Overview of Adderall
Adderall is a prescription stimulant that increases the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Prescription drugs are typically in tablet, capsule, or liquid form and taken orally. Prescription stimulants are normally prescribed to treat ADHD and narcolepsy.
Effects of Adderall
Adderall increases alertness, attention, and energy. Misuse of prescription drugs include taking medicine in a way that was not prescribed, taking someone else’s medication, or taking it to experience the effects. Prescription stimulants are associated with feelings of euphoria along with the following:
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Increased breathing
- Decreased blood flow
- Increased blood sugar
- Opened-up breathing passages
High doses of prescription stimulants may also cause high body temperatures, an irregular heartbeat, heart failure, and seizures. Overdose of prescription stimulants is also possible. When this occurs, people may experience the following symptoms:
- Restlessness
- Tremors
- Overactive reflexes
- Rapid breathing
- Confusion
- Aggression
- Hallucinations
- Panic states
- Abnormally increased fever
- Muscle pains and weakness
Long Term Effects
When using prescription drugs to treat other symptoms that are not prescribed, negative health effects such as addiction, heart problems, or psychosis may arise. Most teens and college students misuse Adderall to improve their mental performance and memory; however, it is associated with harmful health effects. When using enough of the drug, life-threatening reactions or death is possible.
Treatment
If you think you or a friend may have an issue with Adderall or other prescription drugs, call (530) 752-6334 or go to Health-e-messaging and log in to schedule an appointment with the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Intervention Services Coordinator. There is no charge for the confidential appointment.