Adderall Addiction
In this guide you will learn the effects of Adderall addiction and how to overcome it.
Overview
When you think of addiction and substance abuse, what comes to mind? Drugs like cocaine, alcohol, and heroin? While those are all common addictions, they’re not the only ones. There’s a growing epidemic in America of people addicted to Adderall. Despite Adderall’s legitimate purpose, college students and young professionals often abuse it trying to get ahead. As with any addictive substance, it can be hard to stop taking Adderall once you’re hooked. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to Adderall, this article will provide critical information about Adderall abuse and treatment options.
According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS), Adderall is the number one stimulant used by individuals for self-medication. Although Adderall abuse occurs in all ages, young adults and teens commonly abuse this amphetamine stimulant as a “study drug.” The NCDAS found that 4.9 million people in the United States 12 years and older are currently abusing stimulants.1

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What Is Adderall?
Is Adderall Addictive or Habit-Forming?
Prescription stimulants, like Adderall, increase the activity of brain chemicals such as dopamine and norepinephrine. Adderall is an addictive and habit-forming substance. For instance, if a person is prescribed Adderall over a period of time, they may develop tolerance and need more than initially prescribed for the same results. Unfortunately, stimulant misuse can lead to addiction .3
What Does Adderall Addiction Look Like?
Adderall Addiction Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms include:4
- Symptoms of withdrawal, such as shaking and poor sleep, when the dose is reduced or stopped
- Noticeably reduced appetite
- Requiring Adderall to carry out routine daily tasks
- Inability to stop using Adderall or reduce the amount when instructed
- Needing more of the drug to feel the same effects (tolerance)
Physical Signs of Adderall Addiction
Behavioral Signs of Adderall Addiction
Behavioral addiction signs can look like relationship difficulties, secretive behavior, legal trouble, neglecting responsibilities, isolation, unexplained need for money, increased drug tolerance, and loss of control in terms of Adderall abuse.5
Psychological Signs of Adderall Addiction
Psychological signs of addiction appear as anxiety, paranoia, lack of motivation, mood swings, irritability, and personality changes.5
Causes and Side Effects of Adderall Addiction
The following sections will explore the causes of Adderall drug addiction, the side effects of Adderall abuse, and the long-term dangers of Adderall abuse.
What Causes Adderall Addiction?
A multitude of reasons can cause Adderall drug addiction. For instance, if a person increases their dose until their body is physically dependent, they may develop a stimulant use disorder. Adderall abuse by teens and young adults can also lead to addiction. People with depression or other mood disorders have been found to self-medicate their symptoms with stimulant prescriptions such as Adderall.
Adderall Addiction Side Effects
Short-Term Side Effects
Short-term side effects include hyperactivity, loss of appetite, insomnia, emotional instability, dry mouth, and social withdrawal.6
Long-Term Side Effects
The lasting side effects of Adderall drug addiction are increased risk of anorexia, anxiety, depression, changes in libido, and neurotoxicity.6
Dangers of Adderall Addiction
Addiction to Adderall and other stimulants is incredibly dangerous. Poor judgment, a lesser ability to adapt, and impulsivity are associated with stimulant drug abuse. During the beginning stages of addiction to Adderall, an individual’s judgment becomes clouded. Later on, increased impulsive and compulsive behavior makes it more challenging to stop misusing Adderall.7
Adderall Combinations and Overdose
As with many other drugs, addiction to Adderall can involve dangerous drug combinations. The following sections will provide examples of commonly combined drugs and critical Adderall overdose information.
Drugs Commonly Combined with Adderall
Among teens and young adults, Adderall is commonly combined with alcohol. Mixing alcohol and Adderall can increase blood pressure and the risk of alcohol overdose. Regulated prescription drugs and street drugs each come with unique risks. For that reason, Adderall should never be taken in combination with other substances unless approved by your doctor.8
Adderall Overdose
Symptoms of Adderall overdose can include confusion, aggressive behavior, hallucinations, fast breathing, uncontrollable shaking, fever, irregular heartbeat, blurred vision, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and coma. If you’re concerned someone is experiencing overdose, call emergency services immediately.
Proper and Safe Adderall Dosage
Appropriate Adderall dosage and medical care are crucial to preventing addiction to Adderall. Since Adderall can be habit-forming, individuals should never take a larger or more frequent dose than prescribed by their doctor. Addiction to Adderall symptoms can occur if the drug is misused. Safe dosages vary based on many factors, including age, medical history, etc. Each person should adhere to their medical provider’s instructions.
Adderall Addiction Treatment

If you notice signs of addiction, it’s imperative for the person struggling to seek addiction treatment. The following sections will provide guidance about rehab for Adderall addiction and the options available.
Adderall Addiction Rehab Options at Concise Recovery
When it comes to recovery, people typically participate in a medically supervised detoxification program, residential treatment, and outpatient counseling. Keep in mind everyone’s recovery path looks different and may not include each of these components. The best way to determine what treatment an individual needs is to schedule a comprehensive substance use assessment with a licensed professional.
Detoxification
At the beginning of an Adderall addiction treatment program, participants must safely detox under the supervision of a medical professional. A detox program can help reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms and ensure a person is safe.
Inpatient Residential
Inpatient and residential treatment programs allow people to participate in group therapy and individual counseling while establishing a solid foundation in sobriety. Generally, inpatient programs last one to six months.
Outpatient Rehab
Following detox and inpatient treatment, aftercare involves outpatient substance use treatment. During outpatient, licensed therapists treat stimulant use disorders using various therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is an effective tool that helps people modify their behaviors while managing triggers and stress.
Adderall Addiction Withdrawal Symptoms
The side effects of addiction include uncomfortable and dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms such as depression, anxiety, shaking, sensitivity to touch, and sleep disturbances are associated with Adderall addiction.
Get Help Now
If you or a loved one is struggling with Adderall misuse, now’s the time to get help! Stimulant use disorders are 100% treatable. Concise Recovery, addiction treatment center in California, is uniquely positioned to help individuals of all ages seeking addiction treatment. Call today to discuss your options with one of our knowledgeable team members!
References
- https://drugabusestatistics.org/prescription-drug-abuse-statistics/
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601234.html
- https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/prescription-stimulants
- https://www.semel.ucla.edu/dual-diagnosis-program/Conditions_Treated/Stimulant_Addictions
- https://www.ihs.gov/asap/familyfriends/warningsignsdrug/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2670101/
- https://www.apa.org/monitor/2011/10/stimulants
- https://nida.nih.gov/drug-topics/commonly-used-drugs-charts