Individuals diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are often prescribed stimulant medications such as Ritalin (methylphenidate) or Adderall (a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) to help manage symptoms. While these medications can be effective when used as directed under medical supervision, misuse is common. Many people take them without a diagnosis, exposing themselves to significant health risks and the potential for dependence and Adderall addiction.
This article focuses on Adderall, though the information is relevant to other stimulants and amphetamines used without prescription. Below, we explore how Adderall misuse can lead to addiction and overdose, review the signs and symptoms of misuse and withdrawal, and outline the possible short- and long-term consequences of Adderall abuse.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription medication that contains a mixture of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, both of which are central nervous system stimulants. By increasing the activity of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, the drug enhances attention, improves focus, and reduces impulsivity. For this reason, it is commonly prescribed to individuals diagnosed with ADHD and, less frequently, for the treatment of narcolepsy.
Although widely prescribed, Adderall is also widely misused. Many people assume that because the medication is given out by doctors it must be inherently safe. In reality, its safety depends entirely on medical supervision and appropriate use. When taken as prescribed, Adderall can be effective in managing ADHD symptoms. But when used without a diagnosis, in higher doses, or for nonmedical reasons such as staying awake or improving performance, the drug can become harmful. Misuse is associated with insomnia, mood swings, cardiovascular strain, appetite suppression, and in some cases, dependence.
Adderall is classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a Schedule II controlled substance, the same category as opioids like oxycodone. This classification reflects its high potential for abuse and the risk of developing a substance use disorder. Research has shown that stimulant medications, including Adderall, can alter body weight and bone metabolism, affect sleep patterns, and, with prolonged misuse, place considerable stress on both physical and mental health.
Despite these risks, when used responsibly under a physician’s care, Adderall remains an important tool in the management of ADHD. It helps many people bring their attention and behavior to a level that allows them to succeed in school, work, and daily life.
What are the symptoms and side effects of using Adderall?
While Adderall can be effective when taking Adderall as prescribed, misuse or prolonged use increases the likelihood of serious side effects. Some of these complications may be temporary, but others can cause lasting or even permanent harm. The risks grow higher the longer Adderall use continues, whether by taking larger doses, using it without a prescription, or combining it with other substances.
Common side effects
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Dry mouth or unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Restlessness or feeling “jittery”
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea or abdominal discomfort
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Blurred vision
- Increased heart rate or irregular heartbeat
Psychological and behavioral symptoms
- Anxiety or heightened social anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Mood swings
- Aggression or hostility
- Depression
- Lack of motivation or excessive fatigue
- Suicidal thoughts
- Feeling “spacey” or detached
- Slowed speech or disorganized thought patterns
Serious medical complications
- High blood pressure
- Reduced circulation
- Cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart)
- Hair loss (sometimes in large clumps)
- Sexual side effects, including changes in libido or impotence
- Seizures
- Kidney damage
- Sudden cardiac arrest
Neurological and long-term risks
- Neurotoxicity leading to psychosis, hallucinations, or paranoia
- Schizophrenia-like symptoms that may require ongoing psychiatric treatment
- Brain damage from prolonged stimulant misuse

You can overcome addiction. Reach out to discover:
Why does Adderall help people with ADHD?
Adderall is among the most widely prescribed stimulant medications in the U.S., and while it is often misused, it remains highly effective when used as directed for individuals with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
For someone with ADHD, the core challenge lies in how the brain regulates two key neurotransmitters: dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals influence attention, motivation, and executive functioning. In ADHD, the communication pathways involving these transmitters tend to be underactive, leading to difficulties with concentration, impulse control, and organization.
Adderall, which contains mixed amphetamine salts, works by increasing the release of dopamine and norepinephrine while slowing their reabsorption into neurons. This action enhances signaling in brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex—the area responsible for planning, focus, and impulse regulation. Instead of overstimulating the brain, the medication helps normalize activity levels, bringing attention and self-control closer to what is typical in individuals without ADHD. Many patients describe the experience as finally being able to think clearly, follow through on tasks, and quiet a restless mind.
In contrast, for people who do not have ADHD, this increase in dopamine and norepinephrine can overshoot the brain’s natural baseline. Rather than restoring balance, the drug may create feelings of euphoria, intense focus on nonessential tasks, heightened alertness, and sometimes anxiety or agitation. These effects can be pleasurable in the short term but carry a risk of dependence and other health complications.
