Adderall

Adderall contains a combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. These drugs are central nervous system stimulants that alter brain chemistry and the nerves that control impulses and hyperactivity. Adderall is used mainly for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Adderall is habit forming, so anyone with a history of addiction or drug abuse should not use this medication. If used improperly, the drug can cause serious heart side effects or death.
According to a recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) by SAMHSA, more than 6 percent of full-time college students use Adderall as a recreational drug. Also, 90 percent of college students who used Adderall for fun also engaged in binge drinking or were heavy alcohol abusers. The survey found that students who transitioned from high school to college, and were between the ages of 18 and 22 years, were twice as likely to have tried Adderall for recreation purposes as opposed to those who did not attend school full-time.

Side Effects of Adderall

There are many side effects of Adderall. These side effects can pose serious health issues, so it is important to seek medical care should these occur. Side effects include:
  • Uncontrollable body shaking, restlessness, and nervousness
  • Diarrhea, stomach pains, nausea, and dry mouth
  • Trouble sleeping, weight loss, and loss of appetite
  • Headaches
Overdose from Adderall is likely if the user takes too much of the drug. If you suspect you or someone else has overdosed, call 911 or go to the emergency department immediately. Symptoms and signs of overdose include:
  • Restlessness
  • Hallucinations
  • Panic attacks
  • Increased breathing rate
  • Confusion
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Dizziness
  • Seizures
  • Coma

Adderall Abuse Treatment

To prevent the abuse of Adderall, understanding the facts of addiction are necessary. However, if you become addicted to this drug, there are numerous rehabilitation (rehab) centers that can help. These facilities offer detoxification services to aid in the psychological and physical addiction to Adderall.
Adderall is a serious habit forming drug, and it is known to cause premature birth, withdrawal symptoms, and low birth weight in the unborn child. You should not breast-feed while taking this medication. Also discuss this medication with your doctor. If you are prescribed Adderall, do not chew, crush, break, or open an extended-release capsule. Rather, you should swallow it whole. The drug needs to be stored at room temperature away from health, moisture, and light. Also, Adderall can produce unusual test results, so make medical staff aware if you are using or prescribed this drug.

What to Avoid While on Adderall

If you are prescribed Adderall, this drug will impair your reactions and thinking. Be cautious if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Do not take Adderall late in the day, as it will lead to sleeplessness and anxiety. Also, avoid drinking or eating juices and foods that are high in vitamin C, as these will make your body not absorb less of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine.