Adderall Abuse
The Growing Trend of Adderall Abuse
As the prescription drug abuse epidemic continues to grow, more and more prescription drugs are being abused. Adderall happens to be on the list of commonly abused prescription drugs, this drug is especially abused by teenagers and young adults. Adderall is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, most commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).In addition, the drug is also used to treat sleep disorders such as narcolepsy, and also to help manage depression. Despite Adderall being a prescription drug, it is commonly recreationally abused. Adderall abuse can occur in several ways including:
- Taking more of the drug than prescribed
- Taking the drug for longer than prescribed
- Taking the drug without a prescription or medical need
- Taking the drug more frequently than prescribed
Adderall is typically recreationally used for it's ability to produce stimulant effects and feelings of euphoria. The drug has a very high potential for misuse and an even higher potential for addiction.
Adderall Abuse in College Students
According to reports from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), full time college students were twice as likely to have had a history of using Adderall for non-medical purposes in comparison to individuals who are not full time students. Unfortunately, due to Adderall being deemed as a study drug for many students, the non-medical use and abuse of the drug continues to grow. Adderall abuse in college is a growing trend, as more and more students start to believe that the drug helps them study better. One study conducted on 1,800 college students found that 81% of the students who they interviewed viewed the illicit use of Adderall to be "not dangerous at all" or "slightly dangerous". Many college students who abuse Adderall perceive that the drug allows them to be more focused and efficient, which produces better academic results. There is currently a large barrier in shifting the college students attitudes towards the nonmedical use of Adderall, nonetheless research is being conducted to help find ways to combat against this epidemic.
The Long Term Effects of Adderall Abuse
Individuals who abuse Adderall over an extended period of time will typically experience a host of negative effects in relation to both their physical and mental health. Adderall's side effects can cause physical damage to the brain, internal systems and organs if abused long term. Common long term effects of Adderall abuse may include:
- Depression
- Headaches
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
- Lack and loss of motivation
- Suicidal thoughts
- Inability to concentrate
- Experiencing symptoms of withdrawal when Adderall use has been reduced or stopped
- Development of a dependency on the drug
These are just some of the many negative effects associated with long term Adderall abuse. If you or your loved one are currently misusing or abusing Adderall, you can avoid suffering from the long term effects of Adderall abuse by seeking help today.
Adderall Addiction Signs
If you are under the impression that you or your loved one may be addicted to Adderall, there are several Adderall addiction symptoms which you can observe for. The key to recognizing Adderall addiction is to observe for certain behaviors. Individuals who are addicted to Adderall have the tendency to make using and obtaining the drug a priority because they cannot function without it. Individuals who are addicted to Adderall will typically experience difficulties I controlling their use of the drug including the frequency and amount. Also, an individual who may be addicted to Adderall will typically begin to start neglecting responsibilities and obligations in relation to their Adderall use. Most importantly, if an individual typically experiences symptoms of withdrawal when their use of Adderall has decreased or stopped abruptly, there's a great chance they are abusing the drug or addicted.
Seek Help Today at Drug Rehab Treatment Centers Henderson
If you or your loved one are in need of treatment for Adderall abuse or addiction, seek help today. Drug Rehab Treatment Centers Henderson offers assistance finding treatment centers that will meet your needs. Call us now at (877) 804-1531.