Beyond ADHD, the only other FDA-approved use for Adderall is in the treatment of narcolepsy, a neurological condition marked by overwhelming daytime sleepiness. By stimulating the central nervous system, Adderall can help individuals with narcolepsy remain alert and more functional during the day.
How Adderall abuse leads to dependence
Like other addictive substances, Adderall has the ability to alter brain chemistry when it is misused. With repeated exposure, the brain begins to adapt to the constant presence of amphetamines, changing the way it regulates dopamine and norepinephrine. These adaptations reduce the drug’s impact over time, leading to tolerance. Once tolerance develops, a person often feels compelled to take higher or more frequent doses to achieve the same effects, setting in motion the cycle of misuse.
As this cycle continues, dependence can form. The brain and body begin to rely on the medication to function “normally,” and stopping suddenly may trigger withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue, depression, sleep problems, or intense cravings. In more severe cases, misuse progresses to a substance use disorder, where compulsive drug-seeking and continued use persist despite negative consequences at work, school, or in relationships.
The risk is especially high when Adderall is taken without medical supervision. Recreational use—such as taking the drug to stay awake, suppress appetite, or enhance performance—pushes the brain’s reward system beyond its natural balance. Over time, this not only increases the likelihood of addiction but also places stress on the cardiovascular system, mood regulation, and metabolic processes.
Signs of Adderall dependence and withdrawal
When someone develops a dependence on Adderall, the signs often become noticeable in both their daily functioning and physical health. Dependence may appear gradually, with individuals needing the medication to stay alert, manage their mood, or simply feel “normal.” Common indicators include:
- Escalating use. Taking higher doses than prescribed or using the drug more frequently.
- Loss of control. Difficulty cutting back despite the intention to do so.
- Prioritizing use. Spending significant time thinking about, obtaining, or recovering from the drug.
- Neglecting responsibilities. Struggling to keep up with work, school, or family obligations due to misuse.
- Behavioral changes. Increased irritability, secrecy, or defensiveness about use.
When someone who is dependent stops taking Adderall, withdrawal symptoms can occur as the brain attempts to recalibrate without the stimulant. These symptoms may include:
- Extreme fatigue or low energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Depressed mood or irritability
- Increased appetite and weight changes
- Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or oversleeping
- Strong cravings for the drug
While withdrawal is typically not life-threatening, it can be distressing and is a major reason people relapse without support. Managing these symptoms often requires medical guidance, especially when dependence has been long-standing or combined with the use of other substances.
WE ARE AVAILABLE 24/7
Request a call for answers and help.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction or mental health problems, request a call to speak with a knowledgeable treatment specialist. Our team is here to help you understand your options for care. There is no cost or obligation to enter treatment by requesting a call.
"*" indicates required fields
Can I overdose on Adderall?
Although Adderall is commonly prescribed, overdose is possible—and can be life-threatening. Prescription doses typically range from 5 to 60 milligrams per day, depending on age and medical need. Toxicity occurs when the amount taken overwhelms the body’s ability to metabolize the drug. In severe cases, the dose required to cause death has been estimated at 20 to 25 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. For an adult weighing 154 pounds, that equates to roughly 1,400 milligrams—many times higher than the prescribed amount.
While overdose at prescribed levels is rare, the risk rises sharply with misuse. Crushing and snorting pills, ingesting large quantities at once, or combining Adderall with alcohol or other substances increases the likelihood of dangerous interactions. Even smaller doses can cause overdose when taken alongside certain medications, including antidepressants, blood pressure drugs, or over-the-counter cold and allergy remedies. Mixing stimulants with alcohol is particularly risky, as the stimulant masks the depressant effects of alcohol, raising the chance of alcohol poisoning, coma, or death.
Each year, thousands of young adults and college students are treated in emergency departments due to complications from Adderall misuse. Overdose is not just a matter of dose size—it is also about context, such as method of ingestion, co-occurring health conditions, and the presence of other substances in the body.
Signs and symptoms of an Adderall overdose
- Nausea and vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Rapid or irregular breathing
- Elevated body temperature (fever above 106°F has been reported)
- Hallucinations or severe agitation
- Tremors or seizures
- Severe headaches
- Chest pain, heart attack, or sudden cardiac events
- Loss of consciousness and, in extreme cases, death
Prompt medical attention is critical in any suspected overdose. Emergency treatment often includes stabilizing heart rhythm, lowering body temperature, and managing seizures, which highlights the seriousness of misusing a medication as potent as Adderall and the dangers of Adderall addiction.
