Adderall Facts

Benefits, Risks, and Alternatives

Adderall is a prescription medication commonly used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, when deciding on the right medication for yourself or your child, it is crucial to consider various factors and potential side effects. This article will provide unbiased information on Adderall’s benefits, risks, and alternatives, along with relevant statistics. Remember that this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your doctor before starting or stopping any medication.

Adderall: Overview and Benefits

Adderall is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, two central nervous system stimulants that enhance concentration and reduce impulsivity by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain (NIDA, n.d.). When used appropriately, Adderall may help individuals diagnosed with ADHD improve attention, concentration, and control behavior (Drugs.com, n.d.).

Risks and Potential Side Effects

While Adderall can be helpful for those diagnosed with ADD and ADHD, it also has potential side effects and risks. Long-term abuse of Adderall can lead to kidney damage, insomnia, nasal damage from ingestion, and personal, financial, and family problems (Lautieri, 2015). The FDA has warned that Adderall, Ritalin, and other prescription stimulants are addictive and can have potentially dangerous side effects (River Oaks, n.d.). People can also develop tolerance to prescription stimulants like Adderall, requiring higher doses over time to achieve the same effect (Loria, 2014).

Adderall Abuse and Misuse

Adderall is sometimes abused for its stimulant effects, seeking feelings of euphoria, increased alertness, reduced fatigue, and improved well-being (SAMHSA, n.d.). According to a survey of college students, 20% abused stimulants, with 60% of those students using Adderall, followed by Ritalin and Vyvanse (SAMHSA, n.d.). College students who abused Adderall were more likely to use marijuana, prescription pain relievers, cocaine, and prescription sedatives than those who did not abuse Adderall (SAMHSA, n.d.).

Alternatives to Adderall

Some alternatives to Adderall include other prescription medications such as Ritalin (methylphenidate) and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine). The main difference between Adderall and Vyvanse is that Adderall contains four types of amphetamine salts, while Vyvanse contains only lisdexamfetamine (Drugs.com, n.d.). Vyvanse is less prone to abuse, but there is no one-size-fits-all solution, making it more expensive than Adderall (Drugs.com, n.d.).

When used as prescribed, Adderall can provide benefits to those diagnosed with ADD and ADHD. However, it is essential to be aware of the potential side effects, risks, and prevalence of abuse. Always consult your doctor to discuss the most appropriate medication for your specific needs.

Fact Sources:

Drugs.com. (n.d.). Adderall: Uses, dosage, side effects & safety info. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/adderall.html

Lautieri, A. (2015). What are the long-term effects of heavy Adderall use? American Addiction Centers. Retrieved from https://americanaddictioncenters.org/adderall/long-term-effects

Loria, K. (2014). 21 startling facts that everyone should know about Adderall. Business Insider. Retrieved from https://www.businessinsider.com/how-adderall-affects-your-body-and-brain-2014-5

NIDA. (n.d.). Prescription stimulant medications (Amphetamines). NIDA for Teens. Retrieved from https://teens.drugabuse.gov/drug-facts/prescription-stimulant-medications-amphetamines

River Oaks. (n.d.). Facts about Adderall addiction and treatment options. Retrieved from https://riveroakstreatment.com/prescription-drug-abuse/adderall-addiction/

SAMHSA. (n.d.). Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration. Full-time college students twice as likely to use Adderall non-medically. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/Adderall/FullTimeCollegeStudentsAdderall.htm