Adderall is a prescription medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. When taken orally as prescribed by a doctor, it can be an effective treatment. However, some people misuse Adderall by “boofing” it, or inserting it rectally. This extremely dangerous practice poses severe health risks.
What Is Boofing?
Boofing, also known as plugging, booty bumping, or shelving, refers to the rectal insertion of substances, often as a means to achieve a quick and intense high. It bypasses the digestive system and can result in rapid absorption into the bloodstream. While some people may assume boofing is safer than other methods of misuse, it is actually one of the riskiest ways to abuse drugs.
Boofing Delivers High Doses
One of the primary dangers of boofing Adderall is the high concentration of the drug delivered into the body. The rectal tissues allow for efficient absorption, sending high doses directly into the bloodstream. This greatly amplifies the effects of Adderall but also significantly raises the risk of overdose. Even a small amount of Adderall can lead to overdose when boofed.
Symptoms of an Adderall overdose may include:
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Chest pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tremors or seizures
- Confusion and agitation
- Hallucinations and paranoia
- Abnormally high body temperature
- Loss of consciousness
In severe cases, an Adderall overdose can result in heart attack, stroke, organ damage, coma, or death. The high doses delivered by boofing make a life-threatening overdose much more likely.
Damage to the Rectum and Anus
Inserting Adderall or other substances rectally can seriously injure the delicate tissues of the rectum and anus. The thin, sensitive rectal lining is easily torn, and the sphincter can be damaged. Boofing can cause painful cuts, fissures, inflammation, and bleeding. This damage to the rectal tissue has several dangerous consequences.
Increased Risk of Infection
Injuries to the rectum provide an easy route for harmful bacteria to enter the body. Feces contains many bacteria that can cause serious infections if they get into the bloodstream. Damage from boofing raises the risk of conditions like sepsis, a life-threatening response to infection.
Lasting Impairment of Bowel Function
Repeated damage to the rectum and anus can impair normal bowel function over time. Chronic constipation, fecal incontinence, and hemorrhoids may develop. Scar tissue can narrow the rectum. In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the damage.
Greater Danger of Disease Transmission From Boofing Damage
Injuries from boofing increase the chances of contracting bloodborne illnesses like HIV or hepatitis if equipment is shared. The risk of STI transmission may also be elevated.
Misusing Amphetamines Is Dangerous
Whether boofed, snorted, or taken orally in excessive doses, misusing Adderall and other amphetamines is very risky. Amphetamines are addictive stimulant drugs that strongly impact the central nervous system. Abuse can quickly lead to physical dependence and addiction.
Adverse effects of amphetamine misuse include:
- Anxiety, agitation, and paranoia
- Insomnia and fatigue
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Elevated blood pressure
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Impaired cognition and decision-making
- Aggression and irritability
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
Chronic amphetamine misuse can result in a substance use disorder, along with severe mental and physical health problems. Professional addiction treatment is needed to safely stop use and build a healthy, drug-free life.
Always Use Medications as Prescribed
If you have a prescription for Adderall or any other medication, always use it exactly as instructed by your doctor. Never take higher doses than prescribed or administer it in ways other than directed, such as boofing. Misusing prescription drugs is not only illegal, it is hazardous to your health. The potential consequences are not worth any fleeting high.
If you feel tempted to misuse your medication, talk to your prescribing doctor. They can help you find healthy coping strategies and may adjust your treatment plan if needed. Always be open and honest with your healthcare providers about any substance use.
Seek Help for Addiction
If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to Adderall or other drugs, know that help is available. Substance use disorders are challenging, but recovery is possible with the right treatment and support.
At The Bluffs, we offer compassionate, evidence-based addiction treatment tailored to your individual needs. Our experienced professionals are dedicated to helping you build the healthy coping tools to achieve lasting recovery. We provide a full continuum of care, including detoxification, residential and outpatient treatment, and aftercare planning.
Don’t wait to reach out for the help you need and deserve. Call The Bluffs today at 850-374-5331 to learn more about our programs and take the first step toward freedom from addiction. A healthier, more hopeful future is within reach.