What Does Adderall Actually Do To The Body?
Adderall is a prescription medication that combines two stimulants: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It’s most often prescribed to people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) to improve concentration and focus. However, its misuse has become a major concern, as it’s commonly used without a prescription for purposes like weight loss, staying awake to study, or recreationally at parties.
Side Effects of Adderall
Adderall, as a stimulant, can lead to a variety of physical and psychological side effects. These may include raised blood pressure due to stimulation of the central nervous system, an increased heart rate that strains the heart muscles, appetite suppression resulting in unhealthy weight loss, and a rise in core body temperature, which can disrupt normal bodily functions.
The likelihood and severity of these side effects increase significantly when Adderall is misused—either without a prescription or in higher doses than prescribed. This is especially bad because long-term misuse can weaken the cardiovascular system, leading to chronic heart problems, damage to the lungs, and strain on other vital organs.
Serious Side Effects from Misuse
Using Adderall inappropriately can have much more severe consequences, such as:
Severe anxiety and panic attacks: The overstimulation of your nervous system can trigger this, even if you’ve never experienced these symptoms before
Psychosis and hallucinations: For some individuals, Adderall can cause episodes of psychosis, which might include paranoia, delusions, or hallucinations
Hostility and aggression: Misuse can lead to irritability and sudden shifts in mood, sometimes resulting in violent outbursts
Adderall and Cardiovascular Problems
One of the most concerning risks of prolonged Adderall misuse is its impact on the heart and circulatory system. Stimulants like Adderall increase both heart rate and blood pressure, which forces the heart and arteries to work harder. Over time, this can result in:
Tachycardia (rapid heart rate): This can weaken the heart and increase the risk of heart attacks
Hypertension (high blood pressure): Prolonged high blood pressure can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of strokes
Respiratory issues: Because the drug impacts the entire cardiovascular system, it can also reduce lung capacity and lead to breathing difficulties
For individuals with undiagnosed heart conditions, Adderall misuse can be extremely dangerous, as it may increase the likelihood of heart failure or other cardiovascular events.
Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms
Since Adderall is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) (meaning it has a high potential for abuse), withdrawal from the drug can be particularly difficult. Common symptoms include extreme exhaustion and fatigue, as the body experiences a significant energy crash once the stimulant is stopped.
Strong cravings often occur as the brain becomes dependent on Adderall, making it challenging to quit without feeling compelled to resume use. Mood disturbances, such as irritability, anxiety, and even depression, are also frequent, along with nightmares caused by disrupted sleep patterns. Although Adderall withdrawal is rarely life-threatening, the process can be mentally and physically draining.
Gastrointestinal and Hormonal Effects
Adderall can have a negative impact on the digestive system by slowing muscle activity in the digestive tract, which can lead to issues such as constipation and abdominal pain - some users report experiencing nausea and/or diarrhea.
The effects of Adderall can also vary between men and women, largely due to hormonal differences. For women, the presence of estrogen during the first half of the menstrual cycle can heighten the drug's impact, leading to more pronounced side effects such as increased anxiety and insomnia, as well as a higher likelihood of headaches and dizziness. Additionally, women may experience fluctuations in libido and mood, with stronger emotional shifts or changes in sexual desire while taking the medication.
Statistics on Adderall Misuse
According to the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, about 4.3 million people aged 12 or older misused prescription stimulants, including Adderall, in the past year. Young adults, particularly college students aged 18-25, have the highest rates of misuse. Many students use Adderall to improve academic performance, stay awake longer for studying, or focus better during exams. However, this practice often leads to dependency and long-term health risks.
Adderall Addiction and Treatment
Prolonged misuse of Adderall can lead to stimulant use disorder, which is the medical term for addiction. This condition can significantly impact both mental and physical health. Treatment for Adderall addiction primarily involves:
Behavioral therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals understand the root causes of their addiction and develop healthier coping strategies.
Peer support and psychoeducation: Group therapy and education about the effects of stimulant use can aid in recovery.
Although no medications are currently approved to treat stimulant addiction, many people recover successfully through a combination of therapy and support systems, allowing them to regain control of their lives.
Written By: Alissa Zhu
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