We often believe that prescription drugs are inherently safer than drugs purchased illegally. And, while this can be true, prescription drugs still require caution when taking them. The news headlines are focused on the opioid crisis but you might also want to be more concerned with the medications prescribed to you. If you have been diagnosed with ADHD, you may be taking Adderall and might be asking if you can become addicted to Adderall? The short answer is yes, and if you are worried about how you’ve been using Adderall, we are here to help. At Laguna View Detox, we provide a beautiful, intimate setting for you to end your relationship with Adderall.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is the brand name for the combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. It falls into the prescription stimulant drug class along with Dexedrine and Ritalin. Healthcare providers prescribe it to treat conditions such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. You may also hear these drugs referred to as speed or uppers.
Prescription stimulants are considered Schedule II drugs, which means that they have positive effects and considerable abuse potential. Researchers have found that roughly sixty percent of children with ADHD are treated with prescription stimulants, and the data supports this treatment. However, there are also many misconceptions about Adderall which has led to its misuse. High school and college students and athletes may misuse the drug believing that it will enable them to perform better academically and physically. The abuse of drugs such as Adderall has increased over the last two decades.
Can You Become Addicted to Adderall?
Adderall works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the central nervous system. Adderall is effective because norepinephrine affects how the brain pays attention, and dopamine creates a reward. Although dopamine occurs naturally, drugs like Adderall produce unnaturally high levels of it. It is this increased reward effect that can lead to addiction. Once you become addicted to Adderall, your brain needs it to stimulate alertness and productivity. Without it you will feel tired and foggy.
It is possible to become addicted to Adderall, whether you were prescribed it or not. If you think you are addicted to using Adderall, start by asking yourself some questions, such as the following:
- Have you tried to stop using it and been unable to do so?
- Have you found yourself focused on making sure you have enough Adderall?
- Are you unable to complete any tasks without taking Adderall?
- Are you using it as prescribed, or are you using more than was prescribed to you?
- Are you using Adderall that was not prescribed to you?
- Is your use of Adderall affecting your relationships with others or your ability to fulfill your responsibilities?
If you can answer yes to some or all of these questions, you likely need to take a closer look at your Adderall use. There is really one question to ask yourself. Is your use of Adderall serving you, or is it preventing you from living your life?
How Laguna View Detox Can Help You With Addiction
At Laguna View Detox, you will get round the clock care for your addiction. We are one of the leading private drug rehab centers in Orange County. We provide luxurious, inpatient rehab treatment in one of the most beautiful areas California has to offer. Our staff includes some of the most experienced and most compassionate in the industry, and we’ll create a holistic treatment plan tailored to you. We will care for you while you safely detox and then guide you through inpatient treatment and aftercare. Contact us today and let us help you with your addiction!