Adderall is commonly prescribed for conditions like ADHD. It is a central nervous system stimulant, which helps those with attention deficit disorders to concentrate. While it’s considered to be safe under a doctor’s supervision, it does have the potential for addiction and abuse. While Adderall is a relatively well-known drug, there are some misconceptions about Adderall addiction.
If you or someone you love is misusing Adderall, reach out to the drug detox center for help.
Myth 1: Adderall Addiction Only Occurs in Teens
It’s a common misconception that teens are at the greatest risk of becoming addicted to Adderall. Adderall abuse is increasing the most in young adults, age 18-25. In fact, this age group accounts for 60% of nonmedical Adderall use in those over 12 years old. Many of these individuals begin taking the drug to aid concentration or to stay up longer to study.
Myth 2: It’s Safe Because It’s Prescribed by a Doctor
Adderall, like most drugs, can be purchased on the street. However, the majority of people who abuse Adderall get it from a doctor or friends or family members with a legitimate prescription. This can make illicit Adderall seem much safer than it actually is. It may not be considered “a real drug” because it came from an acquaintance.
Health risks and side effects of Adderall addiction include:
- Insomnia
- Increased risk for psychological problems
- High blood pressure
- Increased risk of stroke
- Irritability
Prescription drug abuse is a huge problem in the U.S. However, help can be found through prescription drug detox programs in Florida.
Myth 3: Adderall Has Little Resemblance to Methamphetamine
When you look at the chemical structure of Adderall, an amphetamine, and methamphetamine, they are shockingly similar. Methamphetamine has more of the methyl molecule, which allows it to enter the blood-brain barrier quicker.
In terms of effects, methamphetamine is stronger, longer-lasting, and may provide more euphoria. However, that’s where the differences end. They can both be dangerous and addictive. They are both stimulants and even cause many of the same side effects.
Myth 4: Self-Medicating With Adderall is Safe
ADHD is a common problem, and some people are reluctant to speak to their physician. They may be using Adderall for what they perceive is a legitimate purpose and not exceeding dosage guidelines. However, there is still danger involved.
Before a doctor writes a prescription for Adderall, they check the patient’s heart and take a history. Adderall can cause cardiac events and even sudden death, according to a black box warning by the FDA. The risk of these events is much higher in individuals with heart problems, even in regularly prescribed doses.
Myth 5: Adderall Addiction Doesn’t Occur if You Are Prescribed the Drug
You have a prescription from your doctor, so you can’t have an addiction right? Wrong. You can develop an addiction to Adderall, particularly if you aren’t taking it as prescribed. Most signs of Adderall addiction are the same, with or without a prescription, because they relate to misuse of the drug.
Signs of Adderall addiction include:
- Taking a higher dosage than prescribed
- Taking it more frequently than prescribed
- Crushing or snorting the drug
- Taking it for reasons other than prescribed, including avoiding sleep or recreational use
- Taking someone else’s prescription or purchasing Adderall illegally
Myth 6: Adderall Doesn’t Require Addiction Treatment
Adderall can have some very unpleasant withdrawal effects, including nausea, chest pain, rapid heart rate, fever, and seizures. If you have been using Adderall and experience withdrawals, you should detox from the drug under medical supervision. You may need to taper off Adderall slowly at a medical detox center.
Adderall Addiction Treatment at Summit Detox
Summit Detox specializes in helping you detox from addictive drugs. The withdrawals associated with Adderall addiction can be uncomfortable or even dangerous without medical supervision. We can help you get through the process in a way that is best suited to your needs. Contact us today at (888) 995-5265 to learn more about how we can help.
