Portland, OR – Serenity Lane recently published a blog post that revealed the risks of using adderall for those who do not have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Adderall is a brand name for a central nervous system stimulant medication made from a combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. It comes in two forms: immediate-release and extended-release. Central nervous system stimulants alter how the body sends and receives messages while playing a role in how dopamine is released and recycled. They increase energy and motivation while influencing feelings of satisfaction and euphoria. Adderall is a controlled substance that helps treat ADHD.

“For people who have ADHD, their dopamine production isn’t regular. Whether this means they have a harder time producing it, or that their dopamine receptors aren’t as efficient as that of someone without ADHD. Research suggests that this disrupted dopamine neurotransmission plays a large role in behaviors like inattention and low motivation. This is where Adderall comes into play. Adderall causes an increase in dopamine production while also assisting dopamine receptors in holding and reading the dopamine more effectively,” the blog post states.

For those who do not have ADHD, it can cause too much of a good thing. This is because it still increases dopamine levels, but to levels that are considered beyond “normal” rates. Heightened dopamine feels good in the short term, but it can have negative effects. Excessive dopamine production has been linked to deteriorative health conditions like Parkinson’s disease. It is never safe to take medication that has not been prescribed to the person taking it. For Adderall, there can be many negative consequences that include concerns with an increased heart rate and breathing. It can also put someone at risk of an overdose.

An Adderall use disorder is a real condition. Those who are prescribed ADHD medications are at no higher risk of developing this condition than anyone else. The factors that can increase someone’s risk include an untreated mental health condition, high stress, and trauma. Someone might develop this condition to experience the euphoric effects that it might bring. The more often they use the substance, the higher their chance of becoming physically dependent on it. If someone stops taking Adderall when they have an Adderall use disorder, they might experience side effects such as intense cravings, which is known as withdrawal. Other common side effects of Adderall withdrawal include headaches, irritability, increased depression, fatigue, low motivation, tremors, appetite changes, and restlessness. This is why many doctors will slowly taper someone off a medication like Adderall if that person is ceasing the prescription, as it reduces the chance of withdrawal.

“If you or a loved one are looking to find a safe and caring environment to begin your healing journey away from Adderall, there are options available for you right here in Oregon. An Adderall addiction treatment program is a great first step towards walking your new path of recovery,” the blog post states.

Serenity Lane provides a full continuum of care, from detox to outpatient, for those with an Adderall use disorder in the Portland area. Their many outpatient locations across Oregon allow many individuals to continue their treatment locally after completing residential care. They are one of the oldest non-profit programs in the state and offer specialty programs for families, first responders, healthcare professionals, and more.

Visit their website or call 800-543-9905 to learn more about Serenity Lane today.

Serenity Lane – Finding serenity in long-term recovery.

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For more information about Serenity Lane Portland East, contact the company here:

Serenity Lane Portland East
Stephanie Edwards
(503) 546-7677
info@serenitylane.org
12662 SE Stark, Plaza 125 Bldg. A.
Portland, OR, 97233