Adderall is often prescribed to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD (as well as narcolepsy and depression) and is a drug that can help people sit down and focus who normally could not do so for long stretches of time. But Adderall or speed, has taken on a more sinister role as it has become popular on college campuses as a chemical study aid for all nighters before exams. One study suggested that as many as 1 in 5 college students had taken Aderall or its twin Ridalin to help them study at some point.
Speed
Aderall is an amphetamine, reformulated and repackaged, but very much like amphetamines that have been around for years. It is said that Jack Keroauc wrote On The Road on a 20-day Benzedrine binge (another amphetamine) on a 120-foot long scroll on his typewriter.
Effects
Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant and works primarily through the neurotransmitter, dopamine initially producing great results. Users say that they feel refreshed, more alert and energized and are able to concentrate and think faster and longer. It also has the effect of increasing heart rate, respiration and blood pressure. As with most amphetamines, what goes up must come down, and after a few hours of productivity there is a crash which is often expressed through irritability, vomiting, mental confusion and feelings of exhaustion. Although taken in the correct dosage under the supervision of a medical professional, Adderall can be an effective solution for some people, it does have a high potential for abuse as recognized by the FDA when it labeled it a Schedule II Controlled Substance (the same as Morphine.)
Risks
The potential problem with Adderall and amphetamines is that as usage becomes habitual, tolerance also increases requiring higher and higher doses of the drug for similar effects which can lead to addiction. And overdosing on Aderall can be fatal. In 2005, Canada went so far as to ban Adderall XR after linking it to 20 deaths and 12 strokes, although the ban has since been lifted. Amphetamines have also been linked in some cases to anxiety disorder, psychosis, and sexual dysfunction. Emergency medical attention should be sought if you experience any of the following symptoms: muscle twitches, hallucinations, delusions and irregular heart beat. Sudden heart attacks have been reported by some who showed no symptoms of prior heart problems.
Withdrawal
Furthermore, long-term use of Adderall can alter brain function permanently due to irregular blood flow to the brain which can lead to chronic convulsions and tremors. After prolonged and regular use of Adderall, stopping abruptly can also result in problems. People suffer from withdrawal symptoms including tiredness, crankiness, extreme hunger, nightmares and severe, often suicidal, depression. A gradual reduction is highly recommended. Because of the highly addictive potential of Adderall and its increasing availability, professional help may be required in the form of rehab or substance abuse therapy.
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