In this article, we will discuss Adderall withdrawal, the associated psychological symptoms, and potential downsides that can occur when discontinuing the drug.

Adderall is one of the most commonly prescribed stimulants for treating Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD). It is an amphetamine/dextroamphetamine that belongs to a family of prescription drugs known as psychostimulants. It’s estimated that nearly 2.5 million Americans are prescribed Adderall or similar medications, and an even larger number of individuals misuse or abuse the drug.

At Luxury Rehabs Los Angeles, we frequently treat individuals who are suffering from stimulant withdrawal, experiencing what is commonly referred to as an “Adderall crash.”

If you are currently taking Adderall or are considering taking it, this decision should be made in consultation with your doctor. We are not advising you to stop taking Adderall if it has been prescribed for a legitimate medical condition such as ADHD. Our goal is to provide you with a comprehensive guide to Adderall withdrawal so that you can better understand what to expect.

Let’s dive in…

What is Adderall?

Adderall is an amphetamine/dextroamphetamine, which is part of the class of drugs called psychostimulants. It can temporarily improve mental and physical functions by affecting certain neurotransmitters in the brain. This results in increased alertness, focus, and energy levels. Adderall is commonly prescribed to treat ADHD, narcolepsy, and chronic fatigue, and it is sometimes combined with other medications to treat depression. However, Adderall also has a high potential for psychological dependency, which can lead to addiction.

Who is at risk for Adderall abuse?

Understanding the symptoms associated with discontinuing Adderall is important. Overuse can occur even while taking the drug under the supervision of a doctor. However, it has become increasingly popular as a recreational drug, especially among students. This is largely due to its ability to improve academic and work performance.

Adderall Abuse Statistics

Adderall misuse, abuse, and addiction are unfortunately common.

Our statistical analysis reveals that the search volume for “Adderall withdrawal” has risen significantly in recent years. In fact, searches for this term have increased by 170%. Here is a breakdown of key statistics:

• 14.6% of male college students abuse Adderall
• 8.8% of college women abuse Adderall
• 11.1% higher misuse rate among college students than their non-college peers
• 16 million prescriptions for stimulants like Adderall were written in 2012, nearly triple the amount prescribed in 2008.

It is estimated that over 100,000 people annually seek addiction treatment as a result of misusing Adderall. Once you become dependent on the drug, attempts to quit may lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Adderall misuse is most common among people aged 18 to 25. Some individuals use it under medical supervision to treat ADHD, while others acquire it illicitly or abuse it intentionally. Anyone who has been using amphetamines for an extended period can experience withdrawal symptoms. The timeline and long-term effects of Adderall withdrawal can vary, particularly if an individual has developed a tolerance to the drug.

What defines Adderall Abuse?

Adderall is one of the most abused prescription drugs, and its abuse can take several forms. These include taking higher doses than prescribed, using the drug without a prescription, using it via non-approved methods (such as snorting), taking it more frequently than prescribed, or using it for reasons other than those prescribed by a healthcare provider.

The Effects of Abusing Adderall

Abusing Adderall, like any amphetamine, can easily lead to addiction. Over time, users may develop a tolerance to the drug, meaning that they need higher or more frequent doses to achieve the same effect. This can lead to dependency, where the body becomes reliant on the drug to function properly. Eventually, users may become addicted, compulsively seeking the drug and ignoring its risks.

