Adderall is a drug used to treat ADHD. It is also used to treat sleeping disorders such as narcolepsy. It works by increasing the amount of dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Many people use Adderall to work. However, doing this for a long period of time can be dangerous.
Heart Problems
Adderall can raise your heart rate and blood pressure. The higher the dosage is, the more likely the drug is to cause heart problems. High blood pressure is a common side effect of Adderall. If high blood pressure is left untreated, then it can put a strain on the heart. Adderall can also lead to tachycardia, which is a fast heart rate.
Additionally, Adderall can weaken the heart over time. There has also been evidence to suggest that Adderall can increase the risk of sudden cardiac death. Heart attack and stroke are other possible side effects of Adderall.
Addiction
Adderall increases the amount of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a messenger that controls pleasure, movement and attention. However, this effect is temporary. People will have to keep increasing the amount of Adderall that they consume in order to get the desired effect. That is why Adderall is a very addictive drug.
Once a person becomes addicted to Adderall, it is nearly impossible to stop using the drug. A person will likely develop withdrawal symptoms if they attempt to stop using Adderall. This includes changes in appetite, drug cravings and suicidal thoughts.
It is estimated that 1 in 400 people who take Adderall will have suicidal thoughts. People who use Adderall for recreational or non-medical uses are even more likely to develop suicidal thoughts.
Mood Disturbances and Panic Attacks
Long-term Adderall use can cause mood disturbances. It can also cause panic attacks. A panic attack is a sudden feeling of disabling and acute anxiety. The flight or fight response is triggered during a panic attack. It causes the heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature to spike.
Gateway to Other Drugs
Long-term Adderall use can lead to other drugs. When the effects of Adderall wear off, people may turn to other drugs. That is why many people turn to cocaine and meth.
Neurotoxicity
Adderall can build up inside of the central nervous system. As a result of this, it can lead to schizophrenia and psychosis-like symptoms. People may begin to see and hear things that are not there.
Constricted Blood Vessels
Adderall can lead to circulation problems by causing the blood vessels to constrict. This can cause numbness in the fingers and hands. Blood vessel constriction can also cause the blood pressure to rise.
Allergic Reaction
You never know how a medication is going to affect you. It may have ingredients in it that you are allergic to. The more Adderall you take, the more likely you are to have an allergic reaction to it. Hives are a symptom of an allergic reaction. An allergic reaction can also cause your throat, face and tongue to swell.
A severe allergic reaction can be life-threatening if it is not treated. That is why people who have swelling of the face, tongue or throat should call 911 immediately.
Short of Breath
Adderall can have a negative effect on the respiratory system. It can cause shortness of breath or breathing problems. You will need to call 911 immediately if you have any of those symptoms.
It is important to remember that the effects of Adderall can vary from person to person. It is not a good idea to use this drug for work purposes because the risks outweigh the potential benefits.
If you or a loved one is struggling with Adderall abuse, please reach out to Design for Recovery sober living for available treatment options.
