Given that Adderall is a stimulant, the highs one experiences is quite similar to a cocaine high. Another reason Adderall is potentially addictive is because of the dopamine-induced euphoric high it sometimes produces when taken in large doses. This causes the availability of dopamine in the system to drop, which is one of the reasons the sudden secession of Adderall use can lead to depression. When Adderall promotes the release of dopamine into the system, it also works to prevent the replenishment of the chemical as well. Is Adderall Addictive? Yes, it is possibly addictive for several reasons. The various versions of the drug makes it more versatile and flexible, allowing for the patient to find the formula which works best for them. Regardless of the type, Adderall typically absorbs into the blood in 30 minutes. An IR dose is for use multiple times a day due to its short-acting nature. It does the exact opposite of what Adderall XR does by releasing a dose which only lasts around 4 hours. Adderall IR or immediate release is the quick acting version of the drug. It is typically effective for 10-12 hours. It works by slowly releasing its contents throughout the day rather than all at once. This means it has a “high potential for abuse which may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.” Adderall XR vs IRĪdderall XR is the extended release version of Adderall. However, following abuse over long periods of time, users experience more severe side effects such as:Īdderall is classified as a Schedule II drug by the DEA. With increased use, some of these side effects may no longer affect you. Not only is addiction possible, someone misusing the drug may experience very negative side-effects. However, using Adderall has its downsides. A study, concluded by John Hopkins University, found that 60% of all illicit Adderall use was by students attempting to increase their academic capacity. Many college students use it to cram for an exam or to help boost attention while writing a paper. However, most of its value in academic society comes from its ability to increase focus and attentiveness. Moreover, its high sometimes has similar effects as taking cocaine. When significant misuse or abuse, Adderall causes a euphoric high given the amount of dopamine it helps release into the body. Norepinephrine is a stress hormone and neurotransmitter which is attributed to our “flight or fight” response when our body is put under extreme stress.Īdderall is prevalent in academic culture given the effects it has on the brain. Its euphoric feeling is meant to encourage the repetition of behavior which our body enjoys. When misusing or abusing a substance, this feeling is often addictive.ĭopamine is released naturally when a pleasurable action is undertaken such as eating, drinking or having sex. Dopamine is commonly known as as the “feel good” chemical and causes a euphoric high feeling. Adderall increases the dopamine and norepinephrine levels in your brain. Both are central nervous system stimulants and cause an increase in energy, blood pressure, alertness and attention. What is Adderall?Īdderall is the brand name medication for the mixture of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Thus, with any increase in the availability of a drug, the likelihood of abuse also increases. As the number of individuals with a diagnosis with these symptoms rise, there is a correlating rise in the prescription and use of Adderall. Primarily, its use is to treat patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Further, an estimated 5 million used adderall in an illicit manner. In 2016, there were around 16 million prescriptions written for individuals over the age of 18. ADDICTION How long does Adderall stay in your system?Īdderall is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States.