Adderall Overdose | Can You Overdose on Adderall?
Adderall is a fixed-dose combination drug that contains amphetamines. These compounds are known collectively as ‘stimulants’ and are used to treat a number of neurological conditions and disorders like narcolepsy. Adderall, in particular, is notably used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In addition to its primary function, Adderall is used as a performance enhancer in athletics and academics alike.
Individuals suffering from ADHD see the most benefit from Adderall use. Adults and children alike receive prescriptions to counteract the distractibility and absent-mindedness which characterizes the disorder. The amphetamines found within Adderall lead to marked changes in cognitive responses. Patients using the drug report improved thought processing, motivation, attentiveness, task management and more. These features make it a blessing for those that desperately need it for classroom, workplace or day-to-day function. But it also leads to Adderall being frequently misused.
This occurs predominantly at institutions of higher learning across the United States. College campuses are breeding grounds for Adderall misuse. Though many college students do use it as directed for medicinal purposes, it is also a common drug for recreational use. University students are two times more likely to abuse Adderall than other groups, and upwards of 30 percent of college students take it regularly.
Adderall is prescribed to millions of patients of all ages each year. Millions more use it illegally. Amphetamines such as Adderall are so widely used that is essential that everyone, especially students and young professionals, have a firm grasp on its overdose potential, overdose symptoms, and treatment options.
Seeking addiction treatment can feel overwhelming. We know the struggle, which is why we're uniquely qualified to help.
Your call is confidential, and there's no pressure to commit to treatment until you're ready. As a voluntary facility, we're here to help you heal -- on your terms. Our sole focus is getting you back to the healthy, sober life you deserve, and we are ready and waiting to answer your questions or concerns 24/7.
Speak to an Intake Coordinator now.352.771.2700Stimulants are part of a pattern of using “upper” drugs as crutches for unhealthy studying practices, as means to enhance and prolong nights out, and as an edge in instances where focus is paramount, such as extracurricular activities, tests and midterm examinations. Such unrestrained use can lead to substance use disorders.
Recreational consumption may lead to euphoric highs or unintended consequences such as overdoses. Adderall overdose symptoms are often self-identifiable, and may include:
- Feelings of anxiety, panic or paranoia
- Sustained depression
- Restlessness
- Blurry or foggy vision
- Clumsiness or uncoordinated behavior
- Overpowering bodily shaking and spasms
- Bouts of hallucinations
- Diarrhea and stomach pain or cramping
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Discolored urine
- Trouble breathing
- Visible twitching
- Hyperactivity
- Aggressive tendencies
- Irregular pulse
- Fever or elevated body temperature (hyperthermia)
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Psychosis
- Unconsciousness or fainting
There may a certain stigma attached to contacting authorities as a student, even in life-threatening situations. This can never be an excuse to overlook symptoms, or worse, attempt to ride out an overdose to avoid medical intervention or legal trouble. Many states offer protection and immunity for victims and Good Samaritans alike. The intent of such laws and university rules is to protect everyone involved in these precarious scenarios, even if they happen to be underage. Always do the right thing by getting treatment for yourself or others.
Amphetamine overdose victims need to be stabilized. A cool, calm environment is the best place to achieve this. Though a hospital setting is obviously the most ideal place to get help, bystanders can calm victims in the interim. Because Adderall is often used in a social setting, there is a good chance the victim knows someone in their immediate surroundings. This person should reassure the individual who is overdosing until an ambulance arrives.
If necessary, doctors may choose to use a method called gastric lavage to remove the Adderall from the victim’s system via an esophagus tube.
Dosage amounts vary from person to person. Some may experience problems at 30 mg of Adderall, while others with higher tolerances may consume several hundred or thousand milligrams without issue. Generally, anywhere above 70–100 mg verges into dangerous terrain. Whatever the exact amount may be, there is no question that Adderall has the potential for abuse and overdose if not treated with careful consideration and respect. Its current reputation as a harmless study aid is a dangerous falsification of the truth.
Just because a pill is prescribed by a doctor doesn’t mean it isn’t dangerous. If you suspect that you or someone you know is struggling with Adderall addiction, coming to terms with the problem is the first step. Seeking help is the second. Reach out to The Recovery Village today for more information about our evidence-based treatment programs and experienced clinicians. Healing is closer than you think.
Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
Seeking addiction treatment can feel overwhelming. We know the struggle, which is why we're uniquely qualified to help.
Your call is confidential, and there's no pressure to commit to treatment until you're ready. As a voluntary facility, we're here to help you heal -- on your terms. Our sole focus is getting you back to the healthy, sober life you deserve, and we are ready and waiting to answer your questions or concerns 24/7.
Speak to an Intake Coordinator now.352.771.2700