Adderall Addiction Treatment Dallas
Adderall is a drug that often leads to addiction. It is a prescription amphetamine, and many people use it to reach the high sensation it can offer. Even though it is offered as a prescription, its high addiction potential can quickly make recreational use turn into a bad addiction.
Sadly, anyone can develop an Adderall addiction, whether teenagers, young adults, or elders. While it can offer some pleasant feelings that addicts seek, Adderall also has uncomfortable symptoms and side effects that make the experience less pleasant.
Despite these side effects, people who developed an addiction cannot give up on the drug, finding it hard to stop by themselves or being unable to do so because of the withdrawal symptoms.
When someone abuses Adderall and develops an addiction, they must get help as soon as possible before things get worse.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription medication that contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, both of which are central nervous system stimulants. These compounds affect neurotransmitters in the brain and nerves, contributing to hyperactivity and impulse control. As a Schedule II substance, Adderall is recognized for its medical benefits and potential for abuse.
Prescribed for ADHD
Adderall is primarily prescribed for treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It helps increase attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in people with ADHD. By affecting certain chemicals in the brain, Adderall aids in focus, attention, and organizational abilities, making daily tasks more manageable for individuals with this condition.
Usage in Other Conditions
Besides ADHD, Adderall is sometimes prescribed for narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness. The stimulant properties of Adderall can help keep patients awake and alert. However, it’s worth noting that the use of Adderall for conditions other than those approved by the FDA is considered off-label and should be approached with caution.
Potential for Misuse
While Adderall has proven therapeutic benefits, it’s also known for its potential misuse as a “study drug” among students and professionals. Some individuals without ADHD may seek Adderall to enhance cognitive performance, focus, and productivity. This misuse can lead to health risks and is not recommended without a proper medical diagnosis and prescription.
How Adderall Addictions Develop
Misuse Leading to Addiction
Adderall, a stimulant containing amphetamine, is prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. However, the misuse of Adderall, especially as a “study drug,” has led to a rise in Adderall addiction. Some individuals seeking to enhance cognitive performance may start abusing Adderall, leading to stimulant use disorder. The increased risk of addiction to Adderall has caught the attention of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the National Institute of Mental Health, emphasizing the need for drug education and awareness.
Development of Dependence and Withdrawal
Continued misuse of Adderall can lead to physiological dependence, characterized by uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms such as decreased appetite, insomnia, and abdominal pain. Adderall withdrawal can be challenging to manage without professional help, such as outpatient or inpatient treatment. Treatment centers specializing in Adderall addiction treatment, like those in Dallas, offer programs that include behavioral therapy, FDA-approved medications, and ongoing support to help Adderall addicts recover.
Treatment Options and Support
Recognizing and treating Adderall addiction requires a comprehensive approach, considering physical health problems and mental disorders associated with stimulant addiction. High-quality behavioral healthcare providers, including American Addiction Centers, offer individual therapy, family therapy, and relapse prevention. Treatment admissions may include options for Adderall rehab, utilizing evidence-based practices to support those experiencing withdrawal symptoms. The focus on personalized care ensures that treatment programs meet the unique needs of those struggling with Adderall dependence, providing a path to recovery.
Signs of Adderall Addiction
Using Adderall can lead to some bad side effects, especially if someone has been addicted to the drug for a long time. Besides bad sleep, headaches, seizures, weight loss, stomach pain, and other symptoms, one may also experience increased anxiety and stimulant-induced psychosis.
Furthermore, they may try other drugs alongside it because they do not think the Adderall “high” is enough for them. When they do not use the medication, they become depressed as the brain is already used to the substance.
Some individuals may also end up dealing with more severe side effects, including:
Arm or leg numbness
Dizziness or vision changes
Chest pain
Muscular or verbal tics
Slow speech
Fever or exhaustion
Itchiness
Rashes
Hard time breathing or swallowing
Shortness of breath
Peeling or blistering skin
Tongue, eyes, face or throat swelling
Higher heart rate
Adderall Side Effects
Using Adderall can lead to some bad side effects, especially if someone has been addicted to the drug for a very long time. Apart from bad sleep, headaches, seizures, weight loss, stomach pain, and other symptoms, one may also experience increased depression and anxiety, as well as stimulant-induced psychosis.
