Millions of people in the United States take prescription stimulant drugs to manage attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other conditions. Some of these prescription drugs have the potential for misuse and addiction.
Adderall is a prescription medication that has a risk for abuse and dependence. Adderall addiction can cause short and long-term harm to your mental and physical health. Most people with Adderall addiction require comprehensive treatment to overcome it and avoid relapse.
Many people with Adderall addiction require comprehensive detox services. This article will explore what to expect during treatment at an Adderall detox center. You will learn:
What you will learn:
- The effects and risks of Adderall abuse
- What happens during Adderall withdrawal
- What treatment is available in a detox program
- Where to find an Adderall detox in San Antonio
If you or someone you love struggles with Adderall abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to explore our detox, treatment, and recovery support programs. Reach out with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription stimulant drug. Adderall contains two stimulants: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It increases central nervous system (CNS) activity and may enhance the activity of certain neurotransmitters (brain chemicals). Doctors may prescribe Adderall or other stimulants to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
People who take prescription Adderall to manage ADHD or other conditions are not likely to develop dependence. However, some people abuse Adderall by using it differently than prescribed. Or, in some cases, people take Adderall recreationally (without a prescription) for its stimulant effects.
Some examples of Adderall abuse include:
- Using a larger dose than prescribed
- Taking Adderall more often than prescribed
- Using Adderall longer than prescribed
- Ingesting Adderall differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting pills
- Taking Adderall without a prescription
Adderall abuse can lead to unwanted, dangerous side effects and addiction.
The Effects and Risks of Adderall Abuse
Adderall increases CNS activity. It makes more norepinephrine and dopamine (neurotransmitters) available in the brain, which can increase wakefulness, attention, and energy levels in people who use it.
Like other drugs, Adderall has the potential to cause unwanted side effects, including:
- Anxiety
- Decreased appetite
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Sleep problems
- Stomach pain
In rare cases, people may experience more severe side effects, including:
- Aggression
- Blurred vision
- Chest pain
- Delusional thinking
- Fainting
- Hallucinations
- Increased blood pressure
- Racing thoughts
People who misuse Adderall are more likely to experience unwanted side effects than those taking it as prescribed.
Over time, heavy Adderall use or abuse may lead to addiction. Signs of Adderall addiction include:
- Cravings for Adderall
- Needing to use more Adderall to get the desired effects
- Mixing Adderall and other substances
- Feeling sluggish or unmotivated when not taking Adderall
- Spending a lot of time getting, using, and recovering from using Adderall
- Buying or stealing Adderall
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it
People who become addicted to Adderall typically require the support of an addiction recovery center. Comprehensive addiction treatment can help people overcome addiction and learn to avoid relapse.
What Happens at an Adderall Detox Program?
Many with Adderall addiction require medical detox services. During rehab, people typically live in the rehab center and follow an individualized treatment plan.
Medical detox programs focus on helping people manage Adderall withdrawal symptoms, which may include:
- Aggression
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Depression
- Difficulty concentrating
- Drastic changes in sleep patterns–either sleeping too much or struggling to sleep
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Muscle aches and malaise
- Suicidal thoughts
Many people find Adderall withdrawal to be very challenging. Throughout detox, medical and mental health professionals will provide round-the-clock treatment. Your treatment plan may include:
- Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms
- Treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Education and counseling for family members, when appropriate
- Holistic therapies, like mindfulness, massage, exercise, and nutrition support
- A safe, secure environment
A medically-supported detox program can help people reduce dangerous or uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Medical professionals will work with you to find effective medications. Common medications used during Adderall detox include:
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Antidepressants
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Medications to help you sleep well
The support and consistent treatment people receive in an Adderall addiction treatment center can ensure a safe, complete detox.
After detox, you must participate in a comprehensive treatment program to help you work toward long-term recovery. A comprehensive program may include:
- Medications
- Mental health treatment
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Relapse prevention education
- Coping skills
- Aftercare planning
It is essential to have holistic support during detox and throughout your recovery. Education, therapies, medical care, and other treatments can help you address the complex roots of your substance abuse. Then, you can work toward the healthier, more fulfilling future you choose.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love is struggling with Adderall addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our detox and treatment programs. Reach out to explore your treatment options or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Adderall label
- Springer Link: Amphetamine Withdrawal
