What is Adderall?

Adderall is commonly prescribed to patients to treat the symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Adderall is a mixture of amphetamine salts. It acts as a central nervous system stimulant for chemicals in the brain. While Adderall helps many patients overcome their illnesses, improper use of this drug has been increasing in young people.

Adderall misuse

Adderall has grown in popularity in recent years with young adults and students who do not have a prescription. Prescriptions for Adderall have not increased, meaning the people are getting this drug from friends and family members who have a prescription. One study found 60 percent of Adderall nonmedical use was among 18-to-25-year-old individuals.

Students across the country are using Adderall to help increase focus and study all night long because of the stimulant effects that come from using amphetamine. Another study showed an estimated 30 percent of students had used Adderall as a study drug. Young people crush, snort, dissolve in water or even inject Adderall into their systems. Injection being among the most dangerous uses because portions of the tablets can block small blood vessels.

What are the side effects?

Side effects of Adderall use include:

• Exaggerated confidence
• Restlessness
• Difficulty sleeping and staying asleep
• Anxiety

Fatal overdose from Adderall abuse can occur because of heart attack, stroke, and/or liver failure. Mixing Adderall with other substances, such as alcohol, can dramatically increase the risk of fatal overdose. Forensic Fluids Laboratories can test for Adderall by detecting amphetamines.