What is Adderall?

Adderall is a stimulant medication typically prescribed to treat the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other mental health disorders such as narcolepsy. Adderall works to increase dopamine levels in the brain while improving concentration and focus. Dopamine is a “feel good” neurotransmitter in the brain that produces rewarding feelings of pleasure and motivation that frequently results in individuals abusing Adderall. When you stop taking the drug, dopamine levels drop, and your body and brain chemistry need to readjust.

There are two common types of Adderall: instant and extended-release (Adderall XR)

Regular Adderall (instant-release) starts working quickly but wears off in about 4 hours. Extended-release Adderall lasts for 8 to 12 hours and is often taken twice a day. Since instant-release Adderall works instantly, the effects wear off in several hours, leaving the body relatively fast. Contrarily, Adderall XR builds up and remains in the body longer.

Adderall Addiction

Adderall XR is a stimulant medication typically prescribed to patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other mental health disorders to help them improve concentration and attention. Taking the drug for an extended period can put you at risk of Adderall abuse. Although not everyone who takes prescription stimulants like Adderall will develop an addiction, those who regularly take prescription drugs of any kind are at higher risks of becoming addicted compared to those who take them for a short period, such as a few weeks.

Addictions can develop quickly due to the pleasurable and stimulating effects that the drug provides, which is one of the main reasons why Adderall addictions are so common. Going cold turkey without Adderall often leaves those addicted feeling lethargic and mentally foggy.

Adderall addiction is a very serious issue that can lead to the development of an anxiety disorder, a damaged heart, and an increased risk of seizures. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of addiction, including mood swings, restlessness, and changes in sleep patterns. Recovering from an Adderall addiction requires a focused approach that addressed the core cause of addiction and minimizes stimulant withdrawal symptoms.

Signs of Adderall addiction

Adderall addiction can be difficult to spot. However, there are a few key signs to determine whether someone suffers from an Adderall dependency. These include taking the drug without a prescription, neglecting responsibilities such as work or family life, taking higher doses than prescribed, and experiencing intense cravings for the drug.

Is Adderall Addictive? How Does an Addiction Develop?

Adderall can be an addictive drug, especially when taken at higher doses for a prolonged period. Adderall addiction is most common in individuals prescribed to treat ADHD or other mental health conditions that take the drug to help alleviate their symptoms.

Addiction develops over time due to the increased dopamine release that occurs when taking the drug, which leads to feelings of euphoria. Dependence can also develop due to the body becoming physically dependent on the drug for functioning and feeling normal. Lastly, tolerance develops when an individual needs to increase their dose to achieve the same desired effects as before.

One of the main reasons that addiction develops is that many people use the drug to focus and concentrate on tasks more effectively. As they use it for this purpose more and more, a dependence begins to develop. This makes individuals feel as if Adderall is the only way they can really get important things done. It is important to recognize that this is just a mental reflex that is trying to preserve the euphoria and dopamine release that Adderall triggers. Over time, the body will lose its natural ability to focus and begin to rely on Adderall in order to get motivated to get anything done.

Adderall addiction can develop after using Adderall regularly for between 5 to 7 days. After using the drug for this length of time, the body begins to develop a tolerance. As you begin to use more to achieve the desired effects, your body can begin to become dependent on the drug for the dopamine trigger as well as the energy and focus it provides. 

The most common signs of a developing Adderall addiction include:

  • Anxiety
  • Chest pain
  • Confusion
  • Decreased appetite
  • Dehydration
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Extreme tiredness or fatigue
  • Headache
  • High blood pressure
  • Increased heart rate

After you make the decision to quit the prescription medication, withdrawal symptoms can make it difficult to stick to your commitment. If you notice any of the Adderall withdrawal symptoms listed below, it is recommended that you reach out to a medical professional for assistance.

Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms

Adderall withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable and difficult to manage without medical care from a treatment provider. Many experience Adderall withdrawal symptoms that are mild and primarily include physical symptoms such as:

  • Nausea & vomiting
  • Tremors
  • Insomnia
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness

However, in some cases, more severe psychological symptoms can occur, such as the following symptoms:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Panic attacks
  • Paranoia
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Sleep disturbances/trouble sleeping

Amphetamine withdrawal syndrome is rare but can occur in some individuals with chronic amphetamine addiction. If you have been taking Adderall and abruptly stop, you will likely experience an Adderall crash lasting a day or two and then experience drug cravings and a withdrawal period that can persist between five days and three weeks or longer. Adderall dependence is a serious problem that requires professional assistance.

Symptoms of withdrawal can vary in severity based on the frequent doses and amount of abused Adderall. It is important to be aware that Adderall withdrawal symptoms can last several weeks or even months. If you need help managing withdrawal symptoms, the medical professionals at our drug rehab in Los Angeles specialize in Adderall withdrawal and detox services.

