Is Adderall addictive? What to know

Doctors may prescribe Adderall to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It is a stimulant that activates the dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters in the brain to help improve focus and inhibit impulsive behaviors.

If taken at therapeutic levels, meaning the lowest possible dosage, there is a low risk of dependency or addiction. However, if a person takes it at higher dosages, it can become addictive.

Is Adderall addictive?

Doctors typically prescribe Adderall at dosages of 5–60 milligrams (mg) total per day for narcolepsy or 5–40 mg per day for ADHD. If you take them at the dosage that the doctor prescribes, medical research indicates Adderall can be a safe and effective method of managing conditions such as ADHD. 

However, the potential for misuse has increased in recent years. Adderall is also a Schedule IIN drug in the United States. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse.

When you take Adderall at higher doses, there are stimulant effects such as increased mental performance, sustained wakefulness, and a euphoric “high.” 

For this reason, those who might be at risk of misusing Adderall may include students and athletes. But anybody can misuse Adderall and develop an addiction.

Those who begin taking recreational doses of Adderall may need even higher dosages to feel euphoria after the drug wears off.

Symptoms of Adderall addiction 

While the symptoms of Adderall addiction can vary from person to person, the overuse of stimulants may follow certain patterns.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), stimulant abuse is characterized by the following criteria:

• using the drug in larger doses or for longer periods than the doctor prescribes
• developing a tolerance and needing to use more of the drug to reach the desired effect
• having unsuccessful attempts to decrease use
• having a persistent desire or craving to use the drug
• developing relationships problems related to drug use
• not attending social or recreational events due to drug use
• using the drug in risky or dangerous situations
• failing to fulfill obligations at school, home, or work as a result of drug use
• spending a lot of time trying to get the drug and using it
• continuing use even with an awareness of negative side effects 
• experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug

Withdrawal symptoms can vary but may include:

• irritability
• prolonged sleep
• disturbed sleep
• lethargy
• cravings
• mood changes, such as depression

What are the long-term effects of Adderall on the brain?

Prolonged central nervous system stimulation at high dosages can have long-term effects on the brain. Studies on amphetamine toxicity also indicate that it can cause seizures and psychosis.

However, the amount of Adderall or the length of use needed to reach amphetamine toxicity is unclear and will vary from person to person.

A 2019 study found that 1 in 660 young people who received prescription stimulants for ADHD developed new-onset psychosis. The risk was greater with amphetamine when compared with methylphenidate.

Overall, more studies on the long-term effects of Adderall on the brain and other parts of the body are necessary. 

Treatments for Adderall addiction

If you experience an Adderall addiction, there are detox procedures that can offer support. Depending on the severity of your addiction, a doctor may refer you to a detox or rehab center.

Ongoing therapy, such as behavioral therapy, may also be an option to help you come to terms with your situation and find ways to cope with your feelings.

Although there is no medication that can help you specifically reduce Adderall addiction, a doctor may recommend certain medications to help you manage symptoms of withdrawal. The type of medication can depend on the symptoms you experience.

How often is it safe to take Adderall?

It is generally safe to take Adderall on a daily basis as long as you follow the prescription your doctor provides.

Your prescribing doctor will be aware of your unique care needs, medical history, and other medications you may be taking.

If you have concerns about taking Adderall, it is best that you contact your doctor for advice.

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Summary

Adderall can be a safe and effective way to control the symptoms of ADHD and narcolepsy. However, it is possible to develop an Adderall addiction as a result of misuse.

If a person experiences addiction to Adderall, their doctor can recommend various treatments to help them to taper their usage and manage any symptoms of withdrawal that may occur.

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