Millions of people use prescription stimulant drugs to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other conditions. Adderall is one of the most commonly prescribed stimulants used in the treatment of ADHD.
Some people misuse Adderall, which can lead to physical dependence and addiction. People who become addicted to Adderall typically require treatment and ongoing support to quit abusing it.
This article will explore how long Adderall stays in the body after you stop taking it.
What you will learn:
- How Adderall works
- Adderall’s side effects
- What happens during Adderall withdrawal
- How long Adderall can be detected on drug tests
- Where to find Adderall addiction treatment
If you or someone you love struggles with Adderall addiction, you are not alone. Alamo Behavioral Health offers comprehensive, compassionate addiction and mental health treatment. Contact our intake team to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake assessment.
What is Adderall?
Adderall and Adderall XR are prescription stimulant drugs. Doctors may prescribe Adderall to help patients manage the symptoms of ADHD and other conditions.
Adderall stimulates central nervous system (CNS) activity. In people with ADHD, this can reduce symptoms like:
- Poor concentration
- Agitation
- Difficulty maintaining focus
People with ADHD who take Adderall may be able to sustain attention, complete tasks, and stay focused on projects, which can lead to improved daily functioning.
Some people take Adderall recreationally (without a prescription) for its stimulant effects. People who do not have ADHD may experience side effects that include:
- Increased energy
- Improved concentration
- Ability to sustain attention for longer periods
Teens and young adults are among the most likely groups to abuse Adderall. Young people may take Adderall to have more energy, to study more effectively, or to enhance their performance in sports or other activities.
Side Effects of Adderall Abuse
People who misuse Adderall may experience unwanted side effects. In some cases, the side effects of Adderall may be dangerous. Common side effects of Adderall abuse include:
- Dizziness
- Stomach pain
- Mood changes
- Anxiety
- Weight loss
- Slowed speech
- Numbness in the arms and legs
- Breathing problems
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetite
- Fainting
- Seizures
Abusing Adderall increases the risk of unwanted or dangerous side effects. People who abuse Adderall may develop physical dependence or addiction.
It is crucial to get help if you abuse Adderall. People who take prescription Adderall should discuss any new or worsening side effects they experience.
Understanding Adderall Withdrawal
People who develop a physical dependence on Adderall may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it.
Common Adderall withdrawal symptoms include:
- Mood swings
- Aggression
- Anxiety
- Weight gain
- Poor concentration
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Panic attacks
- Body aches
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
These symptoms occur as the body removes drugs and other toxins. They can also continue long after a drug is no longer present in the body.
How Long Does Adderall Stay in Your System?
Many factors can affect how long Adderall stays in your body. Factors including your body weight and composition, age, general health, and more can impact how long it takes to eliminate Adderall from your systems.
Drug tests can detect Adderall in different bodily systems. Here is an overview of how long drug tests may detect Adderall.
Urine tests
Urine testing is the most common form of drug screening in the United States. Medical reviewers prefer this method of testing because it is inexpensive and non-invasive. This type of testing can detect Adderall in urine for up to 96 hours after your last dose.
Saliva tests
Saliva testing has a shorter detection window than urinalysis. Adderall may show up on a saliva test for up to 50 hours after your last dose.
Blood tests
Your body begins to metabolize (process and eliminate) Adderall as soon as you take it. This process creates Adderall byproducts that remain in the blood. Blood testing may detect Adderall and its byproducts for up to 50 hours after your last dose.
Hair tests
Hair testing is uncommon. However, it has the longest detection window of any type of drug screening. Hair tests may detect Adderall for up to 90 days after your last dose.
If you are concerned about Adderall appearing on a drug test, it may be a sign that you need addiction treatment. During Adderall addiction treatment, you will receive medical care, emotional support, and education to help you overcome addiction. This may include medically-supported detox programs, mental health treatment, counseling, relapse prevention education, and holistic therapies.
Addiction is treatable. Get the help you need and deserve as soon as you recognize the signs of addiction. The sooner you seek treatment, the sooner you can begin to work toward the healthy future you deserve.
Find Adderall Addiction Treatment Now
Overcoming Adderall addiction can be challenging, but receiving the right treatment can help you do it. Contact the specialists at Alamo Behavioral Health to learn more about our treatment and support programs. Learn about our holistic approach to addiction recovery, verify your insurance, or ask questions by reaching out today.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnosis, Treatment, and Telehealth Use in Adults — National Center for Health Statistics Rapid Surveys System, United States, October–November 2023
- CDC: Trends in Stimulant Prescription Fills Among Commercially Insured Children and Adults — United States, 2016–2021
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Adderall
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine
- Journal of Analytical Toxicology: Urinary Excretion of d-Amphetamine Following Oral Doses in Humans: Implications for Urine Drug Testing
