While Adderall is legally prescribed for many medical conditions, it is widely abused. From high school and college students to adults, this addictive drug causes many problems. Whether you are abusing a prescription or getting the drug elsewhere, it is vital to recognize the signs of Adderall addiction.
When you see the signs and symptoms of Adderall abuse, reach out to the Adderall addiction treatment center in Memphis, TN. You don’t have to live with the negative side effects of addiction.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription medication commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It’s also prescribed for certain sleeping disorders, such as narcolepsy.
Adderall is made up of two stimulant drugs: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It comes in several forms, including tablets and extended-release capsules. The dosage and frequency of use can vary depending on why it’s being prescribed. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking Adderall. Taking too much or misusing the drug can lead to serious health problems, including addiction.
Adderall works by altering the amount of natural substances in the brain. This stimulant increases attention spans, improves listening skills, and controls behavior problems. It decreases the amount of sleep needed and is an appetite suppressant.
Adderall abuse doesn’t result in the same euphoric high as other substances of abuse. However, it brings on increased energy, focus, and, in some cases, self-confidence.
In those who use higher doses of Adderall, it can make changes to the brain. Once addiction occurs, the brain has difficulty creating normal levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine.
Signs of Adderall Addiction
Continued use of Adderall can sometimes lead to physical dependence and addiction. There are certain signs that Adderall addiction has occurred.
Signs of a stimulant use disorder include:
- Using Adderall after experiencing physical and psychological issues
- Prioritizing substance abuse over friends, family, and school or work
- Needing to take higher doses to reach the same effect
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using Adderall
- Consistent misuse of your prescription or using or stealing another’s
Adderall abuse leads to short and long-term side effects. These range from physical to behavioral. An assessment from a substance abuse treatment center can help diagnose your symptoms and recommend recovery programs.
Physical Symptoms
Those who abuse Adderall commonly experience a short term boost of energy and focus. But it is important to note the lingering side effects.
Physical symptoms of Adderall abuse include:
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Nausea or vomiting
- Malnutrition from weight loss
- Shaking uncontrollably in areas of the body
More severe symptoms affect breathing and heart rate resulting in throat swelling and chest pain.
Psychological Symptoms
Adderall abuse can lead to the following mental health symptoms:
- Mood swings and disorders
- Agitation
- Aggression
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
When psychological symptoms occur, dual diagnosis treatment helps individuals recover from addiction and mental health disorders. Without treating both issues, the cycle of addiction usually continues.
Behavioral Symptoms
A common sign of Adderall addiction is finding multiple prescription bottles from a variety of doctors. As with other prescription drug addiction, it is very common for an individual addicted to Adderall to “doctor shop.”
To get the amount of Adderall needed to keep up with an addiction, an individual will go to different doctors for prescriptions. Even different pharmacies are used to avoid suspicion. When this fails, someone may purchase drugs from friends or family.
Although higher in risk, Adderall can also be purchased on the street. Individuals may disappear for a time to purchase the drug. They will spend a lot of time and money to acquire more Adderall, isolate themselves from loved ones, and neglect personal hygiene.
Behavioral signs also include finding paraphernalia, such as a syringe if injecting or a hollowed-out pen to crush and snort pills.
Adderall Addiction Treatment
Adderall addiction treatment is a comprehensive approach to helping people who are addicted to Adderall. This type of treatment often involves medication, counseling and lifestyle changes that help individuals break their patterns of substance abuse. The goal of Adderall addiction treatment is to achieve lasting sobriety and improved overall quality of life. Treatment programs typically include detox, individual and group therapy, family counseling and aftercare planning. Medications may be prescribed to help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings in some cases. Long-term support is important to ensure that individuals remain abstinent from Adderall use and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Memphis Recovery Centers provides a dedicated Adderall addiction treatment program for the health and wellness of those struggling with addiction. Our experts may recommend the following programs:
- Inpatient drug rehab program
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
- 12 step recovery program
- Addiction therapy services
Get Help Today at Memphis Recovery Centers
If you spot the signs of Adderall addiction, contact Memphis Recovery Centers. Call 901-272-7751 for specialized addiction treatment programs in Memphis, TN.
