Adderall combines dextroamphetamine and amphetamines to stimulate and increase the availability of dopamine and norepinephrine—neurotransmitters in the central nervous system connections. This provides the user with a surge of energy, increased concentration, a suppressed appetite, and the ability to stay awake for long periods of time. This simulated neurological boost has led to the increasingly habitual use of Adderall as a “study drug” by teens and overwhelmed college students.
Adderall is generally safe when used in small, prescribed amounts, but even the most well-intended student trying to stay awake to study for an exam runs the risk of becoming dependent on the drug. Prescription drug addiction can happen to anyone, and heavy use over a long period of time can have devastating long-term health consequences.
If you have reason to believe you or a loved one may be struggling with Adderall addiction, treatment in a safe, secure setting overseen by trained clinical specialists offers the greatest potential for long-term recovery.
What are the Long-Term Risks of Adderall Abuse?
Adderall abuse occurs when an individual uses the drug at a higher dosage, more frequently, or for a longer period of time than is prescribed. The longer and more heavily you use Adderall, the greater your risk factor will be for the following:
Heart Disease
Prolonged and excessive stimulant use can weaken the heart muscle, leading to potentially life-threatening complications. The most common of these are hypertension (high blood pressure) and tachycardia (irregular heart rate). These effects may also increase the possibility of a fatal cardiac arrest.
Stroke
Because it increases body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure, heavy Adderall use puts an increased strain on the body. Over time, this can damage nerve cells and increase the likelihood of having a stroke.
Depression and Anxiety
Not all effects of heavy Adderall use are physical. Adderall may grant the user temporary euphoria, but with prolonged use comes the potential for debilitating withdrawal symptoms, including low energy, the inability to feel pleasure, depression, and suicidal thoughts or actions.
Neurotoxicity
Repeated heavy use of Adderall can cause a buildup of central nervous system toxicity, potentially resulting in psychosis and schizophrenia-like symptoms that worsen with time and continued use of the drug.
Other Side Effects
Other long-term side effects of Adderall addiction may include:
- Inability to concentrate
- Paranoia or hostility
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Numbness of the extremities
- Pain
- Change in skin color
- Temperature sensitivity
- Changes in libido
- Tremors
- Trouble breathing
- Headaches
Just as everyone’s experience of addiction is different, everyone experiences withdrawal differently as well. If you recognize the signs of Adderall abuse in yourself or a loved one, it’s best to seek help as soon as possible. While it may be tempting to try quitting Adderall on your own, it is far safer—and typically more effective—to opt for medically supervised detox and professional addiction treatment instead.
Adderall Addiction Recovery Begins With Detox
Safely ending an Adderall addiction begins with seeking help from trained clinicians at a specialized detox facility. Addiction specialists can provide you or your loved one with the expert medical support you need to minimize withdrawal symptoms and ensure a positive outcome.
However, it is important to note that the end of detox does not necessarily denote the end of your recovery journey. Often—and especially for someone who has used Adderall heavily and for a prolonged period—detox alone is insufficient treatment for the possible long-term health effects your body may have sustained due to Adderall abuse. As such, it is best to follow up a detox program with a long-term Adderall addiction treatment plan developed uniquely for you by experienced specialists.
The Long-Term Benefits of Adderall Addiction Treatment
While prolonged Adderall use can have serious long-term consequences, a comprehensive treatment program offers a variety of long-lasting benefits. The right Adderall addiction treatment plan will provide you or your loved one with opportunities to:
- Better understand the underlying factors that triggered or contributed to the addiction
- Build a robust mental health toolbox full of coping mechanisms for dealing with triggers and cravings
- Learn about and implement lifestyle changes that will replace unhealthy habits and choices with options that bolster your mental, emotional, and physical health
- Improve your physiological and psychological resilience
- Address and heal the negative effects addiction has had on your family as a unit
All of these factors will ultimately contribute positively to your ability to create the life you want—without needing to lean on the crutch of addiction to create it. Additionally, many addiction treatment programs offer aftercare planning services that can help with everything from resolving legal issues related to your addiction to finding employment or scholarship opportunities with which to begin rebuilding your life.
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