Is Adderall addictive? Simply put, yes, Adderall is addictive. But what makes it addictive? The active ingredients in Adderall are amphetamine and dextroamphetamine which are synthetic substances, related to the drug methamphetamine. Amphetamines increase levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the central nervous system. Taking Adderall produces a euphoric effect or a sense of well being which is addictive.
Uses of Adderall
Adderall is a prescription medication, which is a stimulant and is used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. The medication usually comes in tablet form and can be either an immediate release or extended release version. When Adderall is not taken as prescribed, in an attempt to get high, then an individual can become addicted to the drug.
How Addictive is Adderall?
In individuals who don’t suffer from ADHD, Adderall is very addictive. It’s forceful effects on the central nervous system mean that it is often abused. It is illegal to consume Adderall without a doctor’s prescription, but many people use it to enhance performance or feel the euphoria that comes with taking it.
How Adderall Addiction Begins
If an individual is taking Adderall via prescription for a medically diagnosed disorder, then they most likely won’t form an addiction. However, if the individual starts to increase the dosage or starts taking the medication more frequently, or even starts to enjoy the focused concentration that comes with taking Adderall, then their chances of getting addicted are quite high. In other words, if Adderall is taken in a manner that is not as prescribed, then one can get addicted to it.
The following are some of the ways in which people can misuse or abuse Adderall:
- Chewing it to get the full effect immediately, rather than a controlled release.
- Crushing and snorting it
- Dissolved in water and injected
- Taking higher doses than prescribed
- Taking more frequent doses than prescribed
Adderall Addiction Signs
It is hard to tell the difference between Adderall dependence and addiction. Keep in mind that Adderall addiction usually involves intense cravings for the drug, to the point that the user feels that they cannot do without it. Some common signs of Adderall addiction are:
- Continuing to take the drug even when there are negative consequences to the individual’s social life, financial circumstances, etc.
- Craving the drug and compulsive use
- Seeking the drug to be able to stimulate the brain’s ‘reward center
Call The Villa for all your queries about Adderall addiction. We can support your goals for sober living.