Even though Adderall is a common prescription medication, many may still wonder, “What is Adderall used for?” This attitude is due to the prescription drug being known for people misusing it and eventually becoming addicted to its stimulating effects. Adderall has many legitimate medical uses, but the side effects of an addiction to it can be life-threatening. This type of addiction may result in developing cardiovascular disease, losing weight in an unhealthy way, and even experiencing psychotic symptoms. People struggling with Adderall addiction may benefit from professional substance abuse treatment.

If you’re looking for an Adderall addiction treatment program in Massachusetts, contact Rockland Recovery today. Call 855.732.4842 or reach out to our team online. Our team is standing by to answer any questions you might have about our substance abuse treatment programs.

What Is Adderall Used For?

Adderall is a prescription stimulant drug combination often used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. A variant of this medication combination is Adderall XR. While Adderall offers an immediate release of the drugs in the body upon taking them, Adderall XR offers an extended-release. This means that the drugs may last longer in the body after a dose of Adderall XR. Immediate-release forms of the drug combo are available in oral tablet form, while extended-release forms are available as capsules.

Adderall Generic: Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine

Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine are the generic names of the drugs that make up Adderall. Both belong to the group of drugs called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants.

Prescription central nervous system stimulants are typically used in treatment plans for ADHD and narcolepsy. These two conditions are what Adderall is typically prescribed for. Other examples of CNS stimulants include:

  • Atomoxetine
  • Armodafinila man talking to his doctor about adderall addiction
  • Lisdexamfetamine
  • Methylphenidate
  • Modafinil
  • Pitolisant
  • Solriamfetol

Illicit addictive substances such as cocaine, ecstasy, and methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) are also CNS stimulants.

Vyvanse vs. Adderall

Vyvanse and Adderall are popular prescription CNS stimulants. Both CNS stimulants were approved to treat ADHD. But here’s where the similarities end when considering Vyvanse vs. Adderall. Vyvanse is not approved for children under the age of six but was also approved to treat binge eating disorders in individuals over the age of 18. Adderall, on the other hand, was also approved to treat narcolepsy.

What Are Some Adderall Side Effects?

The main problematic side effect of taking Adderall is the risk of misusing it and developing a tolerance. This leads to maintaining an Adderall addiction, which could lead eventually to an overdose.

At the point of addiction, it’s essential to ask when the person struggling with the addiction is going to get admitted into a prescription drug addiction treatment program.

Signs of Adderall addiction to watch out for include:

  • Building a tolerance to Adderall and taking progressively higher doses of it
  • Craving Adderall
  • Continuing to use Adderall even though its use is causing problems
  • Difficulty taking care of responsibilities due to Adderall use
  • Inability to cut back on Adderall use
  • Not participating in previously enjoyed activities
  • Spending a lot of time acquiring and using Adderall or recovering from its effects
  • Taking Adderall in larger amounts or over a longer period than prescribed
  • Using Adderall in dangerous situations

When Should You Get Admitted Into an Adderall Addiction Treatment Program?

Adderall can be life-changing for people struggling with ADHD and narcolepsy. However, many people misuse the prescription drug and place themselves at risk of addiction. An Adderall addiction can interfere with a person’s health, relationships, schoolwork, or employment. If you or someone you care about is experiencing any of that, it may be time to get professional help.

A prescription drug addiction treatment program can help people break free from Adderall addiction. Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management, can help clients stop using Adderall and learn new strategies to maintain sobriety. CBT, in particular, teaches clients how to manage their triggers and adjust thought patterns that may lead to Adderall abuse. Contingency management, in comparison, rewards clients for behaviors related to sobriety.

Learn More About Rockland Recovery’s Adderall Addiction Treatment Program

When you or someone you care about is ready to enter an Adderall addiction treatment program, reach out to Rockland Recovery online or at 855.732.4842. Our comprehensive approach to addiction treatment helps people find the strength to overcome addiction, so contact Rockland Recovery today to see how we can help you or a loved one.