The medication works by increasing the activity of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain.
You might recognize dopamine as the feel-good chemical.
Its the chemical your brain releases when you are happy or doing something you enjoy.
Verywell / Alison Czinkota
Adderall is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
This is because it has a very high potential to be abused.
Adderall has to be prescribed by a doctor or medical professional.
However, because of its high potential for abuse, its often obtained illegally without prescriptions.
Some research shows that Adderall is one of the most widely abused drugs in the United States.
For example, many students abuse it if they believe it can help them study better.
You are even more likely to develop an addiction to Adderall if you take it without a prescription.
This is because addiction to Adderall takes time to develop.
It typically begins with taking small prescriptions to get through certain tasks or activities.
This article discusses the signs of Adderall addiction, risk factors, its effect, and treatment.
It also explains how you might help someone who is dealing with an addiction to Adderall.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Research shows that Adderall abuse is particularly prevalent on college campuses.
Students abuse the medication hoping that it can improve their concentration and help them get better grades.
Taking Adderall without a prescription or using it not as directed by a doctor canlead to an addiction.
Adderall Addiction vs. Adderall Dependency
People often conflate Adderall addiction with Adderall dependency.
However, most people with an Adderall addiction might develop it from illegally obtaining the drug.
On the other hand, Adderall dependency most often occurs in those who have been prescribed the medication.
A dependency on Adderall can be expected when the medication is prescribed long-term to a person.
A person with an Adderall dependency doesnt abuse the medication or take unnatural quantities to stimulate a high.
Additionally, a person with an addiction will typically go through extreme measures to get this medication.
Treatment
If you or someone you love is experiencing Adderall addiction, its important to seek help.
Its challenging for a person with an addiction to this medication to quit on their own.
However, there are treatment centers that specialize in treating addiction.
Treatment options include enrolling in an outpatient program or an inpatient rehab center.
An outpatient program allows the person seeking treatment to be at home with their friends and family.
The first step to helping them overcome their addiction is seeking professional treatment for their condition.
Its most important for you to continue to support them throughout the treatment and recovery process.
An Adderall addiction can be particularly challenging on the loved ones of the person with the addiction.
So, seeking help from a therapist to navigate the difficult emotions that could arise is advisable.
People with an Adderall addiction typically take the stimulant in large doses frequently.
Food and Drug Administration.Adderall.
