Adderall is a prescribed medication for the treatment of certain disorders, including ADHD. However, because of the impact the drug can have on mental and physical performance, it is frequently abused. While it may seem harmless, you can get trapped in the cycle of addiction to stimulants like Adderall. You likely want to know more about the drug and what using it looks like, including: how long does Adderall stay in your system? We have the answers about what Adderall is, what effects it causes, and the dangers of abusing it. Keep reading to understand the potential results of Adderall use, as well as how to get help for substance addiction.

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is a stimulant drug used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, a sleep disorder. It’s the brand name for the ingredients amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Both ingredients are central nervous system stimulants that work together to improve symptoms by targeting imbalances in the brain. They are sometimes called “uppers.” Adderall is a prescription medication that must be given by a medical provider. Unfortunately, Adderall prescriptions can be misused. Some people use Adderall recreationally to boost feelings of productivity and energy.

How Does Adderall Work?

Amphetamines like Adderall work by targeting chemical messengers in the brain to produce more positive neuro connections. They work in the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. Adderall blocks the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, both monoamines responsible for positive feelings. As such, these good chemical messengers improve the individual’s mood. ADHD is associated with low dopamine. Thus, Adderall works as an ADHD medication by resetting the chemical balance to improve symptoms like poor focus and impulsivity.

What Forms Does Adderall Come In?

Adderall comes in pill form, as both tablets and capsules. Adderall is meant to be swallowed as prescribed by a doctor. It comes in slow-release and immediate-release forms, depending on the individual’s symptoms. Understandably, immediate-release pills can lead to a quick high when abused. When used recreationally, individuals may crush the tablets into powder they snort or dissolve into water to create injectable liquid Adderall. Adderall in capsule form can be opened and snorted or injected, as well.

Is Adderall Dangerous?

Adderall is made up of strong stimulant drugs that have a high risk attached to them when used outside of how they were prescribed. Adderall can be very dangerous, especially when abused repeatedly. Further, individuals can increase the risks of Adderall through strategic use. For example, the extended-release version of Adderall produces a more intense high, especially when crushed instead of swallowed. Not only does Adderall misuse lead to a large risk of dependence and addiction, but it can also lead to health dangers.

For instance, Adderall abuse can cause physical issues like high blood pressure, loss of appetite, heartbeat abnormalities, seizures, and stroke. Using other substances with Adderall also presents new dangers. Alcohol and Adderall are a bad mix. Essentially, when taken together, they produce opposite effects that battle in your body. Along with participating in dangerous, uninhibited behavior, you might experience alcohol poisoning because Adderall can cause you to drink too much. 

Students and Adderall Abuse

Students are one demographic that commonly misuses Adderall. Because Adderall targets chemical brain activity, it can lead to better mental performance, focus, memory, and attention. High school and college students alike may desire these effects to help them do better in school. Similarly, students may use Adderall in a way that can stimulate better athletic performance. With the stress of competing at a high level, students can become dependent on taking Adderall for their performance.

Unfortunately, without getting help, students will be trapped in the cycle of addiction, and eventually, the positive effects will wear off. We can help students find freedom over Adderall addiction.