Adderall is one of the most popular substances used for treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A study was released that showed a sharp influx of ADHD among children.
It stated, “There has been a dramatic rise in the past two decades going from six percent to 10 percent.” The author raises a significant point: Do these diagnoses show an actual increase in ADHD, or have doctors become more keen at diagnosing the disorder, due to ongoing efforts to educate the public? That question may never be answered, but we do know that being able to identify users with ADHD will help us improve treatment for years to come.
For the most part, ADHA affects children. As of 2017, the numbers showed an increase in usage of 14 percent of boys, as opposed to an increase of 9 percent in 1997. In the same year, the diagnosis for girls increased from 6 percent to 3 percent. As of 2016, a total 2.4 million children aged 6 to 11 were diagnosed.
Some of the symptoms of ADHD include inattention (an inability to focus), hyperactivity (excess movement that doesn’t fit the setting), and impulsivity (hasty acts that occur before the individual has thought them through). Throughout the years, Adderall has become the go-to medication for treating these issues.
When someone has ADHD, Adderall can provide immediate and profound improvements. Some of these children hated going to school, but Adderall restored their love for education and gave them a chance to succeed. While it’s gleaned great results, it comes with the potential for misuse, which is common on college campuses. Adderall misuse peaks between the ages of 18 and 25, as kids outgrow their symptoms but are still prescribed the medication. These situations have caused an increase in ER visits, due its misuse.
What is Adderall?
The main ingredient in Adderall is dextroamphetamine This potent central nervous system (CNS) stimulant affects chemicals in the brain that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. Adderall has the strength to cause effects such as euphoria and increased energy, concentration, and self-confidence. It was initially created to be long-lasting and increase concentration in kids or adults who deal with problems related to ADHD.
When abused, Adderall carries the risk of addiction. Those who have a history of abusing drugs are more likely to become addicted to it. When the drug is used as intended, there is a smaller chance of developing a substance use disorder. Adderall use becomes an issue when the drug is taken in higher doses than a doctor would prescribe or in a manner that’s inconsistent with its purpose.
Adderall is only intended to be orally consumed, but when it’s abused, the prescription pills are broken down into powder and snorted for a more intense high. Because the drug has an extended-release formula, an overdose can lead to comas, brain damage, and even death.
What are the Effects of Adderall?
Adderall can affect users in different ways. While some users genuinely have a chemical imbalance that causes ADHD, others solely use it to get high. When you have ADHD, the Adderall will slow you down and help you focus, but it will cause the thought patterns of recreational users to actually speed up.
Some of the Most Common Side Effects of Adderall Are:
- Sleeping problems
- Shortness of breath
- Improved attention span
- Slowed growth
- Dry mouth
Signs of Adderall Abuse
If you believe that you or someone you love has developed an addiction to Adderall, there are outward signs to look for. Even when used as prescribed, a Adderall addiction can form. If a problem arises, you must reach out to your doctor.
Signs of Adderall Abuse Include:
- Taking a higher dose than prescribed
- Snorting or injecting the drug
- Consuming it to stay awake
- Shopping for doctors
- Illegally obtaining the medication
- Consuming it more frequently than prescribed
Other Long-Term Signs and Symptoms of Abuse Can Include:
- Weakness or numbness in limbs
- Slowed speech
- Dizziness
- Hives
- Aggressive behavior
- Insomnia
- Mania
If an addiction is treated early, it’s possible to live a healthy life afterward, but over time, Adderall can cause irreversible health problems.
Adderall Rehab Procedure
The first step in the continuum of medical care is detox. Stimulant withdrawal isn’t as dangerous as barbiturates or alcohol, but it can still serve as a safe environment during a vulnerable period of withdrawal. During this stage, you’ll be supervised round-the-clock, so you don’t have to worry about outside triggers. You can solely focus on stabilizing your mind and body. In case any complications do arise, professionals will be by your side to assist you. In the event of a tough detox, they can offer medication to alleviate some of the symptoms of withdrawal.
The severity of your drug addiction will determine the next stage of care. You could be placed in a residential treatment center or outpatient facility that will address your needs and delve deeper into the root of your addiction. In any type of treatment, you’ll take part in therapy sessions that will address the reasons why you started using in the first place.
These Therapies Include:
- Individual therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
Abuse Statistics About Adderall
- In 2018, 90% of full-time college students who nonmedically used Adderall were also binge alcohol users.
- 76% of these users acquired it from a friend with a prescription.
- 1 in 10 high school students has admitted to abusing Adderall or another study drug
