What Are Prescription Stimulants?
Prescription stimulants, or amphetamines, are commonly prescribed for narcolepsy and ADHD. While these medications can be effective when taken as prescribed by a medical professional, prescription stimulants also have a high potential for misuse and dependence. Because of this, prescription stimulants like Adderall are categorized as Schedule II controlled substances by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Common Prescription Stimulants
- Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine)
- Dextroamphetamine/amphetamine combo (Adderall)
- Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
- Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)
- Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
Stimulants like Adderall work by increasing norepinephrine and dopamine levels in the central nervous system. Norepinephrine is a chemical that affects how a person pays attention and the speed with which the brain reacts to stimuli, and dopamine is a “feel good” neurotransmitter. This combination of chemicals increases alertness, focus, and productivity. When taken in high doses, Adderall can lead to feelings of pleasure and euphoria.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is the brand name for the combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. When taken as prescribed to treat ADHD or narcolepsy, Adderall is effective and generally safe to use. The medication is taken in a time-released or instant-release tablet and is generally taken in the morning because sleeplessness is a common side effect. Adderall works by increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
Despite the fact that Adderall is habit-forming, it is the most widely prescribed prescription stimulant in the country. According to one study, 41.4 million Americans were prescribed Adderall in 2021. This is an increase of 10.4% from the year prior.
What Are the Effects of Adderall?
When taken in higher doses than prescribed, Adderall use can lead to a host of negative side effects, including irritability, agitation, mood swings, severe anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia. Adderall use is most common among young adults, specifically those in college. Known as “the study drug,” students abuse Adderall to increase their productivity and focus.
However, even misusing Adderall for a short period of time can lead to the development of physical dependence. Adderall addiction treatment in Boulder, CO, can help clients as they free themselves of dependency.
Signs and Symptoms of Adderall Addiction
The symptoms associated with Adderall addiction can be both physical and behavioral. Physical symptoms of Adderall addiction include weight loss, increased energy levels, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. Behavioral symptoms of Adderall addiction include illegally obtaining the medication, attempting to get more than one Adderall prescription written at a time (doctor shopping), and mood swings.
The most consistent symptoms that indicate an Adderall use disorder are:
- Repeatedly attempting to quit but being unable to quit for a significant period.
- Intense and overwhelming Adderall cravings.
- Spending a disproportionate amount of time obtaining Adderall, using Adderall, and recovering from its effects.
- Neglecting personal responsibilities and obligations.
- Stealing from loved ones.
- Developing a physical tolerance.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when Adderall use is abruptly stopped.
- Continuing to use Adderall despite personal consequences.
- Physical and psychological issues that are exacerbated by Adderall use.
- An increase in risk-taking behaviors linked to Adderall use.
Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms
Generally speaking, medical detox is a recommended first step on the road to Adderall addiction recovery. In medical detox, a person undergoes a safe, pain-free heroin withdrawal. Once they have been physically stabilized, they transition into the stage of the treatment process. The symptoms associated with Adderall withdrawal are largely psychological. They include anxiety, panic attacks, depressed mood, suicidal ideation, insomnia, and other sleep-related issues.
If a person stops using Adderall suddenly, they are at risk of developing a wide range of physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms. The most common symptoms of Adderall withdrawal include:
- Irritability and agitation
- Increased appetite, which can lead to temporary weight gain
- Insomnia, persistent nightmares, and other sleep-related issues
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts and ideation
- General feelings of physical discomfort
Treatment Options for Adderall Addiction
The most effective treatment options for Adderall addiction depend on the individual client’s unique needs. In most cases, a multi-staged Afferall addiction treatment program proves to be the most effective.
The levels of clinical care we offer during Adderall addiction treatment in Boulder, CO, include the following:
- The Recovery Ranch Program — Our inpatient rehab in Colorado provides clients with 24/7 care in a comfortable, supportive environment. Clients participate in 6 hours of intensive therapeutic and holistic programming, followed by participation in a range of recovery-friendly activities.
- Intensive Outpatient Treatment — We offer daytime and evening Intensive Outpatient treatment (IOP). Our IOP program includes individual and group therapy, relapse prevention training, vocational training, and other treatment services.
- Day Treatment — Our Day Treatment program resembles a traditional Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP). Therapeutic groups meet Monday through Friday from the morning until the afternoon. PHP is a step above IOP and below inpatient rehab regarding program intensity and commitment level.
- Sober Living — Sober living facilities can be an excellent accompaniment to rehab during and after treatment. Our Boulder sober living home is comfortable and structured, providing residents with the accountability they need to thrive in their newfound lives of recovery.
