Adderall is a prescription medication that has long been effective for youth who struggle with attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In recent years, though, another use for this common drug has found its way into the lives of teens and young adults. Adderall is often used as a study aid. This might lead their loved ones to wonder is Adderall addictive?

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is one of the most commonly prescribed amphetamines. It’s often prescribed to adolescents and teens. Adderall is a prescription stimulant that is given to those who have a difficult time focusing on their schoolwork and other daily tasks. Because its potential to become addictive is so strong, the FDA has classified it as a Schedule II controlled substance.

Adderall comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth. Prescribed doses typically range from 5 milligrams up to 30 milligrams. People who abuse Adderall might crush the tablets up and snort them for a quicker effect. There are a number of street names for Adderall including uppers, pep pills, black beauties, speed, and Addys.

Is Adderall Addictive?

There is a mistaken perception that Adderall is a safe drug because it’s prescribed by a physician. People think then answer to the question: is Adderall addictive must be no.

The reality is not so simple though. Any prescribed medication causes side effects if it is abused. Adderall is no exception.

People often abuse prescription Adderall because it produces feelings of increased concentration, euphoria, and confidence. These make the medication appealing to those people who are searching for a boost in their mental and/or physical performance.

Adderall also suppresses the appetite. This makes Adderall attractive to those people who are struggling with an eating disorder or athletes who are trying to monitor their weight.

If a prescription medication is taken in a way that was not directed by the doctor, then it is abuse. For example, taking more than what was prescribed or crushing and snorting the pills is abuse. If a person doesn’t have a valid prescription for its use, it’s abuse.

Why Do People Abuse Adderall?

There are a number of reasons why someone might abuse Adderall including the following:

The Typical Person Who Abuses Adderall

There is no one typical type of person who abuses Adderall. To make things even more complex, there is the mistaken perception that Adderall is abused almost exclusively by high school or college students.

The research, however, doesn’t support this assumption. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSMM) found that most people started abusing the drug when they were 23 years of age.

The answer to the question: is Adderall addictive is a resounding yes. At Serenity Light Recovery, we can help you or your loved one overcome this addiction or any other substance. Our treatment options are comprehensive, tailored to the individual’s needs, and can include:

Learn more about how we can change your loved one’s life by calling us at 855.658.6109 today.