Adderall Addiction Signs and Symptoms

Is Adderall Safe?

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Adderall Signs and Symptoms

Adderall is a stimulant that is often prescribed to treat ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Adderall can be used to help increase ability to pay attention, stay focused on an activity, or control impulses. It is also prescribed for people who struggle with Narcolepsy to help them stay awake during the day.

Adderall does come with some risk for abuse and addiction. Adderall is well-known amongst college students as an “upper-drug” that’s taken at parties or to help stay up all night studying. This is a common misuse of this drug and taking it in large quantities over a long period of time can lead to addiction.

Adderall Signs to Look For

Adderall is commonly used by students and young professionals. It can be difficult to detect when someone is abusing this drug due to the fact it is often used to improve alertness and productivity. Some common signs that someone may be struggling with an addiction include:

Frequently taking pills

High amounts of energy or excitability

Impulsive behavior

Overworking

Social withdrawal

Loss of appetite

Extreme weight loss

Relationship problems

Impacts of Adderall Use

Immediate Impacts

Adderall is often prescribed to treat ADHD. It affects centers in the brain that increase alertness, attention, and energy levels. Even when taken as prescribed, Adderall can still have some negative effects in the short term such as:

Loss of appetite

Irritability

Dry mouth

Restlessness

Heart palpitations

Potentially dangerous cardiac issues

Long Term Impacts

Long-term use or abuse of Adderall can cause many negative effects. It can cause erratic behavior or paranoia, specifically when taken recreationally or in high doses.
Appetite suppression is a common side effect of Adderall. When taken over a long period of time it can lead to extreme weight loss and malnutrition. Poor nutrition can also lead to vitamin deficiencies which can cause muscle weakness, fatigue, and other health issues.

It may also cause cardiac problems such as high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and an increased risk of heart attack. All of these issues can be very serious. Taking Adderall over a long period of time may lead to forming a dependence on a drug. If you feel like you’re struggling with an addiction, speaking to a medical professional, or contacting a treatment center is a good first step.

Adderall’s Effect on Your Brain

Adderall increases the amounts of several neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. When taken over a long period of time this can make it more difficult to experience pleasure when the drug isn’t present. This can lead to taking Adderall in a binge-like or habitual pattern that leads to forming a dependence.

Who is Likely to Misuse Adderall?

Adderall is commonly misused or abused by college students or young professionals who are trying to stay awake and increase productivity. It is known as an “upper-drug” by many college students that is used to stay up all night studying.

Some people also abuse the drug for a mood boost or increased energy throughout the day. These effects can lead to repeated misuse of the drug over a long period of time. This can lead to dependence and addiction as well as the many other health issues associated with long-term abuse of Adderall.

Learn to Spot the Adderall Signs

Adderall is a stimulant that is often prescribed to treat ADHD. It has many useful effects including increased alertness, attention, and energy levels. Adderall should only be taken under strict guidelines from a medical professional. It can be difficult to spot addiction, but some signs can help you tell that someone is struggling. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction, there are resources available.

Resources

  1. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-63163/adderall-oral/details
  2. https://drugabuse.com/adderall/effects-use/
  3. https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

If you or a loved one needs help, please call us at
623-523-4748 and our team at Blueprints For Recovery in Arizona will help.

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