What To Do If My Loved One Has An Amphetamine Problem
It can be hard to understand how someone became addicted to a substance, why they became addicted, and why they cant just stop, especially if you havent experienced addiction personally. Because of this, it can be even harder to accept that someone you know and love is struggling with an addiction to Adderall. How do you bring it up to them? And how do you urge them to get help?
Ways You Can Identify Adderall Addiction
Trafalgar » 5 Ways You Can Identify Adderall Addiction
In 2011, 48.4 million stimulant drugs including Adderall were dispensed to treat symptoms of ADHD .
This was a 39% increase in such prescriptions from 2007.
Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine is a drug thats used to increase attention spans and focus in people with ADHD. Its also used to aid weight loss and treat narcolepsy or daytime sleepiness at times.
While Adderall may help increase the focus of people suffering from ADHD, its also highly likely to be abused. Thats why it belongs to the class of Schedule II drugs.
In this piece, well look at how Adderall works, how addictive it is, ways to tell if someone has an Adderall addiction, and the long-term effects of Adderall abuse.
You Take Risks And Make Disproportionate Sacrifices For It
The increased capacity of the addicted brain to take risks to get a hit is one of the most studied bits of addiction a February 2016 study actually found that the structure of drug-addicted brains in particular become wired differently, making them much more likely to take incredible risks to reach their high or maintain a supply. The addicted brain has a much lower problem with risk than a normal one: itll convince you that its a good idea to steal a friends bottle of whisky, or nab $20 from your roommates purse or play poker online till 4 a.m. when youve got a job interview the next day.
Theres another aspect to this risk-taking, too while under the influence of a high, addicts often have difficulty regulating other bits of their behavior, and do risky stuff like driving fast.
Recommended Reading: What’s The Most Addictive Drug In The World
Does Adderall Permanently Change The Brain
At high-doses, Adderall is known to cause a significant change in how the brain produces neurotransmitters. However, many of these side effects may be reversible once you stop taking Adderall. Experts are still studying the long-term effects of ongoing abuse of Adderall, much of what remains unknown.
Avoiding withdrawal and preventing abuse is critical for individuals currently prescribed stimulants when treating ADHD and other neurological conditions.
Signs That You Or Someone You Love Is Struggling With Adderall Addiction
It can be hard to recognize when someone abuses Adderall. For others, there are clear signs of misuse or Adderall addiction.
Because Adderall is often abused by people who are driven to accomplish certain goals in life, the average Adderall user doesnt look like a typical addict. People misusing it may want to achieve greater athleticism, better grades, higher work performance or weight loss. Students, young professionals and even busy parents frequently obtain Adderall illegally.
Signs that may indicate you or someone you love are misusing Adderall include:
- Being excessively talkative
- Nightmares
Recommended Reading: How To Get Rid Of Fast Food Addiction
Whats It Like At Harris House
Clients are allowed to smoke and use their phones at our facility. Our location in South City is a highly secure, gated facility with 24-hour security, so youll never have to worry about safety. Feel free to explore our treatments page to learn more about the specific programs we offer.
We accept most major insurance companies. Please give us a call at 314-631-4299. A counselor is standing by 24 hours a day. You can also contact us here.
Common Treatments For Adderall Addiction
Most treatment interventions for Adderall addiction include:
- Enrolling in a supervised rehab or detoxification program
- Managing withdrawal symptoms
- Undergoing a thorough medical assessment and evaluation
- Taking part in psychotherapy, group therapy, family therapy or behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy
- Developing an aftercare plan after treatment may involve psychotherapy, counseling or ongoing individual and group therapy.
You May Like: Pain Meds For Recovering Addicts
Going To Adderall Rehab
After detox, I stayed at a treatment center for two months that specialized in dual-diagnosis. This taught me how to cope with my ADHD without turning to a chemical solution. It also allowed to be supervised. I really struggled with cravings the first month. I dont think I would have been strong enough to stay clean on my own without help. I decided to take a year off from school to get stabilized without the medication. I stayed at an Oxford House near my parents after treatment so I could focus on my recovery full-time. I am happy to report that I am now three-and-a-half years clean from all substances, including alcohol. Plus, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering last year.
- The approach of final exams, which is when Adderall abuse increases the most.
What Does Adderall Do
This drug is a central nervous system stimulant. It increases the production of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. I will let neuroscientist Dr. Ryan Davison explain it: People with ADHD tend to have lower levels of dopamine, a key chemical in the brains reward center. This lack of dopamine means people with ADHD are constantly seeking stimulation. Amphetamines stimulate the release of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain so those minor distractions dont cause you to lose focus. If you want a more in-depth explanation of how Adderall affects the brain, watch this video:
Read Also: How To Get Rid Of Addiction
Risks Of Adderall Addiction
Overuse of Adderall affects your central nervous system and can lead to heart, nerve, stomach, and mental problems. The most common indicator that someone is abusing Adderall is the behavioral effects. This begins with aggression and irritation but can quickly graduate to psychosis, anger, and paranoia. These symptoms of Adderall abuse make it difficult to maintain healthy relationships or hold down a job. People who have never engaged in physical violence may be pushed to that point while under the influence of Adderall.
