adderall-addiction-treatment

Adderall Addiction

Adderall addiction can cause physical and psychological dependence, along with various harmful effects like insomnia, anxiety, heart palpitations, and even psychosis.

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Home Chronic Relapse Dual Diagnosis Substance Abuse Adderall Addiction

Men are more likely than women to use substances. As a result, men also have a higher overdose rate. Prescription stimulant use is on the rise today. One common stimulant that men misuse is Adderall. Since Adderall is an addictive substance, it has a high potential for abuse. Current studies show that Adderall use is more common among adults than children.

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is a prescription drug that contains dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. Since it stimulates the central nervous system, it may help treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The drug is often the first treatment choice for ADHD. Adderall may help reduce impulsive actions and enhance concentration. The drug may also be recommended to people with narcolepsy.

Although research for narcolepsy treatment is limited, Adderall may help some users stay awake during the day. Adderall comes in tablet and capsule forms. The tablet releases the substance immediately, and the capsule gradually releases it throughout an extended period.

Signs and Symptoms of Adderall Addiction

You may not notice some changes as you become addicted. Look for these common signs and symptoms of Adderall addiction:

  • You smoke, inject, or snort the medication.
  • You use more than the recommended dose.
  • You take the medication more frequently than you should.
  • You feel anxious, paranoid, or agitated.
  • You take great risks to obtain the drug.
  • You have a rapid heartbeat and a weak appetite.

Many people who misuse Adderall obtain it from a friend or another illegal source. People often misuse the drug to keep up with studies and other commitments that keep them busy. However, you can still develop an addiction if you have a legitimate prescription.

For example, you may take it more often than the doctor recommends. This increases your tolerance, and you need more of the drug to produce the same effects. You can become dependent on the drug when you misuse it. Addiction happens when you cannot stop taking the drug.

Effects of Adderall Misuse

Developing an addiction to Adderall is not the only risk of misusing it. There are short-term and long-term effects of misuse. These are some potential short-term effects:

  • Headaches, visual changes, or dizziness
  • Difficulty sleeping and restlessness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Hallucinations or paranoia
  • Worsening mental health issues

Long-term effects of Adderall misuse may include new mental health issues and heart problems. The drug may also cause children to grow at a slower-than-normal rate.

Recognizing Adderall Overdose Signs

Both long-term and short-term use are associated with overdose risks. These are some common Adderall overdose signs:

  • Chest pain
  • Dry mouth
  • Dilated pupils
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • High body temperature
  • Disorientation
  • Rapid breathing

Call 911 if overdose symptoms occur.

Misusing Other Stimulants

Some people who misuse Adderall combine it with other stimulants. Doing this can increase liver damage, brain injury, heart attack, and stroke risks. People may take other stimulants instead of Adderall. These are some other prescription stimulants that are addictive.

Vyvanse’s active ingredient is lisdexamfetamine, and it becomes dextroamphetamine when it breaks down. Since Vyvanse breaks down in the bloodstream, it has long-lasting effects. It may control symptoms for up to 12 hours. Adderall provides relief for about 10 hours. Some doctors also prescribe Vyvanse to help reduce binge eating. Although both drugs are effective treatments for ADHD, immediate-release Adderall is more addictive. Since there is no generic version available, Vyvanse is more expensive.

Ritalin is another common prescription stimulant. Although Adderall and Ritalin are both top choices for treating ADHD, Ritalin may work faster. The costs are similar, and there are generic versions of both drugs. They also have similar side effects and risks

Concerta contains methylphenidate and is a stimulant. Since it is only available as an extended-release drug, it is better for people who do not need immediate relief. Concerta is a once-per-day medication, and there is a generic version. Its effects may last about 12 hours. The risks and side effects of Adderall and Concerta are similar.

Treatments for Adderall Addiction

There are many treatment options available today for people who struggle with Adderall addiction. These are some of the main treatments.

Medications
There are no medications that directly treat Adderall addiction. However, doctors often prescribe supportive medications when people go through detoxification. The medications can help relieve unpleasant withdrawal side effects. For instance, some medications treat nausea and constipation. It is important to detox under the supervision of trained medical professionals

Therapies

Several therapies are valuable parts of addiction treatment programs. You may be familiar with some of these therapies if you previously received mental health treatment.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an evidence-based mental health counseling approach. It helps people discover connections between their actions, feelings, and thoughts. They learn how their actions impact their own lives and the lives of those around them. Also, they learn how their actions affect recovery. CBT helps people learn the causes of their behaviors or why they make certain choices.

DBT is a therapy that is part of CBT. Its purpose is to help people accept their difficult feelings and find ways to make positive changes. They may learn coping strategies for situations that they cannot avoid.

Once people discover the causes of their behaviors, it is easier to develop strategies to change them. Therapists show people specific ways to change problematic behaviors as they go through treatment. Some people also have negative images of themselves, and therapists teach them how to accept themselves. Changing problematic behaviors may also help some people change negative perceptions.

EMDR involves therapist-guided eye movement as clients revisit traumatic experiences. This therapy is helpful for people who have PTSD or have been through a traumatic experience. The goal of reprocessing memories is to promote healing. Although some people may experience only one traumatic event, others may experience repeated trauma over time. For example, a person who was abused as a child may benefit from EMDR. Someone who witnessed a crime may also benefit from this therapy. People who experience traumatic events often turn to substances and become addicted.

Many people have heard of Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous. Both are 12-step group meetings. NA is an important part of recovery for people who are addicted to Adderall. Peers lead group meetings. People share their stories, struggles, and learning experiences. Each new person has a sponsor who has been in recovery longer. Support and accountability are important for reducing relapse risks. Many people attend NA meetings for the rest of their lives after they complete Adderall addiction treatment.

Finding the Right Stimulant Addiction Treatment Program in Colorado

If you or a loved one would like more information about our Adderall addiction treatment options, the Jaywalker team is here to answer your questions. We can offer information about program details, insurance, and more. Our facility is located in the beautiful Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Men enjoy our unique approach that incorporates outdoor adventures and evidence-based addiction treatment solutions. To learn more about Adderall addiction and treatment in Carbondale, please contact us.

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