Adderall Addiction Side Effects & Dangers

For people who have ADHD and certain other concerns, Adderall can be a life-changing medication. But if someone misuses this drug, they risk becoming addicted. In the absence of effective professional care, Adderall addiction side effects can be extremely harmful and possibly fatal.

Is Adderall Addictive?

Adderall is the brand name of a prescription medication that is commonly used to treat people who have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It contains racemic amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, which classifies it as a stimulant.

When a person takes Adderall as directed by the professional who prescribes it to them, they can use the drug safely and with minimal risk. However, as is the case with virtually every prescription medication, Adderall use can be accompanied by several risks, including abuse and addiction.

People can also become addicted to Adderall if they use the drug to self-medicate or to achieve a recreational high. 

Some people abuse Adderall in an attempt to increase focus, concentration, and memory when studying for a test or working on a complex project. Others may do so for the energy boost or to counter the effects of other drugs, so that they can party for a longer period of time.

Regardless of what causes a person to become addicted to Adderall, this experience can lead to a host of side effects and dangers.

Side Effects of Adderall Addiction

Adderall addiction is characterized by a loss of control over how often a person abuses Adderall and how much of the drug they use. The longer a person struggles with compulsive Adderall abuse, the greater the likelihood becomes that they will experience Adderall addiction side effects such as the following:

• Dramatic changes in mood, attitude, and energy
• Loss of appetite
• Rapid heart rate
• Increased blood pressure
• Elevated body temperature
• Headaches
• Abdominal cramping
• Constipation
• Disrupted sleep patterns
• Depression
• Psychosis

The Adderall addiction side effects listed above are distressing, and they can occur within the first few times a person uses the drug. The continued compulsive abuse of Adderall is associated with an increased risk of debilitating and potentially fatal dangers.

Dangers of Adderall Addiction

Untreated Adderall addiction can put a person at risk for myriad forms of immediate and long-term harm. This includes potential damage to their physical, psychological, social, and economic well-being.  

Someone who is addicted to Adderall may face dangers such as the following:

• Cardiovascular problems
• Malnutrition
• Onset of co-occurring mental health concerns
• Being arrested, fined, and jailed
• Financial ruin
• Job loss and long-term unemployment
• Ruined relationships with friends and family
• Social withdrawal and isolation
• Suicidal ideation
• Overdose
• Coma
• Death

Adderall addiction side effects and dangers do not occur in a predictable manner. Overdose and other catastrophic outcomes can happen any time someone abuses this drug. This is why it is so important to get treatment as soon as possible. 

You don’t need to wait until you have “hit rock bottom” before you can benefit from professional care. The moment you suspect that you have a problem, you should make an appointment for an assessment. Completing an assessment and receiving an accurate diagnosis are vital steps on the path to treatment and recovery. 

How to Overcome Adderall Addiction Safely?

The best way to avoid continued harm from Adderall addiction side effects and dangers is to receive professional treatment. Adderall addiction is a chronic, progressive disease. This means that the goal of treatment isn’t to “cure” a person of their addiction, but rather to help them regain control of their behaviors and manage their urges and compulsions.

Treatment for Adderall addiction can occur at multiple levels and include an array of therapies and support services. Depending on the degree to which a person has been affected by Adderall addiction, their care may include one or more of the following programs:

• Detoxification: This is a short-term program that can help people rid their bodies of Adderall. During detox, patients may receive both medical and therapeutic support to help them complete the withdrawal process as safely and comfortably as possible. 
• Residential treatment: Features of Adderall addiction treatment at the residential level include round-the-clock care, full days of treatment, multiple therapies, and the opportunity to temporarily step away from the stresses and pressures of everyday life.
• Intensive outpatient program (IOP): When they are in an IOP, people need to be at the treatment center only when receiving care. During non-treatment hours, participants may have time to work, take classes, and otherwise engage in a healthy independent lifestyle.
• Online or virtual treatment: This type of treatment allows patients to participate in therapy for Adderall addiction from the safety and comfort of their own homes. Sessions are conducted via user-friendly videoconferencing software.

Within the various programs listed above, comprehensive treatment for Adderall addiction may include elements such as the following:

• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Trauma therapy
• Psychodrama therapy

Begin Adderall Addiction Treatment at Los Angeles Detox

LA Detox is a premier provider of customized Adderall addiction treatment services for adults. Our treatment center in Los Angeles, California, includes specialized programming for young adults, seniors, professionals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. With the help of our skilled treatment teams, you can end your Adderall abuse and learn to live a healthier, drug free life. 

When you’re ready to begin your recovery journey, the LA Detox team is here for you. To learn more about how we can help, or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact page or call us today.