Long-Term Effects of Adderall Addiction

Adderall has helped millions of people achieve a better quality of life. Unfortunately, this drug is also frequently abused. The potential long-term effects of Adderall abuse and addiction can have a profound negative impact on a person’s physical, psychological, and social well-being.

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is the brand name of a prescription medication that contains two stimulants: racemic amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It is most commonly prescribed to people who have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It may also be used to treat narcolepsy.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), about 8.7% of adolescents and about 4.4% of adults in the United States have ADHD. Experts estimate that more than 60% of these individuals take Adderall or another prescription medication to help them manage their symptoms. 

When a person with ADHD takes Adderall as directed by their prescribing physician, they may experience the following beneficial effects:

• Improved concentration and focus
• Longer attention span
• Less likely to be distracted
• Diminished impulsivity
• Better retention and recall of information

These effects can have a significant positive impact on a person’s ability to function at work, in school, and in other important areas of life. They have also led many people to abuse the drug. 

Why Do People Abuse Adderall?

Many people who don’t have ADHD abuse Adderall in an attempt to improve their focus, concentration, and learning capacity. 

Among both students and professionals, Adderall has developed a reputation as a performance-enhancing substance for the mind. Whether they are cramming for a final exam or pulling an all-nighter to finish an important presentation, people who are seeking to illicitly boost their cognitive capacity often turn to Adderall abuse.

In other cases, people abuse Adderall for recreational purposes. As a stimulant (a category that also includes cocaine), Adderall can increase a person’s energy and improve their mood. It may also enhance the effects of certain other recreational substances. 

Regardless of why a person begins to misuse this drug, the potential long-term effects of Adderall abuse include addiction and a host of other distressing outcomes.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Adderall Addiction?

The following signs and symptoms may indicate that a person has become addicted to Adderall:

• They develop powerful cravings for the drug.
• They spend a considerable amount of time acquiring and using it.
• They attempt to buy, borrow, or steal Adderall that has been prescribed to someone else.
• They lie to one or more doctors in order to get a prescription for Adderall.
• They continue to use Adderall even after experiencing physical, psychological, or social problems due to prior use.
• They need to use larger amounts of Adderall to achieve the effects that they were previously able to experience via smaller doses.
• When they can’t acquire or use Adderall, they become angry, agitated, or irritated.
• They use Adderall in ways that are clearly hazardous, such as by combining it with alcohol or other drugs.
• They lie to or otherwise deceive friends and family members about the amount and frequency of their Adderall use.
• They have dramatic mood swings and changes in energy level.
• Their appetite changes, which leads to unintentional weight loss
• When they try to stop using Adderall, they find that they are unable to do so.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Adderall Addiction?

The following are examples of the many potential long-term effects of Adderall abuse and addiction:

• Insomnia
• Unhealthy weight loss
• Malnutrition
• Impaired brain functioning
• Cardiovascular damage
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Seizure
• High blood pressure
• Anxiety and/or depression
• Psychosis
• Paranoia
• Legal problems, such as being arrested, fined, and jailed
• Medical problems due to aggressive or reckless behaviors
• Job loss and unemployment
• Financial difficulties

Contrary to the persistent myth, a person doesn’t have to hit “rock bottom” before they can get help for an addiction. The sooner someone gets the care they need, the less likely they are to experience continued long-term effects of Adderall abuse and addiction.

How Is Adderall Addiction Treated in Atlanta, GA?

Adderall addiction treatment has two primary goals: to help a person end their Adderall use and to prepare them for long-term recovery.

To accomplish this, effective treatment for Adderall addiction can include a variety of therapies and support services. To build a foundation for successful recovery, people may need to acquire important information, develop new skills, adopt relapse-prevention strategies, and make certain lifestyle changes. Therapy can be an essential part of this effort.

When a person receives care at Inner Voyage Recovery Center, their customized treatment plan may include elements such as these:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Individual and group therapy
• Family support services
• Adventure therapy
• Trauma-informed care

We also offer Christian counseling services for those who wish to incorporate principles of their religious faith into their treatment. 

Begin Treatment for Adderall Addiction in Atlanta, GA

Inner Voyage Recovery Center offers personalized treatment and comprehensive support for adults who have become addicted to Adderall and other prescription medications. Our Adderall addiction treatment center in Georgia features customized programming at three outpatient levels: a partial hospitalization program (PHP), an intensive outpatient program (IOP), and an outpatient rehab. 

When you’re ready to end your Adderall abuse and begin your journey toward successful recovery, the Inner Voyage team is here for you. Visit our admissions page or contact us directly to learn more.