/ Stimulants / Adderall Abuse And Addiction

Adderall Abuse and Addiction

Written by: Goeffrey Andaria, Mental Health Writer

Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC

Adderall Addiction

A prescription drug called Adderall treats attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. With the help of two mood-altering stimulants, Adderall affects chemicals in the brain that play a role in hyperactivity and impulse control. Unfortunately, taking too much of this prescription drug can lead to Adderall Addiction.

Adderall comes in two forms: an instant release (IR) and a long-term release (ER). Because Adderall has many amphetamines, people use it for fun because it gives much energy and makes them feel good. However, it has much potential for abuse and is thought to have many risks of becoming addicted.

Street names for the Adderall brand include:

Beans
The pills are made of pep
Double the trouble
Beautiful black women
Dexies
Speed

Adderall addiction

Statistics of Adderall

Risks of abusing Adderall

Other effects of Adderall

Statistics of Adderall

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 6.4 percent of college students between 18 and 22 years old have taken Adderall in a recreational capacity.

In addition, a link has been discovered between binge drinking and Adderall consumption, with 89.5 percent of students who reported misusing the stimulant also participating in binge drinking.

According to other studies, students who were enrolled full-time in college and taking Adderall for recreational purposes were three times more likely to have used marijuana and eight times more likely to have used prescription tranquilizers for recreational purposes.

Adderall addiction and abuse can be dangerous. These statistics show some of the risks.

Did You Know Rolling Hills Recovery Center Offers Treatment for Adderall Abuse?

A patient navigator is ready to help. Our team of dedicated professionals are here to help 24 hours a day.

We're Here When You're Ready

Risks of Abusing Adderall

If someone abuses Adderall, there are some things to look out for. The following are some of the signs and symptoms that may happen if you take too much Adderall:

Headaches
Shaking that you can't stop
Nervousness
Restlessness
Sleep habits that keep you alert
Nausea
Weight loss
Constipation
Loss of Hunger
Stomach pain
Drenched Mouth

There are more severe side effects when people abuse or become addicted. These are some of them:

Arms and legs aren't strong.
Seizures
Pounding or a speedy heartbeat
Shortness of breath and slurred speech
Hallucinations
Aggressive behavior
Blurred view
Swelling
Paranoia

As soon as you or someone you care about is experiencing any of these side effects because they've been taking Adderall, you need help.

Medically Reviewed:

Dr. Carl Williams Ph.D., LCADC

Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Expert Contributor

Dr. Williams presently serves on the board of Directors for two non-profit service organizations. He holds a Master’s degree in Human Services from Lincoln University, Philadelphia, Pa, and a Ph.D. with a concentration in Clinical Psychology from Union Institute and University. In Cincinnati, Ohio. He is licensed to practice addictions counseling in both New Jersey and Connecticut and has a pending application as a practicing Psychologist in New Jersey.

Readings For You

Don't See Your Insurance?

Our staff will help you step by step, answering any questions you may have.

Verify Over The Phone

Verify Online

Other Effects of Adderall

There are more side effects and problems if you become addicted to Adderall. However, as long as the drug is taken without a prescription and with medical supervision, people addicted to Adderall will likely build up a tolerance and become dependent on the drug.

Men and women who take Adderall are more likely to overdose or hurt their bodies when they don't get the drug.

Adderall abuse can also cause problems that aren't just physical. For example, addictions can hurt relationships, interfere with work, and cause financial problems.