People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often find significant relief in their symptoms when their doctor prescribes them Adderall. Unfortunately, the drug can be addictive, leading to severe health and life consequences. Adderall addiction treatment can provide vital support and healing when someone is struggling with Adderall.
At Ashwood Recovery, we provide substance abuse treatment in Boise, Idaho. It may seem challenging to manage the symptoms of ADHD without Adderall, but living with untreated addiction has even more severe consequences. Our dual diagnosis programs provide mental health and Adderall addiction treatment to teach our patients the skills they need to live happier, healthier lives. Get started today by calling 888.341.3607.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription drug that is used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It is a stimulant, meaning it speeds up the body’s activities. Adderall works by increasing the amount of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a chemical that helps control movement and emotions and also plays a role in pleasure and addiction.
How Do Doctors Prescribe Adderall?
Adderall is available in both an immediate-release and an extended-release form. The immediate-release form of Adderall is taken two to three times a day, while the extended-release form is taken once a day. Adderall is usually taken orally, but people who abuse it may snort or inject it.
When someone takes Adderall, they may experience uncomfortable side effects, like:
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Weight loss
- Increased heart rate
Why Is Adderall so Addictive?
Adderall is addictive because it increases dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in pleasure, motivation, and addiction. When someone takes Adderall, they may experience an increase in energy and focus, which can be pleasurable. Over time, the brain may come to rely on Adderall to produce dopamine, leading to addiction.
Other drugs that impact the brain’s dopamine production include meth, cocaine, and heroin. All of these drugs are well-known to be extremely dangerous, but Adderall can affect the brain in many of the same ways.
How Do I Know If I’m Addicted to Adderall?
If you or someone you know is taking Adderall, it’s essential to be aware of the signs of addiction. These can include:
- Taking more Adderall than prescribed or taking it for reasons other than what it was prescribed for
- Continuing to use Adderall despite adverse consequences, like problems at work or school
- Difficulty sleeping
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Aggression
If you or someone you know is showing these signs, it’s important to seek help from a doctor or addiction specialist. Adderall addiction is a serious condition that can have harmful consequences. With treatment, however, it is possible to recover.
What Are the Street Names for Adderall?
Adderall is also known by a variety of street names, including:
- Addy
- Beans
- Dexies
- Uppers
What to Do if Someone You Know Abuses Adderall
If you or someone you know is abusing Adderall, it’s important to seek help right away. Adderall abuse can lead to serious health problems, including addiction. Treatment for Adderall abuse typically begins with detoxification, followed by counseling and support groups. With treatment, it is possible to recover from Adderall abuse and addiction.
Adderall Addiction Treatment at Ashwood Recovery
Ashwood Recovery is an outpatient center with programs for Adderall addiction treatment. We offer a variety of treatment options, including counseling and support groups, to help you or your loved one recover from addiction. Our caring staff will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs. With treatment, it is possible to recover from Adderall addiction. For more information, contact us today at 888.341.3607.