The Origin of Adderall and How It Became Addictive
Many don’t know the origin of Adderall and how prescription drugs can cause some of the most dangerous addictions. While they may have legitimate medical benefits, they can be devastating when abused. Adderall addiction is a perfect example.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is the brand name of a prescription drug that combines two stimulants. Adderall is used widely to treat behavioral disorders such as ADD and ADHD. The medicine is designed to increase the amount of dopamine in the brain, helping some patients function better.
Unfortunately, not all Adderall use is prescribed by physicians. Many individuals take Adderall in a recreational capacity, meaning that they don’t actually need it for any medical reason. Instead, individuals take Adderall for its stimulant properties.
Reasons Individuals Abuse Adderall
There are a variety of reasons that individuals abuse Adderall. Some people use Adderall in college to help them focus on schoolwork or stay up longer to study. This is one of the reasons that Adderall use is so common on college campuses. In fact, most college students refer to Adderall as a “study drug.” According to the Medicine Abuse Project, over 31% of college students have used stimulants like Adderall at some point during college.
Some abuse Adderall because they believe that it will suppress their appetite and lead to weight loss. Others use it improperly because they think it’ll give them an edge in athletic performance.
Adderall is also frequently taken with other drugs, or with alcohol, to increase or intensify a high. Some users even take Adderall rather than cocaine, often because they are under the impression that Adderall is somehow healthier or less problematic than street drugs. The reality is that when used improperly and without medical supervision, Adderall is just as dangerous as any other drug.
Adderall Addiction Side Effects
Adderall abuse and addiction can lead to a number of dangerous and unpleasant side effects. Perhaps the worst is the fact that addiction to any drug can lead to broken relationships, career problems, mental health issues or financial ruin. Some of the Adderall addiction side effects can include:
- Increased tolerance leading to higher dosage
- Extreme fatigue and insomnia
- Increased risk of depression
- Heart disease and heart palpitations
- Violence and increased hostility
- Chronic dry mouth
- Constipation
- Headaches
- Potential risk for death from stroke or heart attack
Factors Contributing to Widespread Adderall Addiction
Given the many negative side effects of an Adderall addiction, it’s natural to wonder why so many people still choose to try this drug. A major factor is a lack of understanding of what the drug is and how potent it can be. Many users, particularly young people, think of it as a harmless alternative to “street” drugs.
Another issue is that physicians frequently over-prescribe Adderall and similar stimulants to anyone who describes the symptoms of ADD or ADHD. A complete examination of patients may help doctors to better weed out those who are only looking to use Adderall as a recreational drug or illegally sell it to others.
An Adderall addiction doesn’t have to be a life sentence. Fortunately, with the right treatment at a drug rehab facility, you can transform your life for the better. Let Recovery Connection find you the best possible drug rehab center. Call 866-812-8231 to learn more and begin your journey to recovery.
