Signs of Adderall Abuse

Adderall abuse can cause various physical and psychological symptoms. It can be dangerous and even deadly. Some of the most common Adderall abuse symptoms include changes in weight or appetite, problems sleeping, mood swings, paranoia, and hallucinations. Adderall misuse can lead to addiction and serious health problems.

If you or a loved one is struggling with Adderall abuse, we’re here to help answer any questions you might have.

What Is Adderall?

Adderall® is a powerful stimulant prescription drug that contains four amphetamine salts. It is most used to treat symptoms of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and narcolepsy. It may improve focus and attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity when used as prescribed. Misuse can be highly addictive. Because of the highly addictive nature, it is important to know Adderall abuse symptoms.

Also known as “the study drug,” students may misuse it to cram for tests, mistakenly believing it will enhance their academic performance. However, there is no research to substantiate this belief.

Adderall comes in tablet or capsule form, but some choose to engage in risky behaviors like snorting or injecting the drug to manipulate the intensity and how long the effects last.

Adderall’s effects can be felt within minutes, depending on consumption and type (extended-release vs. immediate-release). They last for hours, and extended-release drugs last all day.

Adderall is prescribed at low doses and increased as needed to elevate brain dopamine. Misuse of the medication enhances dopamine release. This can provide extreme pleasure but also addiction, overdose, and death.

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How to Spot Adderall Abuse Symptoms

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Adderall abuse can lead to several serious side effects, including addiction, psychosis, and cardiovascular problems.

Physical Symptoms of Adderall Abuse

When someone is addicted to Adderall, their body becomes physically dependent on the drug and may experience withdrawal symptoms when it is taken away. These physical abuse symptoms may include:

Increased heart rate
Muscle tension
Sweating
Tremors
Insomnia
Nausea or vomiting
Headaches
Loss of appetite

Psychological Symptoms of Adderall Abuse

Problematic use of Adderall can lead to an emotional reliance on the drug to cope with everyday stressors or negative emotions. Psychological Adderall abuse symptoms may include:

Feelings of paranoia and anxiety
Increased irritability
Difficulty focusing and concentrating
Loss of motivation
Mood swings
Decreased ability to make decisions
Cravings for more Adderall
Neglecting personal hygiene or hobbies

Behavioral Symptoms of Adderall Abuse

Those addicted to Adderall may exhibit certain changes in behavior because of their substance use problem. These behavioral changes may include:

Impulsivity or recklessness without thinking about the consequences
Overly aggressive behavior toward others
Consistently lying or making excuses
Spending money on buying more pills than usual
Secretiveness regarding how much Adderall has been taken or where it was acquired
Doctor shopping to get multiple scripts filled at once
Manipulating family members or friends into helping to obtain more pills

Cognitive Symptoms

Long-term abuse of Adderall can also cause cognitive impairments, such as:

Short-term memory deficits
Executive functioning issues (issues with problem-solving and decision-making)
Slurred speech
Disorientation
Confusion

Social Symptoms

As their substance abuse progresses, they may be less interested in social activities or withdraw from them altogether. They may feel overwhelmed by their addiction and cravings and begin isolating themselves from family or friends out of fear that their addiction will be discovered.

If you or someone you know is displaying these Adderall abuse symptoms, it’s time to get help. Adderall abuse can lead to serious problems, including addiction, health complications, issues at work, and relationship problems. Don’t wait to get help—reach out today.

How Do You Treat Adderall Addiction?

It’s vital to seek professional addiction treatment for Adderall addiction. This way, you or your loved one is safely detoxed and removed from temptations and distractions while focusing on recovery.

Behavioral therapies and other incentive-based treatments help treat addiction to Adderall. In addition, as with treatment for any kind of addiction, having a strong support system after clinical treatment is crucial. Mutual support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, SMART Recovery, etc., can provide guidance and comradery for those in recovery.

Currently, there are no medications specifically used to treat Adderall addiction, but a multidisciplinary approach is most beneficial. For some people struggling with Adderall addiction, this might mean attending weekly therapy sessions and participating in mutual support programs. Others might benefit from a more intensive approach, such as a 30-day inpatient rehab program.

When it comes to addiction treatment, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The best way to ensure lasting sobriety is to tailor treatment to the individual’s unique needs. The following programs offered by substance abuse professionals may be helpful in recovery:

Medical Detox

Detoxing from any type of drug can be difficult, but medical detoxcan help make the process more comfortable and safe. When detoxing from Adderall and other substances, you will be closely monitored by a team of medical professionals who can provide around-the-clock care.

Residential Rehab

Residential drug rehabprovides a safe and structured environment where you can focus on recovery without outside influences. During treatment, you’ll receive around-the-clock care, individual and group therapy sessions, and activities that help promote healing, like yoga and meditation.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) provides intensive care for people who are struggling with addiction. PHP typically includes both group and individual therapy and other services such as medication management and case management. PHP is a day treatment program while living at home—a sober living environment.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs)provide addiction treatment while allowing you to continue working and living at home. Treatment may include individual and group therapy, educational lectures, skill-building exercises, and 12-step meetings. IOPs are usually most appropriate for people who have completed a residential treatment program and are now ready to step down to a less intensive level of care.

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What Is Adderall Withdrawal Like?

It is possible to experience withdrawal symptomsafter stopping Adderall use, even when taken as prescribed. However, Adderall withdrawal symptoms will be much more intense if you’ve been abusing it.

Adderall withdrawal symptoms include a range of physical, neurological, emotional, and psychological reactions that can occur when you stop using the drug.

Common physical withdrawal symptoms include:

Fatigue
Headaches
Muscle aches and pains
Insomnia or sleeping difficulties
Nausea or loss of appetite
Neurological symptoms might include:
Anxiety or agitation
Difficulty thinking clearly or focusing
Dizziness or vertigo
Tingling sensations in the hands and feet

These symptoms can begin within a few hours of stopping Adderall use, and they may last for several days or weeks. Some people only experience mild symptoms, while others experience more severe symptoms.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms after stopping Adderall use, it is important to seek help. Withdrawal from Adderall can be dangerous, and a medical professional can provide you with the support and care you need to detox from the medication safely.

Get Help for Adderall Addiction

Addiction treatment at Vogue Recovery Center is focused on helping you achieve sobriety and maintain long-term recovery. We provide a safe and supportive environment where you can work through the challenges of Adderall addiction and develop the skills needed for successful recovery.

Our treatment for Adderall addictionis evidence-based and engaging. Vogue Recovery Center has treated thousands of people, proudly supporting our clients and their families in taking back their lives from Adderall addiction.

If you or a loved one is exhibiting signs of Adderall abuse, contact Vogue Recovery Center for a free, confidential consultation.