Risks of Adderall Addiction

If you notice the signs of addiction or withdrawal and feel like you are becoming addicted, it is important to seek help early. The longer you put off treatment, the more difficult the withdrawal process will be and the longer the withdrawal timeline will be. The dangers of amphetamine addiction and withdrawal from Adderall are extensive. People who become addicted to Adderall can suffer from a wide variety of health problems, both short and long-term. Some of the serious dangers of amphetamine addiction include:

  • Increased risk of heart attack or stroke
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Psychosis
  • Seizures
  • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
  • Loss of motor control, coordination, and balance
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Respiratory depression
  • Death from overdose or complications

It is essential to get help for an Adderall addiction as soon as possible to avoid any of these risks. Seeking treatment from a medical professional can ensure that you safely and effectively detox from Adderall and begin the recovery process.

Adderall Detox & Addiction Treatment Services

The detox process is an important first step in treating amphetamine addiction as it rids the body of the addictive substance and helps to restore a proper balance of the body and mind. At our substance abuse treatment center, we offer comprehensive Adderall detox services and provide the tools necessary for a safe and successful recovery. Our experienced professionals have the knowledge and experience to accurately assess each patient’s physical, mental, and emotional needs. The Adderall detox team at our treatment centers works with each patient to ensure a safe, comfortable, and rapid recovery.

In addition to providing treatment under strict medical supervision during the detox process, we offer a wide range of services and therapies to help individuals overcome their addiction in an environment that is both supportive and compassionate. We understand that addiction is a chronic and relapsing condition and are dedicated to helping our clients achieve lasting sobriety. Our team of experienced counselors, therapists, and doctors will create an individualized treatment plan that meets the unique needs of each patient and help them through difficult emotional and physical withdrawal symptoms. 

Our programs are designed to cultivate sustainable recovery outcomes so you can live life on your own terms. Some of our treatment services include:

Medical Detox Program

Managing Adderall withdrawal symptoms can be very uncomfortable and can even be dangerous in some cases. An Adderall detox program will provide a safe and comfortable environment while your body undergoes detox. These detox programs also provide support and counseling services that can help you stay positive, motivated, and focused on the end result throughout this difficult process.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment is one of the most important aspects of addiction rehabilitation. It provides a safe and supportive environment for those struggling with substance abuse and co-occurring disorders to focus on their recovery without any distractions. Inpatient treatment also offers around-the-clock care and supervision along with access to a tremendous amount of resources, tools and comprehensive therapies.

Personalized Treatment Plans

It is essential that individuals who struggle with addiction to Adderall receive a personalized treatment plan. We understand that everyone’s addiction is unique and requires a different approach to overcome. Patients will work with counselors and therapists to create a treatment plan tailored specifically for them. This may include detox, individual, group, and family therapy, counseling for mental illness, and more. The most important factor is that the person struggling with substance abuse feels comfortable with their treatment plan and is willing to follow it through.

Community Support

The importance of community support in inpatient programs cannot be overstated. It is one of the most important factors in a person’s success while in treatment. Inpatient treatment can be a difficult time, both mentally and physically, and it is crucial that patients have a strong support network to rely on. The community at an inpatient treatment center can provide patients with much-needed support to help them make it through the symptoms of withdrawal. Patients can lean on their peers in the community for emotional support, advice, and friendship. These relationships can help patients through tough times and make the experience more enjoyable while improving the odds of long-term recovery.

Reasons to Attend Gloria Rehab & Detox Center for Your Adderall Detox and Addiction Treatment Services

  • You will have 24/7 supervision and care from our nurses and addictionologist during your Adderall detox.
  • Every team member has more than ten years of experience treating patients and helping them through Adderall addiction recovery.
  • Life-changing 30-day rehab program with special activities that will help you get clean and sober.
  • We specialize in supporting patients during their recovery journey, from detoxing to helping them live a clean and sober life.
  • Our commitment to digging deep and determining the underlying cause of your addiction ensures that you can achieve a long-lasting recovery, so you can leave the life you deserve.
  • We are a small, private rehab facility which means you have a personal approach, extra care, and attention.
  • Our facility offers a comfortable, warm atmosphere (just like home) in addition to the professional support and guidance that you need at an addiction rehabilitation center. We encourage clients to seek emotional support from our team and their peers, so they are as comfortable as possible.

Find Relief From Amphetamine Addiction with Gloria Rehab

Take the first step toward drug addiction recovery by contacting our addiction treatment center in Los Angeles, CA – (818) 659-9444. With the right care, you or your loved one can safely and effectively navigate the challenges of detox treatment, symptoms of Adderall withdrawal, and drug addiction treatment and achieve sustainable recovery.

Our drug abuse treatment center accepts most private health insurance plans and some public health policies. A professional treatment provider on our team is available to work with your insurance provider to assist you in navigating your insurance coverage to minimize out-of-pocket expenses. If you don’t have insurance coverage, we can help you learn what treatment options are available to you or your loved one.