Difference between Adderall addiction and Adderall dependence
Dependence and Adderall addiction are related but not the same. Dependence happens when the body gets used to the drug. Over time, tolerance builds, so a person needs more frequent or higher doses to feel the same effects. If they cut back or stop suddenly, withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and trouble sleeping are common.
Addiction goes further. It’s a substance use disorder that involves not just dependence, but also compulsive use and drug-seeking behavior. Someone caught in Adderall abuse may keep taking it even when it damages their health, interferes with school or work, or strains relationships. Continuing to abuse Adderall increases the likelihood of a severe substance use disorder.
Adderall is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, which means it has medical value but carries a high risk for misuse and addiction. Misusing it to study longer, stay awake, or lose weight can quickly push someone from dependence into Adderrall addiction.
In these cases, an Adderall addiction treatment program at specialized treatment centers can provide the medical care, therapy, and structure needed to stop use safely and begin recovery.
Free Insurance Check
Our rehab center accepts most insurance plans.
Check if your insurance will cover the cost of treatment by filling out our confidential insurance form. We accept most insurance plans.

Causes and risk factors of Adderall addiction
Academic pressure and the desire to lose weight
Many people abuse Adderall to study longer or to lose weight, as it may suppress appetite, but this pattern can be extremely dangerous. Misusing prescription stimulants, especially at higher doses, often puts both mental and physical health at risk, leading to dependence that requires professional treatment options.
Genetic, environmental, and mental health conditions
Family history, high-stress environments, and co-occurring mental health issues can increase vulnerability to Adderall misuse. Struggles may include insomnia, mood swings, or even vivid or unpleasant dreams. Recovery often involves behavioral therapy, medication management, and group therapy sessions at trusted treatment facilities, along with ongoing support groups.
Prescription misuse and increasing dependence
Misusing prescription stimulants, such as taking higher doses than prescribed, very quickly builds both personal tolerance and dependence. Quitting in and of itself can cause stimulant withdrawal, fatigue, or excessive daytime sleepiness, and in rare cases, complications like blood clots. Comprehensive treatment options help break this cycle and support long-term healing.
How can I safely withdraw from Adderall?
Stopping Adderall suddenly, especially after prolonged or high-dose use, can trigger a difficult withdrawal process often described as a “crash.” This occurs because the brain has adapted to the steady presence of amphetamines and struggles to regulate dopamine and norepinephrine levels once the drug is removed. Physicians typically start patients on the lowest effective dose for this very reason—lower doses are less likely to cause severe withdrawal when discontinued.
The safest approach to withdrawal is medical supervision. A structured taper, where the dose is gradually reduced over time, helps minimize symptoms and lowers the risk of complications. Even with a taper, withdrawal can be unpredictable, lasting from several days to a few weeks, and in some cases longer. During this period, individuals are particularly vulnerable to relapse as cravings intensify and mood symptoms emerge. Medical detox programs provide monitoring, supportive care, and, when needed, medications to ease symptoms and reduce health risks.
What are the symptoms of Adderall withdrawal?
The withdrawal process can produce a range of distressing symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. These may include:
- Extreme fatigue and low energy
- Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks
- Body aches and muscle pain
- Tremors or physical restlessness
- Mood swings and irritability
- Heightened anxiety or panic attacks
- Episodes of uncontrollable crying
- Depressed mood or feelings of hopelessness
- Short-term memory problems
- Intense cravings for Adderall
- Sleep disruption, including insomnia or hypersomnia
- Dry mouth and other physical discomforts
While withdrawal itself is generally not life-threatening, the psychological effects—such as severe depression or suicidal thoughts—require careful monitoring. Medical detox from a substance use disorder provides a safe and supportive environment to avoid withdrawal symptoms from becoming overwhelming. Doctors and nurses can monitor heart health, sleep patterns, and mood changes while offering medication management to ease discomfort. With this guidance, clients have a much smoother path through the early stages of recovery than if they attempted to quit “cold turkey” reducing the risk of relapse and long-term Adderall addiction.
Following detox, many individuals enter residential treatment, where they receive 24/7 supervision, structured therapy, and comprehensive care. Others may transition into outpatient treatment, which allows them to continue recovery while maintaining responsibilities at work, school, or home. Regardless of the level of care, completing detox provides the foundation needed for long-term recovery.
Adderall addiction treatment programs
Adderall addiction can develop gradually, often beginning with prescribed use and escalating into misuse. Some people may start taking Adderall more frequently to cope with academic or work pressures, to stay awake, or even to lose weight. Over time, these patterns can become difficult to control without professional help. An Adderall addiction treatment program offers a structured path to recovery, addressing both the physical dependence and the psychological reasons behind stimulant misuse.
