(Newswire.net — March 25, 2019) — Adderall has become quite the household name in the last few years. However, not many people understand its composition and usage. In recent years, the misuse of Adderall has increased enough to raise eyebrows, but awareness is yet to reach the same level. While we are sure you know at least a few of these 8 things about Adderall, knowing all of them will go a long way:
What is Adderall?
It is a medicine that is used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Narcolepsy. It alters the number of certain chemicals present in the brain. Generically called Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine, it helps one stay focused and improves the ability to pay attention.
It can also help you in being organized and boosts listening skills, thus controlling many behavioral problems. As the drug is a stimulant, it is also used for treating narcolepsy – a disorder that adversely affects sleep and wakefulness.
How does Adderall work?
The chemicals present in Adderall has an impact on the brain as well as on some parts of the central nervous system responsible for controlling hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Since its FDA approval in 1996, it has been used to treat both narcolepsy and ADHD in children and adults.
Is there an age restriction associated with Adderall?
Yes. Children below 3 years of age are generally not prescribed Adderall. Even when taken with a prescription, the doctor’s guidelines should be followed to the T. Also, let your doctor or child’s doctor know about any medical complications. Other than that, Adderall should not be taken by those who have high blood pressure, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), heart disease or glaucoma.
There have been cases in which patients have turned out to be allergic to Adderall. Also, those with a history of psychological disorders like bipolar disorder or depression should refrain from using this drug. It is also not recommended for those with Tourette’s syndrome, epilepsy, circulation issues, and seizures. Those with a history of substance abuse should also steer clear of this medicine.
Is habit-forming an issue with Adderall?
It has been seen that Adderall can be addictive for many people. The body develops a tolerance to it over time, which later on becomes a habit. Taking more medication than prescribed is one of the reasons why.
As it helps boost focus, it is used by students to perform better. Also, it creates a drug like Euphoria, which is the reason behind its use as a party drug. It is due to this that Adderall is illegal for over the counter sale. You should not share this medicine with others either. Those who have been substantially dependent in the past should also share this fact with the doctor before beginning Adderall therapy.
Can there be any drug interaction?
If you are already taking some drug, it is recommended you inform your doctor before taking Adderall. There are literally hundreds of drugs that can interact with this medicine in major or mild ways. Some of these medicines include antacids, blood thinners, antidepressants, pain medicine, allergy medication, and blood pressure medicine. Thus, it is important to let your doctor know about any drug that you are taking before joining Adderall therapy.
Is there a difference between Adderall and Ritalin?
Both these drugs are used to treat ADHD as they both are stimulants. Also, both Ritalin and Adderall can induce dependence in patients. While their uses are the same, it has been seen that Adderall has a higher potential for abuse. Both these medicines can be bought only after getting a proper prescription.
Ritalin can also come in a different format such as long-acting, sustained-release or instant release, whereas Adderall comes only in two formats: extended release and instant release.
Are there any side effects of Adderall?
It has been seen that Adderall can slow down the rate of growth in children. Furthermore, weight loss, headaches, stomach aches sleeping issues and dry mouth are common side effects of the medicine. It has been documented that Adderall users also experience mood swings and nervousness.
If you have trouble breathing, hallucinations, unexplained muscle pain, changes in skin color, or trouble breathing, you should contact your doctor immediately. Other side effects include changes in vision, seizures and dark coloration of urine. Here are two major side effects:
- Kidney damage
Adderall increases blood pressure and can potentially damage the kidney after prolonged use. It can result in Renal Artery Stenosis, a condition in which the arteries through which blood flows in the kidneys become narrow and hard. Thus, the course of Adderall should be monitored and followed religiously with regular check-ups.
- Increase in heart rate and blood pressure
Amphetamines stimulate norepinephrine and dopamine – two important neurotransmitters in the brain. These, in turn, affect the blood pressure and the heart rate. However, those with a history of heart disease are at danger if the dosage is not monitored properly since a spike in BP and heart rate can give rise to severe complications such as heart attacks.
Why is Adderall abused?
Other than the treatment of ADHD, Adderall has many effects on the body. For one, it can help users focus better and also reduces sleepiness, making it quite popular with students of all ages and genders.
There is another misuse of Adderall which is quite trending. It is considered to be a so-called diet pill.
Amphetamines make the brain produce more epinephrine, which suppresses the appetite. While it may seem like a figure-conscious person’s dream come true, the drop in appetite is only temporary. Once the effect of the medicine wears off, the user is usually ravenous. It is also used as a party drug as it increases the tolerance for alcohol in the body. This can disastrously backfire in case of overdose.
Final Words
These were the eight things that you should know about Adderall before getting on the drug. As you can see, there are a number of disadvantages as well. Remember, taking this drug without prescription will do more harm than good.