Adderall Abuse Symptoms & Warning Signs
Adderall is a commonly used drug. To be exact, around 2.5 million American citizens are prescribed Adderall or Ritalin. However, this number does not encompass the many people who are not prescribed the drug but take it to improve their performance at school or work. Since Adderall is relatively accessible and has very potent effects, it is easy to begin abusing the drug, which can lead to addiction. Here, we’ll explore Adderall abuse symptoms and warning sings so that you know what to look for.
If you or your loved one need a safe space to recover from addiction, contact Myrtle Beach Recovery to learn more about our short- and long-term recovery programs.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is classified as stimulant, which is a form of amphetamine. Thus, a prescription is required to obtain it. It is primarily prescribed to treat those who are diagnosed with ADD and ADHD. When taken as directed, the drug stimulates productivity and alertness to help patients stay focused.
What is Adderall Abuse?
Adderall abuse differs from Adderall addiction. Abuse is considered taking the drug in a way that it is not prescribed. For instance, some forms of Adderall abuse include the following behaviors:
- Taking more of the drug than recommended
- Crushing and snorting the Adderall pill to increase its effects
- Taking Adderall although it’s not prescribed to you
Addiction, on the other hand, is classified by relying on the drug just to feel “normal.” When not taking the drug, those who are addicted will experience intense cravings and mild to severe withdrawal symptoms.
Symptoms of Adderall Abuse
Adderall has similar effects to methamphetamine, which is an illegal stimulant. When someone has recently taken Adderall, symptoms of the drug include:
- An intense desire to work
- Talking quickly and more than usual
- Hyperactivity
- Increased sociability
- Feeling of anxiety, nervousness
- Impatience
When someone has recently abused Adderall and the drug is no longer in their system, other symptoms arise. These may better help you identify if your loved one is abusing Adderall:
- Trouble sleeping, including either insomnia or difficulty staying awake
- Aggressive shaking of a particular body part, such as a leg or foot
- Persistent nausea
- Frequent headaches
- Weight loss
- Trouble with bowel movements, including either constipation or diarrhea
Who is at Risk?
Adderall is commonly known as a “study drug,” allowing students to stay more focused on their studies for extended periods of time. Thus, both college students and high school students are more likely to abuse Adderall. However, those who work high-stress jobs are at risk as well, as many take the drug to ensure they meet tight deadlines.
Consider Myrtle Beach Recovery
Knowing these Adderall abuse symptoms and warning signs can help you recognize when the drug use has gone too far for both yourself and others. If you are abusing Adderall or are struggling to maintain your sobriety, consider reaching out to Myrtle Beach Recovery. We offer short-term and long-term recovery programs, providing a safe place to work through the 12 Steps.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you on your path to sobriety.
