderall Addiction
If Adderall addiction has taken control of your life, do not lose hope. Even if you’ve tried to leave the drug behind and have come up short, that doesn’t mean you should quit trying. Keep going and pushing forward. There is no shame in asking for help. We all need a helping hand at some point in our lives. There is no need to be embarrassed about your situation. Remember, you deserve to live a life free from addiction. Life has its ups and downs. Although you may be in the valley today, that doesn’t mean you can’t begin the climb out tomorrow.
Call Vertava Health – Ohio Today
Here at The Bluffs, we understand your situation is unique, which is why we create treatment plans just for you to address Adderall addiction. We will provide the perfect retreat to get you started on your road to recovery. Our inpatient rehab program will address symptoms of your addiction as well as any unique factors that may affect it. We use evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy to help change thoughts and behaviors that lead to unwanted or unhealthy habits. Take the first step today. To learn more, call (888) 481-7821.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common side effects of Adderall? The side effects of Adderall may vary from person to person. Similar to other drugs, there are common and more serious side effects. These may include:
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Menstrual cramp pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Changes in sex drive
- Weight loss
More serious side effects include:
- Problems speaking
- Numbness in arms or legs
- Weakness in arms or legs
- Teeth grinding
- Depression
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
- Fever
- Sweating
- Irregular heartbeat
- Unexplained wounds
- Swelling of the face, tongue, eyes, or throat
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- Paleness
- Shivering
- Loss of coordination
- Vomiting
- Believing things that aren’t true or real
What does Adderall do to a normal person? Adderall is a drug that is prescribed to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Anyone who does not have one of these conditions, or anyone who does not have a doctor’s prescription for Adderall, is misusing it. That said, Adderall increases the activity of dopamine (a feel-good chemical) and norepinephrine (a blood pressure supporter). By consuming Adderall, individuals may feel more energized and have a sense of euphoria (great happiness). Does Adderall change your personality? In some instances, Adderall can impact your personality. You may notice symptoms of depression, nervousness, or changes in sex drive. If you’re prescribed Adderall, talk to your doctor if you’re having any of these symptoms. In fact, you should consult with a medical professional if you’re having any side effects you’ve noticed. What should I avoid while taking Adderall? By simply talking to your doctor, you can learn what not to do when using Adderall. According to the NLM, providing your doctor with a list of medications and/or supplements you’re already taking, telling them whether you smoke or drink, and telling them about any mental health or substance use disorders you’re battling can help them determine whether or not Adderall is right for you. Remember, it’s important to be honest and upfront with your doctor. They are there to help you.