Prolonged decrease of the brain chemical serotonin, which Adderall causes, can lead to depression and in severe cases suicidal thoughts. Prescription stimulants increase norepinephrine levels which can temporarily give you feelings of euphoria but long-term elevation has been linked to panic attacks and elevated blood pressure. Adderall also increases the hormone dopamine in the brain which leads to mania, anxiety, stress, and difficulty sleeping. Enduring long periods of lack of sleep causes anxiety, depression, memory loss, and decreased brain function and can trigger underlying psychiatric disorders. People with Adderall addiction commonly experience a combination of these side effects, all of which can compound on one another and have lasting negative effects.
Effects Of Adderall Addiction
The effects of Adderall addiction can be very damaging, especially long-term, without treatment. In addition, a person abusing this medication could potentially develop serious health problems and, in some cases, might even suffer from an overdose.
People who have been addicted to Adderall for a long time might experience some of the following effects:
- Difficulty breathing
In severe cases, Adderall abuse could cause symptoms like delusions and damage to the heart. Trying to quit an Adderall addiction on your own could also trigger withdrawal symptoms which often mirror the effects of abusing the drug.
This is why its advisable to seek immediate treatment if you suspect you or someone has an addiction to Adderall.
Read Also: What Are The Effects Of Addiction
Patterns Of Addiction With Adderall Abuse
People who struggle with addiction tend to spend a lot of time seeking the drug they are abusing. As tolerance develops a person will likely use more of the drug. When they begin to take more of the drug, the person may run out of their supply.
If the person abusing Adderall is prescribed the stimulant, they will likely run out of their prescription before they are supposed to. This can lead to some uncharacteristic patterns of drug seeking, such as:
Warning Signs You May Be Addicted To Adderall
- Post by: diamondhousedetox
You just need a little something extra. It could be a little jolt to keep you awake so you can study for that test. Or a little burst of energy so you can run fast enough to win.
It’s so easy to get what you want. All you have to do is take a little pill, and your goal is within your grasp.
But at what cost?
Roughly 2.5 million young people between the ages of 18-25 have misused prescription stimulants like Adderall. Considering the negative effects of becoming addicted to Adderall, this is a sobering number.
What is Adderall and how do you know if you have become addicted to it? Let’s take a look.
Don’t Miss: How To Become Less Addicted To Your Phone
Treatment For Adderall Addiction
Preventing abuse of Adderall is the most effective treatment. When one has a relative or child who takes Adderall for medical reasons, such as ADHD, it is important to monitor its use and keep it in a safe place where others do not have access to it.
A person should never abruptly halt Adderall because of the potential for withdrawal. If one wishes to stop taking Adderall, its important to consult with a doctor first. Oftentimes, dosages are tapered down slowly to avoid an intense withdrawal process.
Behavioral therapies, such as talk therapy, group therapy, and support groups, are recommended for treatment of Adderall addiction. These approaches attempt to identify the root causes of a persons addictive behavior, to address those issues, and learn to function and cope without using drugs. Thus, these types of therapy should be catered to the specific needs of the person. In some cases, inpatient treatment may be necessary specifically, a supervised medical detoxification program followed by therapy.
Signs Of Adderall Abuse
Adderall is a potent stimulant, and it can be hard to recognize when someone is abusing the drug. People often abuse Adderall to enhance alertness and productivity. They are often motivated individuals that dont look like a stereotypical drug user. Most often, those who abuse Adderall are students and young professionals.
Stimulants will help anyone focus better. And a lot of young people like or value that feeling, especially those who are driven and have ambitions. We have to realize that these are potential addicts drug addicts dont look like they used to.
– Clinical neuropsychologist Dr. DeAnsin Parker, New York Times, 2013
Telltale signs of Adderall abuse may include:
- Being overly talkative
- Impulsive behaviors
Don’t Miss: Books For Family Members Of Addicts
Adderall Addiction Versus Dependence
Adderall dependency is prevalent in those prescribed the drug by their doctor or healthcare provider.
Someone with an Adderall dependency doesnt usually go against their doctors recommendation, for example, taking more significant quantities of the drug to get high.
Typically, people with an Adderall dependency do not abuse the substance however, developing a dependence on Adderall is common, especially when the prescribed medication gets taken in the long term.
Help For Adderall Addicts
Adderall is the brand name for a drug that contains two active ingredients: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. These ingredients work to stimulate and speed up the body. Doctors use this drug in the treatment of attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy. Patients with narcolepsy take the medication because it reduces the chances of unexpectedly falling asleep. Those with ADHD find that the medication reduces the hyperactive behavior and decreases the periods of inattention caused by the condition.
