Adderall Withdrawal Timeline ​

Why Is Adderall Addictive?

Adderall is a stimulant prescription drug commonly prescribed to treat symptoms of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). When someone abuses Adderall and takes it for reasons other than the prescribed purpose, individuals can feel similar stimulant effects to taking meth. The likelihood of individuals who abuse Adderall developing drug dependence and increased risk of addiction is high. 

Adderall works by increasing the level of dopamine and norepinephrine within the central nervous system. Norepinephrine is responsible for how your brain can respond to situations or events, and the dopamine receptor impacts the “feel good” rewarding effects. While the central nervous system and brain produce dopamine naturally, Adderall abuse increases the level of dopamine to a significantly higher level. When individuals attempt to stop taking the drug, there are significant withdrawal symptoms and side effects that can occur that are unpleasant or uncomfortable, often leading individuals to resume taking the drug to eliminate any severe withdrawal symptoms.