Adderall abuse is a common problem. In America it is easily prescribed and can also be obtained illegally. Adderall abuse is widely seen amongst college students. Loved ones who are concerned about Adderall addiction may wonder, “What category of drugs does Adderall fall under?” Read on to find the answer to this question and more about this drug.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription stimulant drug that is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, belonging to the amphetamine drug class. It is available in immediate formulation as well as extended-release formation. The primary function of Adderall is to help people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or to help people with narcolepsy.
Adderall can deliver somewhat of a calming effect on a person with ADHD when they take the prescription medication. This is primarily due to the way it affects the brain’s neurotransmitters and the central nervous system as a whole. Adderall can help a person to focus and concentrate more effectively while managing their behaviors.
Unfortunately, Adderall is commonly abused in the United States. When a person without ADHD takes Adderall, the drug reacts differently in their bodies, leading to a “high” feeling. Signs of being high on Adderall include:
- Excess self-confidence
- A sense of extra energy or excitement
- Euphoria
- Optimism
Adderall can be helpful for people who need it as a prescribed medication, but there are short-term side effects that are not desirable, including headache, anxiety, nausea, increased blood pressure or fast heart rate.
Is Adderall Addictive?
Another problem with Adderall is that there is a risk of addiction. The availability of Adderall has become greater due to an increase in the number of prescriptions written every year. Adderall misuse is most common among young adults and college students. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, an estimated 6.4 percent of students between the ages of 18 and 22 have used Adderall recreationally.
To further answer the question, “What category of drugs does Adderall fall under?”, Adderall is labeled a Schedule II controlled substance, which means it has a high potential for abuse. This label should serve as a warning for anybody taking the drug as it can lead to physical or psychological dependence that can be severe. Thousands of young adults are sent to the emergency room each year for Adderall abuse and the dangerous side effects, including:
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Rapid breathing
- Hallucinations
- Tremors
- Very high fever (of 106.7 or higher)
- Seizures
- Heart attack
- Death
How to Get Help With an Adderall Addiction
It is not easy to admit that you or a loved one has a substance abuse problem. It can be even harder to ask for help. If you or someone you care about are struggling with Adderall addiction, you need and deserve help and My Recovery Source is available to help you find just that. Our caring recovery guides are here to help, regardless of your personal situation, location, background or finances. My Recovery Source is the #1 place to help you find the best help available to you or your loved one for drug and alcohol abuse. Contact us today for free personalized recommendations for you.
