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Adderall withdrawal can happen if you stop taking your ADHD medication.
The Adderall crash is like an intense mini-withdrawal.
It typically begins within several hours of your last dose and can continue for one or two days.
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Most people experience physical and mental exhaustion along with a markedly depressed mood.
This article discusses the risks and symptoms of Adderall withdrawal, as well as the treatments that can help.
Some people are able to stop taking Adderall with mild symptoms or no symptoms.
Your withdrawal experience will depend on a number of factors, including the nature of your Adderall use.
The initial withdrawal syndrome can be severe.
Withdrawal may affect your ability to function normally and fulfill your responsibilities at home, school, and work.
After the withdrawal period, however, you may face some unexpected psychological, social, or emotional problems.
Example Timeline
What Causes Adderall Withdrawal?
Adderall is a combination of the two stimulants amphetamine and dextroamphetamine.
Norepinephrine is responsible for boosting your alertness, focus, and cognitive functions.
Both play a role in mood regulation.
During long-term Adderall use, your brain gets used to the increased activity of these neurotransmitters.
Withdrawal symptoms occur because your brain is experiencing what it believes to be low levels of dopamine and norepinephrine.
ADHD Rebound
In addition to withdrawal, people may also experienceADHD rebound symptomswhen they stop taking Adderall.
You may also have to contend with the consequences of failing to meet your responsibilities during withdrawal.
This may include problems at work, school, or home.
Its no wonder that the hallmark of Adderall withdrawal is depression.
Depression from Adderall withdrawal is temporary, typically continuing for about one week after your last dose.
In some people, however, depression can linger for weeks or months.
Severe depression is a lot different than just feeling sad.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
When it comes to withdrawal, the context actually doesnt matter too much.
Anyone who has been using amphetamines for an extended period of time can experience withdrawal symptoms.
Unlike other withdrawal syndromes, Adderall withdrawal is not associated with any dangerous medical problems.
The primary risk is that your depressed mood will escalate to suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
The problem with Adderall withdrawal is that it can be a bit unpredictable.
Its hard to know in advance whether you will experience intense depression or extreme irritation.
Even if you have no history of suicidal thoughts or depression, it is still a risk.
Adderall has serious effects on your brain chemistry and it is difficult to predict how your moods will shift.
It could be helpful to talk to a doctor about your plans to quit.
Your doctor may be able to give you both short- and long-term support.
They will likely recommend tapering your dose gradually over a period of time for minimize or avoid withdrawal symptoms.
All drugs of addiction affect dopamine in some indirect way.
Think of it like this: you will be starting off with a real physical disadvantage.
To resist drug cravings, you are going to need a lot of support.
This may include both medication and psychotherapy.
The leading treatment for amphetamine addiction is behavioral therapy.
Two types have proven effective,cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)and contingency management (CM).
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Most colleges have excellent counseling and behavioral health services.
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