Adderall Drug Effects

Adderall drug effects may lead him to addiction.

Effects

Adderall drug abuse—particularly on college campuses—is a huge topic of conversation in the behavioral health community. While the drug certainly has positive medicinal value, there are also numerous negative Adderall drug effects to consider as well.

About Adderall

Adderall is the brand name combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It’s a stimulant primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Adderall stimulates the central nervous system, allowing individuals to have better focus and energy.  It’s currently available in 5–30 doses with two different forms: instant release and extended release (Adderall XR).

Short-Term Adderall Drug Effects

Some short-term Adderall drug effects can be positive when used as directed. Adderall increases the availability of neurotransmitters, including norepinephrine and dopamine. These neurotransmitters can be helpful in boosting attention, energy and alertness.

However, even individuals who use Adderall as prescribed can encounter negative side effects, including:

Lack of appetite | Increased irritability | Difficulty sleeping | Changes in behavior and personality

Long-Term Adderall Drug Effects

The most obvious of the long-term Adderall drug effects is addiction. While its addictive properties are more psychological than physical, individuals can still develop a high tolerance. As individuals develop a higher tolerance, they overestimate how much their bodies can actually handle. Thus, the risk for overdose increases.

Long-term Adderall abuse can also cause lasting cardiovascular issues. It can disrupt your heart rhythm and increase your blood pressure, both of which can increase your risk of stroke and heart attack.

The Role of Adderall Drug Rehab

Because of Adderall’s strong addictive properties, it’s important to know where to get the right adderall addiction help. The best Adderall drug rehab facilities use a combination of proven therapeutic modalities and experiential treatment methods to promote behavioral change. They help individuals understand that there’s a more positive, substance-free life ahead of them.

The best Adderall drug rehab programs offer a full continuum of care, generally starting with a supervised drug detox to cleanse your body of all addictive substances. After detox, you’ll transition into an individualized treatment program based upon your substance abuse history and other needs. Different levels of care may include:

Residential or inpatient treatment

Intensive outpatient treatment

Partial hospitalization treatment

If you or a loved one need help with Adderall drug effects, seek help as soon as possible. Don’t continue to let Adderall abuse take hold of your life.