Residential treatment / inpatient treatment
For individuals with severe Adderall addiction, dependence or repeated relapse, residential treatment or inpatient treatment provides a safe and immersive environment. In residential treatment programs, patients live at the facility and receive round-the-clock support. Residential treatment combines medical oversight with individual and group therapy, helping people address cravings, rebuild coping skills, and stabilize their daily routines.
Outpatient treatment
When symptoms are less severe, or when responsibilities at work, school, or home cannot be put on hold, outpatient treatment may be the right option. These programs allow individuals to continue their daily lives while attending scheduled therapy sessions and medical check-ins at treatment centers. Outpatient care comes in different levels of intensity, giving people the flexibility to receive the support they need while still maintaining work, school, or family responsibilities.
Partial hospitalization treatment (PHP)
A partial hospitalization program is the most structured level of outpatient care. Patients spend most of the day at the treatment center, often five days per week, receiving therapy, medical monitoring, and support services. PHP is well-suited for people stepping down from residential treatment or those who need intensive care but do not require overnight supervision.
Intensive outpatient treatment (IOP)
An intensive outpatient program provides several hours of therapy per week, usually spread across multiple days. This option is often recommended for people who need more support than standard outpatient care but cannot commit to a full-day PHP schedule. IOP includes a mix of individual counseling, group therapy, and relapse-prevention planning, helping individuals manage cravings and build coping strategies while still living at home.
Standard outpatient treatment
Standard outpatient treatment offers the most flexibility, typically involving weekly therapy sessions and periodic check-ins. This level of care is often used as a step-down after more intensive treatment, or for individuals whose Adderall use has not yet escalated to severe dependence. Standard outpatient care helps reinforce recovery skills while allowing maximum independence.
Dual diagnosis treatment
Many individuals who abuse Adderall also struggle with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or eating disorders. In these cases, dual diagnosis treatment is important. This integrated approach addresses both the addiction and the co-occurring disorder at the same time, improving the chances of long-term recovery. Treating only one condition often leaves the other unresolved, which can trigger relapse. Dual diagnosis care may include psychiatric support, medication management, and therapy designed to help patients manage both challenges simultaneously.
Aftercare programs and community resources
Effective addiction treatment extends beyond detox and early stabilization. Ongoing support through counseling, aftercare programs, and community resources helps prevent relapse and sustain progress. By addressing the root causes of Adderall use—whether academic pressure, performance anxiety, or body image concerns—individuals gain the tools needed to achieve long-term recovery and reduce the risk of recurring Adderall addiction.
Rehab might feel like a big step, but remember why you're here—you’re looking for a way forward. We can help.
Need help for Adderall abuse? Explore Adderall addiction treatment in Colorado today.
Taking the first step toward recovery from Adderall addiction can feel overwhelming, but it is also an act of strength. With the right support, it is possible to stop the cycle of misuse and begin building a healthier future.
At Red Ribbon Recovery Colorado, our treatment centers offer programs that combine medical oversight, therapy, and long-term support. Each plan is designed to address the challenges of Adderall use and help individuals develop the tools needed for lasting recovery.
Most major insurance plans are accepted, and our team can assist in reviewing financial options when needed. If you or someone you love continues to abuse Adderall, professional help is available—and reaching out today can be the start of meaningful change. Call (303) 219-3980 or complete our confidential online contact form here.
We are here to help you or a loved one find addiction treatment near you.
Admitting you have a substance abuse problem and asking for help is not always easy. If you or a loved one are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction or another substance use disorder, help is available. Call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (303) 219-3980 to learn about resources in your area or reach out to our team for personalized treatment.
