Adderall is a type of medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is made up of the four salts of amphetamine. It contains equal parts dextroamphetamine and amphetamine, central nervous system stimulants that affect the chemicals in the brain.
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive system that affects the nervous system. It is chemically related to amphetamine. We often hear about people who have meth addictions that greatly reduce quality of life.
When we consider the ingredients and properties of Adderall and compare them to methamphetamine, we see a lot of similarities. So is Adderall a methamphetamine? Read on to find out.
Is Adderall Methamphetamine?
The short answer is no, Adderall is not methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is an addictive stimulant. It is not used to treat any sort of medical condition. When taken, it causes a rush that makes people want more of it. Those that take it long term will experience extreme mental and physical health problems.
Adderall is a prescription drug that is made to increase focus. It is used to boost concentration in people with ADHD. It can also be used to treat narcolepsy as it helps people stay awake.
Although Adderall and methamphetamine are very different, people confuse the two because they are both stimulants and they are both related to amphetamine. However, methamphetamine is much more dangerous because more of the drug gets to the brain producing harmful side effects.
The Dangers of Abusing Adderall
Even though Adderall is much less addictive than methamphetamine, there is the possibility that an addiction may form. Students often use it as a study companion because it boosts focus. In time, they become dependent on the drug and require more of it to get the same effects.
At first, Adderall may provide stimulating results. Those who use it will feel more social and more insightful. They will have increased illusions of wellness.
But in time, harmful side effects will start to kick in. These include the following:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Uncontrollable shaking
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weight loss
- Loss of sexual interest
- Headaches
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
If use continues, it can lead to even more several symptoms like:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Exhaustion
- Numbness in the exterior body parts
- Fever
- Rash
- Slowed speech
- Changes in vision
- Lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Heart and respiratory issues
- Seizures
- Blistering of the skin
- Swelling of the throat or facial features
How to Get Help With an Adderall Addiction
An Adderall addiction can greatly reduce quality of life, but there are ways to get help. The most effective treatment may be an inpatient rehab.
The process begins with an assisted detox. This involves the patient allowing their body to become cleansed from harmful toxins. They are supervised throughout to ensure they are as comfortable as possible, and that relapse does not occur.
Next, a customized therapy plan is worked out. The form of treatment may differ, but the goal is to target the underlying cause of addiction and replace harmful habits with healthy coping mechanisms.
Once inpatient rehab is completed, patients move on to an outpatient program. During this time, they gradually adjust to sober living while keeping up with regular therapy visits.
There are many inpatient rehab facilities located throughout the country, but Laguna View Detox offers an experience that sets us apart. We take a mind-body approach and believe a balance is essential in overcoming addiction. We offer a luxury setting and the best clinical team members in the industry.
So, is Adderall a methamphetamine? The answer is no, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t dangerous and addictive. If you or a loved one is dependent on Adderall, stop the cycle today. Call Laguna View Detox for the help you need in moving forward.