Here are some common symptoms associated with Adderall withdrawal:

• Anger and Irritability: As the drug leaves your system, you may become easily frustrated and aggravated, even for no apparent reason.
• Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Withdrawal can lead to feelings of anxiety and panic without any identifiable trigger.
• Increased Appetite and Weight Gain: Since Adderall is an appetite suppressant, discontinuing it may cause you to feel hungrier than usual.
• Inability to Focus and Concentrate: You may experience difficulty focusing on tasks or retaining information without the drug.
• Dizziness: This symptom is most common within the first few days of withdrawal.
• Fatigue and Laziness: Many people feel extremely fatigued and unmotivated after stopping Adderall, especially if they were reliant on it for energy.
• Foggy Thinking: Without Adderall, your thoughts may feel cloudy or unclear.
• Headaches: Mild headaches are common during withdrawal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
• Mood Swings: Extreme mood fluctuations, ranging from euphoric highs to severe lows, are often reported.
• Nausea: You may experience nausea or vomiting during withdrawal.
• Vivid Dreams: Some people report unusually vivid or intense dreams during withdrawal.
• Intense Depression and Suicidal Thoughts: A decrease in dopamine levels can cause depression, and in severe cases, suicidal thoughts. If you experience these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical help immediately.

Adderall Withdrawal Timeline

Withdrawal symptoms typically appear within a few hours to several days after stopping Adderall. Common symptoms include fatigue, cravings, anxiety, and depression. The typical withdrawal timeline is a few weeks, with symptoms usually improving after 7-10 days.

6-36 hours after the last dose:
Symptoms start to show within a few hours after the last dose, with many people experiencing an “Adderall crash,” which includes depression and extreme fatigue.

3-5 days after the last dose:
The symptoms often worsen in the first week of abstinence. You may experience severe irritability, depression, and continued fatigue, along with headaches and nightmares. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

5-7 days after the last dose:
Symptoms start to lessen as the drug leaves your system, but some feelings of restlessness and irritability may persist.

1 week to 1 month after the last dose:
Some individuals may continue to experience withdrawal symptoms for weeks, particularly those with a high tolerance or who have used the drug for a long period.

Adderall Instant Release vs. Extended Release (XR)

Withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on whether you used Adderall Instant Release (IR) or Adderall Extended Release (XR). Those using XR may experience more severe symptoms compared to those who used IR.

How Long Does Adderall Stay In Your System?

Adderall has a half-life of 9-14 hours, meaning that half of the drug remains in your system during this time. It typically stays in your system for up to 3 days, though this can vary based on several factors.

• Urine Tests – Detect Adderall for 4-7 days
• Saliva Tests – Detect Adderall from 20 minutes to 48 hours
• Hair Follicle Tests – Detect Adderall for 1 week to 3 months
• Blood Tests – Detect Adderall for 12-24 hours

Adderall Detox

If you are a heavy user, an inpatient rehab facility may be the best option for you. Detox can be more comfortable and safer in a medically supervised environment, where doctors can monitor your progress.

At Luxury Rehabs Los Angeles, we offer comprehensive detox programs that help patients manage Adderall withdrawal in a safe and supportive environment.

How to Prevent Withdrawal

The best way to prevent withdrawal is to address the root cause of your dependence. Over time, dependence on Adderall can grow. If you are struggling with withdrawal or Adderall dependency, seeking medical help is essential. Consult with a healthcare provider or consider a residential detox facility like Luxury Rehabs Los Angeles to safely address Adderall withdrawal symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take for Adderall to kick in?
   Typically, it takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

2. Is Adderall meth?
   Adderall belongs to the methamphetamine family and shares similarities with the street drug “Meth.”

3. How can I get Adderall?
   Only a licensed healthcare provider can prescribe Adderall. Misuse or buying it illicitly is illegal.

4. Is Adderall addictive?
   Yes, Adderall addiction can form over time due to dependency on its mood-enhancing effects.

5. Will I experience withdrawal symptoms if I stop taking Adderall?
   If you have been using Adderall under medical supervision, you may experience mild withdrawal symptoms, but they are typically manageable.

6. Are there good alternatives to Adderall?
   Alternatives include behavioral therapies and certain supplements, but it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

If you or someone you know is struggling with Adderall withdrawal or dependency, please contact us at Luxury Rehabs Los Angeles at (844) 897-3268 for help. We’re here to support you through every step of your recovery journey.