Abuse of the drug is common with students for two reasons:
- The first is because students use the medication as a study aid without a prescription.
- The second is that the drug causes a high in users who take the drug for recreational purposes. These highs can be obtained through snorting the drug, swallowing the pills, or smoking the drug.
In a 2009 study published by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 6% of all college students admitted to using Adderall. However, treatment for Adderall addiction is available. Treatment may be sought in an inpatient residential rehab center or in an outpatient program. If you need help finding treatment, call .
Recommended Reading: How To Beat Meth Addiction
How Can I Tell If I’m Addicted To Adderall
I’ve been taking Adderall for several months to help me stay more alert and to increase my sex drive. I’m afraid of days I don’t take it that I will not be as alert. Should I stop? How do i know if I’m addicted?
PS-even if you have ADD you can still become addicted to it!
Anon,
I’m very interested in your experience. Now that you have been off the Adderall for six months, do you feel that you are still functioning effectively? How long did it take you to actually withdraw from it?
Hello,
I have ADD too. I took adderall as prescribed for about three or four years, then I started abusing it. I remember feeling the same way, worrying that if I don’t take it I may not be as alert. I became addicted to it, and it Flipping sucks! I have been clean from adderall for six months. I was took adderall for eight years, and coming off of it has been the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. I wouldn’t recommend taking it if you are worried you might be addicted.
Hi, Anon,
I have ADD and I have used Adderall for about 3 years. Can I echo Alison’s question and ask whether you have been prescribed it or whether you are using someone else’s?
The reason you stay alert is because of the amphetamines. In a brain with ADD or ADHD, it actually has the opposite effect: It calms us down and focuses us. We can finish tasks and concentrate, and we are better at filtering out distractions.
Have you been prescribed adderall, or are you using someone else’s prescription?
Adderall One Of Americas Favorite Amphetamines
Adderall is a prescription medication commonly given to people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADHD. I know this because I took this medication at one point for this condition. At first, I thought it was a godsend for me. The drug seemed to be the answer to my all of my problems. What I didnt know was how harmful it was going to be in the long run. If you are currently taking this drug, you need to read my story. I dont want you to get hooked on the stuff like I did. If you are trying it out, I hope I can help you understand the risks involved.
Read Also: How To Become An Addiction Counselor In Pa
You Are Having Withdrawal Symptoms
According to the American Addiction Centers, drug withdrawal involves the physical and psychological response to abruptly stopping use of a substance on which the body is dependent. Adderall withdrawal can have a wide range of components common symptoms include insomnia, changes in appetite, tremors, muscle aches, and other sensations of physical and mental discomfort. While withdrawal effects will vary from case to caseâand be influenced by such factors as age, level of dependency, and type of drug addictionâsymptoms can often be severe, and make staying sober difficult.
Because addictive use of Adderall may seem less mild than that of other drugs, users of Adderall may wonder how addictive or habit forming Adderall is, and whether it can lead to withdrawal symptoms. The simple answer is that Adderall, like other addictive substances, can lead to significant withdrawal symptoms. If you have become addicted to Adderall, and abruptly stop taking the drug, or notably decrease your dosage, you may experience âmore craving for Adderall, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disorder, depression, lack of energy and motivation,â Dunn says.
These withdrawal symptoms show your physical dependency on the drug. In many cases, they may suggest that real detoxification can only occur in the context of a structured environment, with trained supervision.
Can You Become Addicted To Adderall
Adderall is the brand name for a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, both of which are drugs that are classified as central nervous system stimulants.Adderall is prescribed for the treatment of ADHD and for narcolepsy. Adderall or Adderall IR is an immediate-release drug, meaning that the entire dose of the drug is administered at once upon ingestion , whereas Adderall XR is an extended-release version of the drug . The extended-release version was developed to forego the need for people with ADHD to take the drug 2-3 times daily.
Any form of Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning that it cannot be obtained without a prescription from a physician and that when the prescription is to be refilled, it must be called in again by the physician. According to the United States Drug Enforcement Agency, the drugs classified in this category have a high potential for abuse and their abuse can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence .
Don’t Miss: How To Stop Being Addicted To Drugs
What Can I Expect From Treatment At Harris House
As a dual diagnosis treatment facility, well take care of you as soon as you walk through our doors. Our staff will do everything they can to keep you as comfortable and safe as possible.
Harris Houses approach to treatment is based on assessing the client as a whole person in a non-judgmental way. Our treatment combines medication management, mental health therapy to stabilize depression and anxiety, along with 12 step support groups as a holistic approach to treatment. Its designed to work together to provide a stable foundation for the patient.
Admitting and being involved in substance abuse therapy is an already difficult process. We want to ensure all our clients are seen as holistic individuals worthy of time and care and help them receive the best treatment possible so they can enter recovery and leave their Adderall addiction behind them.