Furthermore, they may end up trying out other drugs alongside it because they do not think the Adderall “high” is enough for them. When they do not use the medication, they become depressed as the brain is already used to the substance.
Some individuals may also end up dealing with more severe side effects, including:
- Seizures
- Arm or leg numbness
- Dizziness or vision changes
- Chest pain
- Muscular or verbal tics
- Slow speech
- Fever or exhaustion
- Itchiness
- Rashes
- Hard time breathing or swallowing
- Shortness of breath
- Peeling or blistering skin
- Tongue, eyes, face or throat swelling
- Higher heart rate
Withdrawal Symptoms
After developing an addiction to Adderall, one will find it almost impossible to give up on it, and that is because they will experience withdrawal symptoms. A person cannot usually give up on Adderall alone due to withdrawal and must undergo medical detox.
Usually, stimulant withdrawal lasts for a few days or months, depending on the person. It is very likely for some people to relapse during this time. Here are some withdrawal symptoms that may appear:
Dry mouth
Mood swings
Tremors
Having a hard time focusing
Low energy
Body pain
Short-term memory loss
Crying uncontrollably
Severe anxiety or panic attacks
Bad cravings
Reaching an Adderall Overdose
Adderall overdoses are not that common, but they are possible. An Adderall overdose is a serious medical emergency and requires immediate attention. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, please seek medical help immediately. Here are the symptoms of an Adderall overdose:
Restlessness and Tremors: Overdosing on Adderall can cause uncontrollable shaking and feeling extremely agitated or restless.
Rapid Breathing: The person may breathe very quickly, a condition known as tachypnea.
Confusion and Hallucinations: Mental confusion and hallucinations can occur, leading to irrational thoughts or behaviors.
Panic and Paranoia: Feelings of extreme panic, anxiety, or paranoia may be present.
Fever: An unusually high body temperature may develop.
Muscle Weakness and Pain: This can include unexplained muscle aches and weakness.
Nausea and Vomiting: The person may feel sick to their stomach and may vomit.
Diarrhea: This can also be a symptom of an overdose.
Rapid Heartbeat: Known as tachycardia, this can lead to other serious heart problems.
High Blood Pressure: Blood pressure may become dangerously elevated.
Dilated Pupils: The pupils may become unusually large.
Dry Mouth and Thirst: These are common symptoms of an overdose.
Seizures: In severe cases, seizures may occur.
Loss of Consciousness: The person may faint or become unresponsive.
At Real Deal Therapy and Wellness, we emphasize the importance of using prescription medications like Adderall only as directed by a healthcare provider. Misuse can lead to addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and in severe cases, an overdose. If you have concerns about Adderall or other prescription stimulants, we’re here to provide support and education. Our treatment programs include individual therapy, family therapy, and ongoing support to ensure the well-being of our patients.
Treating Adderall Addictions
Adderall addiction affects people both physically and psychologically, and for this reason, they must go through treatment. First of all, the addict must undergo medical detox.
Then, to ensure a relapse will not happen, the person will have to go through behavioral therapy to find healthier coping mechanisms and learn to avoid triggers.
How Real Deal Can Help
At Real Deal Therapy and Wellness in Dallas, TX, we understand the complexities of Adderall addiction treatment. We are committed to providing comprehensive care for those struggling with drug abuse, including Adderall abuse. Our expert team recognizes the unique challenges associated with stimulant use disorders and offers personalized substance abuse treatment plans tailored to the individual’s needs. Utilizing evidence-based approaches, we focus on the underlying causes of addiction, offering support behavioral therapies to address recovery’s physical and psychological aspects. Whether you or a loved one is grappling with substance abuse, our compassionate professionals are here to guide you on the path to healing and wellness, ensuring a supportive environment every step of the way.