Substance abuse disorders are chronic, incurable conditions that can impact your brain chemistry, cognition, and behavior. Both illicit and prescription medications pose the risk of physical and psychological addiction. Some of the most commonly prescribed medications, such as Adderall, can cause addiction. Many teens and young adults are prescribed Adderall, which is used to treat conditions like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) teens and young adults. But what are the long-term side effects of Adderall?
While Adderall is very effective in treating symptoms related to ADHD, it is a physically addictive central nervous system stimulant that is commonly abused. The long-term effects of Adderall can not only lead to physical and/or psychological dependency but can also cause serious medical problems. Call 208.518.0797 to discover help at our Adderall addiction treatment in Idaho. We help teens and adults attain the life they deserve.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall was created in the 1960s as an amphetamine-based drug. It was originally marketed under the name ‘Obetrol’ and used primarily for weight loss. However, in the 1990s, it was rebranded as Adderall and became a popular treatment for ADHD. It is classified as a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. Adderall works by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which are neurotransmitters that play a crucial role in regulating attention, behavior, and motivation. This increase in neurotransmitters helps to improve focus, impulse control, and organization in individuals with ADHD. Despite its effectiveness in treating ADHD symptoms, Adderall also has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Due to its similarity to amphetamines, it is often used recreationally as a “study drug” or performance enhancer.
Adderall causes your brain to release dopamine and norepinephrine, which causes stimulating effects such as:
- Euphoria
- Increased energy
- Improved cognitive functioning
- Increased heart rate
- Insomnia
Adderall comes in a pill form and is supposed to be administered orally. However, many Adderall users choose to inhale Adderall in order to increase its potency. Long-term effects of Adderall use can cause addiction and lead to medical and mental health problems.
What Are the Long-Term Side Effects of Adderall?
The long-term side effects of Adderall use can cause physical, cognitive, and mental health problems. Long term side effects of Adderall use and abuse include:
- Sleep deprivation and psychosis
- Weight loss
- Heart problems
- Paranoia
- Mood changes, such as increased anger and irritation
- Physical and psychological addiction
Long-term side effects of Adderall use and abuse typically require medical and substance abuse treatment. Your brain can become dependent on Adderall in order to release dopamine and norepinephrine, which can lead to mood swings and intense cravings. Long-term side effects of Adderall can also cause impaired judgment and cognitive problems.
How Is Adderall Addiction Treated?
Since the long-term side effects of Adderall abuse include addiction, you may experience painful and overwhelming withdrawal symptoms when you decide to immediately stop using. Withdrawal symptoms can begin within 24 hours of your last use and last for several days.
Our Adderall addiction treatment in Idaho can help you recover and provide you with access to inpatient and outpatient programs. Both inpatient and outpatient programs offer a mix of evidence-based and holistic therapies that help you learn how to cope with cravings and triggers. Triggers can induce cravings long after you achieve sobriety, making it important to learn healthy coping skills. Individual, group, and family therapy programs ensure that you learn how to identify and change negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while strengthening your relationship with your loved ones.
While addiction is a chronic condition, substance abuse treatment is the most effective way to maintain long-term recovery. Recovery outcomes are much more positive when you complete a treatment program and can greatly decrease your chances of experiencing a relapse. Treatment programs can offer both short-term and long-term programs depending on you or your loved one’s individualized needs.
Call Zelus Recovery Today
The long-term side effects of Adderall can lead to damaging consequences. Adderall addiction can cause mood and behavioral changes, medical problems, and neurological damage, making early treatment extremely important. The sooner you reach out for help when you or your loved one is struggling with an Adderall addiction, the better your recovery chances are. If you would like to find out more about our substance abuse programs, contact Zelus Recovery today at 208.518.0797.
