We all know that even some prescription medications can become addictive. But sometimes, we have no choice but to take them.

In the cases where there is a risk of addiction, it is crucial beforehand for family and loved ones to know the signs and symptoms in order to try to avoid addiction. If a loved one becomes addicted, to be able to get them the help they need to get sober. Unfortunately, no one is immune to addiction, and it is a terrible disease that affects millions of people every day. 

At Principles Recovery, it is important for us that we give our clients the best possible chances of recovery. Part of that effort means providing them and their loved ones with the information they need to recognize the symptoms of drug use and get treatment.

Symptoms of Adderall Withdrawal 

Adderall can cause withdrawal symptoms once you stop taking it, even in patients who have been prescribed the drug to treat a particular medical condition. 

While short-term use does not usually cause withdrawal, it is possible in people who have misused the drug or used the drug for an extended period of time.

Symptoms of Adderall withdrawal include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Irritability
• Depression
• Mood changes
• Fatigue
• Inability to sleep

Withdrawal is different for each person and can last anywhere from days to weeks after stopping taking the medication. Heavier users typically experience more severe symptoms, and in some cases, these symptoms can interact with existing medical conditions and cause serious health problems. 

What is Adderall? 

Adderall is a brand of drug that falls under the category of amphetamine/dextroamphetamine. It is primarily prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. It works by altering the state of the brain by adjusting the way certain chemicals in the brain react.  It can also be used to treat sleep disorders (such as narcolepsy) in combination with other drugs. 

One problem that is known about Adderall and similar drugs is that it has different effects for those without these conditions. In people without sleep disorders or ADHD, the drug performs as a stimulant drug, staving off the need to sleep and creating the ability to hyperfocus. Many people take the drug specifically for these stimulant effects even if they have no medical condition associated with the medication. 

Is Adderall Addictive? 

Like most drugs, Adderall has the potential to become addictive if used improperly. Adderall is addictive in particular because it alters the chemistry of the brain. Over time, the body gets used to the effects of the drug. Over a period of time, the body is dependent on the drug in to function normally on a day-to-day basis. 

Chemical dependency is the cause for addiction. Once the body is altered to the point that it needs the drug, it is difficult to go without it, leading to a person seeking the drug out to avoid negative side effects. If someone has a mental illness, they may also seek out the drug for self-medication purposes.

Can Adderall Cause Withdrawal? 

As with any addiction, Adderall can also cause withdrawal symptoms if a person has been taking it for a lengthy period of time and stops abruptly. The body eventually cannot function without the drug and begins to react to the lack of the drug. In typical cases, withdrawal from drugs like Adderall can begin in as little as a few hours once a person stops taking the drug. 

Because the effects of withdrawal can be so severe, it is never a good idea to stop using and attempt to detox alone. Medical detox includes monitoring during the entire process and can usually ensure much greater outcomes regarding recovery from addiction. Complications from withdrawal can be quite serious and require medical supervision in order to detox safely. Even if they’re not harmful long-term, the experience of detoxing may test a person’s resolve to remain sober. The ideal treatment plan should involve withdrawal management as a key part of insuring comfort.

How to Find Adderall Addiction Treatment in South Florida

If you’re suffering the symptoms of Adderall withdrawal, it’s time to seek help. The best way to get help is to go to a licensed treatment facility like Principles Recovery Center. 

Unlike most treatment centers, we don’t offer cookie-cutter treatment programs. We offer a wide array of treatment options for those with addiction. We have programs for adolescents and teens as well as outpatient care, dual diagnosis treatment, and more. We treat the individual and not just the drug they are addicted to. 

If you or someone you know is suffering from Adderall addiction in South Florida, contact Principles Recovery today!

Dr. Carlos Satulovsky( Medical Director )

Dr. Carlos Satulovsky is a board-certified psychiatrist and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Facultad De Ciencias Medicas/Universidad Nacional. He is affiliated with medical facilities North Shore Medical Center.