Adderall is a prescription stimulant made up of four amphetamine salts. Typically used to treat disorders such as ADD, ADHD, or narcolepsy, Adderall improves energy and focus while also enhancing mood by stimulating the brain’s dopamine receptors. Because of these desirable side effects, Adderall is listed as being high risk for abuse by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. This drug falls within the top 25 prescribed drugs in the United States with over 25 million active prescriptions in circulation as of 2018.

While Adderall is effective in treating certain disorders, it is highly addictive and poses severe health risks for those who use the prescription drug recreationally. When Adderall is ingested in excess, the cardiovascular system is put under stress as the heart rate and blood pressure increase dramatically. Overdose fatalities are rare when the prescription guidelines are followed and there is medical supervision from the prescribing physician; however, overdose is still possible. As stated by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, overdose can cause seizures, coma, and death due to burst blood vessels in the brain, heart failure, or very high fever.

What are the Side Effects of Adderall?

As a stimulant prescription drug, Adderall produces numerous physical and mental side effects. These side effects include:

Loss of appetite

Increased Focus

Energy

Agitation

Increased stamina and strength

Rapid heart rate

When misused or taken concurrently with other substances, there is a possibility of experiencing the following adverse reactions:

Nausea

High blood pressure

Mood swings

Heart arrhythmia

Tremors

Stroke

Signs of an Adderall Addiction

Universal signs of addiction include isolation, personality changes, and secretive use, among others. Adderall addicts display these signs, but there are indicators specific to Adderall abuse that suggest addiction has developed. These indicators are listed below.

Anxiety

Adderall abuse can generate restlessness, anger, and anxiety in individuals due to its stimulant nature. This is especially true if the drug is taken without being prescribed. If Adderall is being taken without the intention of treating ADD, ADHD, or narcolepsy, you will likely be irritable and on edge.

Decreased Appetite and Weight Loss

As a stimulant, Adderall suppresses appetite. People who regularly take Adderall can go without food for extended periods of time. If an individual begins exhibiting extreme weight loss over a short period of time, it is likely that Adderall use has developed into an addiction.

Insomnia

Adderall increases energy, focus, and stamina. People who abuse Adderall will find it hard to fall and stay asleep as this prescription stimulant temporarily alters the brain’s chemical balance that regulates sleep. Even if Adderall use is stopped, insomnia can remain a persistent issue in individuals who abuse this prescription drug.

Adderall Addiction Treatment

Adderall abuse and addiction are dangerous when left untreated. Fortunately, help is available for those battling an Adderall addiction. Depending on the stage of an individual’s addiction, they may require detox, an intensive treatment program, or both. Fortunately, Knoxville Recovery Center offers various services to those struggling with this addiction.

Services offered:

Detox – Our on-site detox clinic accommodates and supports clients as the body sheds all residual traces of Adderall. Clients are under medical supervision during the detox process to ensure that they remain safe and comfortable.

Addiction Treatment – During our addiction treatment program, clients will engage in introductory therapies and exercises that work to prepare them for continued, more intensive treatment outside of our facility. The goal of our addiction treatment track is to stabilize clients so that they are treatment-ready.

Mental Health Treatment – Our mental health treatment program introduces behavioral therapies rooted in self-expression and holistic exercise. Art therapy, music therapy, and yoga are just a few forms of therapy we offer at the center. Our goal is to help the client reclaim their voice and expose them to treatment within a professional facility.

Aftercare Planning – Aftercare is designed for individuals who have benefitted from our introductory addiction services and are transitioning into a more intensive addiction treatment program. Once a client is stabilized, they will be encouraged to pursue continued addiction treatment. Our experienced case managers will then work with our clients to place them in a program that addresses their specific wants and needs