Treatment Center Reviews
Bridget LaRocco
I have been to this facility twice now, for Laser Hair removal and Botox. I saw Kim 2 times now for laser and she has been great, she made me feel really comfortable and…
Bridget LaRocco
I have been to this facility twice now, for Laser Hair removal and Botox. I saw Kim 2 times now for laser and she has been great, she made me feel really comfortable and…
Bridget LaRocco
I have been to this facility twice now, for Laser Hair removal and Botox. I saw Kim 2 times now for laser and she has been great, she made me feel really comfortable and…
Sources
- Martin, D., & Le, J. K. (July 31, 2023). Amphetamine. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan–. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556103/
- Patel, P., Marwaha, R., & Molla, M. (April 6, 2025). Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan–. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507808/
- Poulton, A., Briody, J., McCorquodale, T., Melzer, E., Herrmann, M., Baur, L. A., & Duque, G. (2012). Weight loss on stimulant medication: how does it affect body composition and bone metabolism? – A prospective longitudinal study. International Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology, 2012(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1687-9856-2012-30
- Li, M. J., & Shoptaw, S. J. (2022). Clinical management of psychostimulant withdrawal: review of the evidence. Addiction, 118(4), 750–762. https://doi.org/10.1111/add.16093
- American Psychiatric Association. (May 2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2021). Treatment for Stimulant Use Disorders (TIP Series 33). PEP20-06-01-001. Rockville, MD: Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. Available from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: https://library.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/pep20-06-01-001.pdf
- How Stimulants Affect the Brain and Behavior. (2021). In Treatment for Stimulant Use Disorders: Updated 2021 (TIP Series 33). Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK576548/
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (February 23, 2022). Polysubstance use facts. https://www.cdc.gov/stop-overdose/caring/polysubstance-use.html
- Docherty, J. R. (June 2008). Pharmacology of stimulants prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). British Journal of Pharmacology, 154(3), 606–622. https://doi.org/10.1038/bjp.2008.124
- Berezanskaya, J., Cade, W., Best, T. M., Paultre, K., & Kienstra, C. (January 2022). ADHD prescription medications and their effect on athletic performance: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sports Medicine – Open, 8(1), 5. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40798-021-00374-y
- Compton, W. M., Han, B., Blanco, C., Johnson, K., & Jones, C. M. (August 2018). Prevalence and correlates of prescription stimulant use, misuse, use disorders, and motivations for misuse among adults in the U.S. The American Journal of Psychiatry, 175(8), 741–755. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2018.17091048
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. National Institutes of Health. (February 27, 2022). Adderall. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601234.html
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2015). Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Substance Use Disorders (Advisory). Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. https://library.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/sma15-4925.pdf
- Miller, S. C., Fiellin, D. A., Rosenthal, R. N., & Saitz, R. (2019). The ASAM Principles of Addiction Medicine (6th ed.). Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer.
- Calipari, E. S., & Ferris, M. J. (May 22, 2013). Amphetamine mechanisms and actions at the dopamine terminal revisited. Journal of Neuroscience, 33(21), 8923–8925. https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1033-13.2013
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. (October 2011). Prescription drug abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/prescription-drugs
- Weyandt, L. L., Oster, D. R., Marraccini, M. E., Gudmundsdottir, B. G., Munro, B. A., Rathkey, E. S., & McCallum, A. (October 2016). Prescription stimulant medication misuse: Where are we and where do we go from here? Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology, 24(5), 400–414. https://doi.org/10.1037/pha0000093
- Shoptaw, S. J., Kao, U., Ling, W., & Shapiro, B. (2009). Treatment for amphetamine withdrawal: A review of the evidence. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2009(2), CD003021. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7138250/
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (October 12, 2016). Dealing with ADHD: What you need to know. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/dealing-adhd-what-you-need-know
- Vanicek, T., Spies, M., Rami-Mark, C., Savli, M., Höflich, A., Kranz, G. S., Hahn, A., Kutzelnigg, A., Traub-Weidinger, T., Mitterhauser, M., Wadsak, W., Hacker, M., Volkow, N. D., Kasper, S., & Lanzenberger, R. (December 1, 2014). The norepinephrine transporter in ADHD investigated with positron emission tomography. JAMA Psychiatry, 71(12), 1340–1349. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2014.1226
- Vasan, S., & Olango, G. J. (November 8, 2022). Amphetamine toxicity. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan–. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470276/
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. (January 2019). Treatment approaches for drug addiction drug facts. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/treatment-approaches-drug-addiction
About the content

Written by: Carli Simmonds. Carli Simmonds holds a Master of Arts in Community Health Psychology from Northeastern University. From a young age, she witnessed the challenges her community faced with substance abuse, addiction, and mental health challenges, inspiring her dedication to the field.

Medical reviewed by: Jodi Tarantino, LICSW. Jodi Tarantino is an experienced, licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Program Director with over 20 years of experience in Behavioral Healthcare. Also reviewed by the RRR Editorial team.
Red Ribbon Recovery is committed to delivering transparent, up-to-date, and medically accurate information. All content is carefully written and reviewed by experienced professionals to ensure clarity and reliability. During the editorial and medical review process, our team fact-checks information using reputable sources. Our goal is to create content that is informative, easy to understand and helpful to our visitors.

