Millions of people in the United States take prescription stimulant medications to treat specific conditions. Adderall is one of the most common prescription stimulant drugs. People typically take it to manage the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
People who use prescription Adderall and those taking it recreationally may develop a physical dependence on it. It is important to watch for symptoms of addiction and seek treatment as quickly as possible. Untreated stimulant addiction can have long-lasting, sometimes life-threatening consequences.
This article will detail what to expect during the Adderall withdrawal timeline. You will learn about the symptoms of Adderall withdrawal and what detox treatment may be like.
Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists now to explore our treatment programs. Our intake staff will answer questions, verify insurance, and help you schedule an intake appointment. Get today to begin working toward a healthier future.
Adderall Abuse: An Overview
Adderall is a prescription stimulant drug. Doctors often prescribe stimulants like Adderall to help patients manage ADHD symptoms. People may also take it to treat other attention disorders, narcolepsy, and other conditions.
Adderall works by increasing activity in the central nervous system (CNS). Increased CNS activity may relieve symptoms associated with attention disorders, including:
- Poor attention
- Limited focus
- Agitation
- Difficulty with concentration
- Avoidance of detailed tasks
- Difficulty finishing tasks
People who take Adderall to manage ADHD often experience relief from their symptoms. They may be able to function better.
Some people abuse Adderall because they like the way it makes them feel. People may take it recreationally (without a prescription). People who misuse Adderall may experience:
- Increased energy
- Sustained focus
- Better attention
- Increased ability to complete tasks
Teens and young adults are most likely to abuse Adderall. People in these groups may use Adderall to improve their focus on schoolwork. Some may use it to enhance performance or have more energy.
Like all medications, Adderall can cause unwanted side effects. Common side effects of Adderall include:
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Stomach pain
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Anxiety
- Numbness in the limbs
- Mood changes
- Slow speech
- Fainting
- Breathing problems
- Seizures
- Headache
Unwanted side effects are less common for people who take Adderall as prescribed. People who take it without a prescription are more likely to develop unwanted or dangerous side effects.
People who abuse Adderall heavily or for a long time may develop an addiction to it. Once you have developed a physical dependence on a drug, it is very hard to quit using it. Most people with Adderall addiction require professional addiction treatment.
Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms
Adderall addiction occurs when your body develops dependence. People with Adderall addiction often experience severe withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop taking it.
Common Adderall withdrawal symptoms include:
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Aggression
- Depression with suicidal thoughts
- Fatigue
- Significant sleep pattern changes–sleeping too much or experiencing insomnia
- Increased appetite
- Weight gain
- Poor concentration
- Body aches
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
Adderall detox can be very challenging. People may find the symptoms of withdrawal very uncomfortable. Many people relapse before detox is complete.
The support of a medically supported detox program can help you stay safe, comfortable, and focused on recovery.
How Long Does Adderall Withdrawal Last?
Symptoms of withdrawal may appear 10-36 hours after the last dose of Adderall was taken and last for up to two weeks. Some people have longer-lasting and more severe symptoms than others. Factors that can influence the withdrawal timeline are:
- How often you use Adderall
- How long you have been taking Adderall
- The dose your body is used to taking
- Your age, weight, and body composition
- Metabolism and individual genetic factors
- Whether you’ve been mixing Adderall with alcohol or other drugs
The Adderall Withdrawal Timeline
The duration of Adderall or amphetamine withdrawal varies from person to person. However, withdrawal symptoms typically follow a standard timeline.
First 36 hours
You may begin to experience symptoms as soon as 10 hours after you stop taking the drug. People who take Adderall XR may not develop symptoms for up to 36 hours after their last dose. Many people experience fatigue and severe depression during this time.
Days 3-5
Withdrawal symptoms peak during the first 3-5 days of detox. You may experience depression, fatigue, headaches, nightmares, irritability, and other symptoms.
Days 6-14
Physical discomfort may begin to improve toward the end of the first week. You may still have lingering psychological symptoms, like depression or anxiety.
3 weeks and beyond
Most people report feeling much better after three weeks. Some people may experience long-term psychological symptoms that last for weeks or months.
Adderall withdrawal can be incredibly challenging. However, seeking treatment from a detox and treatment center can help you stay on track.
Treatment During Adderall Withdrawal
Adderall withdrawal can make people very uncomfortable. Most people who try to detox on their own end up relapsing before the process is complete.
Support from a medically supervised detox program is essential. During Adderall detox, a team of mental health and medical professionals will give you the support, treatment, and care you need to have a safe, complete detox.
Treatment may include:
- Medications to relieve discomfort and manage withdrawal symptoms
- Round-the-clock supervision
- Mental health support
- A safe, secure environment
- Holistic therapies for comfort, including yoga, nutrition support, and mindfulness practices
Adderall Detox Programs in San Antonio
If you or someone you love struggle with Adderall abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the team at Alamo Behavioral Health now to explore our comprehensive treatment programs.
