What Does Adderall Look Like? Dosages, Risks, & Side Effects

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is the brand name for the combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, sometimes known as amphetamine salts. The two components are Schedule II drugs and stimulants of the central nervous system. Substances listed in Schedule II have a high potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction.

Dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters linked to controlling mood, motivation, and alertness, are released more readily due to Adderall, which is its primary effect. Dopamine is made more readily available in the brain by Adderall, which may also prevent its breakdown. The precise mechanism through which Adderall controls ADHD and narcolepsy symptoms is unknown.

There are two types of Adderall: Adderall XR, which has an extended-release, and Adderall IR, which has an immediate release. While Adderall XR is typically taken once daily, Adderall IR is often taken every four to six hours.

Skip To:

• What Is Adderall?
• What is Adderall Used For?
• What Does Adderall Look Like?
• Pills That Look Like Adderall
• Adderall Dosage and Administration
• Adderall Side Effects
• Adderall Overdose
• Adderall Addiction Treatment

Learn More:

• What Does Adderall Do?
• Adderall Side Effects
• 30 mg Adderall – Effects and Risks of Addiction

17%

 A 2015 study estimated that 17% of college students misused stimulant medications, including Adderall. 

Source: SAMHSA

6.5 million

The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) estimates that nearly 6.5 million Americans over 12 have used methylphenidate for non-medical uses in their lifetime.

Source: NSDUH

What is Adderall Used For?

While Adderall XR is only approved for treating ADHD, Adderall IR is FDA-approved to treat ADHD and narcolepsy in adults and children. Adderall helps lessen impulsivity and hyperactivity while enhancing focus and attention for people with ADHD.

Adderall, a Schedule II regulated substance, can be addictive even when taken as directed. Because of the tolerance brought up by repeated usage of Adderall, increasing doses are required to produce the same results. Adderall dependency is characterized by withdrawal symptoms when the amount is decreased or stopped, but it is not followed by excessive drug-seeking behavior.

Excessive and irrational daytime sleepiness is a defining feature of narcolepsy. Adderall, which promotes wakefulness, may make it possible for patients with narcolepsy to continue with their regular daily habits. Additionally, Adderall has off-label usage for conditions like treatment-resistant depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. There is some debate, though, over whether Adderall is helpful for specific needs.

Adderall is often misused for its stimulant properties. High school and college students are particularly likely to misuse Adderall for its ability to enhance focus and concentration, hence its popularity as a “study drug.” Some people use Adderall as an alternative to other stimulants, such as methamphetamine.

Adderall Dosage and Administration

Always take Adderall at the lowest possible dose, then gradually increase it as needed until an adequate amount is reached. The usual starting dose is 5 mg per day. Until a sufficient level is reached, the dosage can be raised at a rate of 5 mg per week. The highest daily dose advised is 40 mg (for narcolepsy, the maximum recommended dose is 60 mg daily). The first dose is given as soon as you wake up, with successive doses spaced 4-6 hours apart. Over the counter pills that look like Adderall may include Noocube, Mind Lab Pro, and BrainPill.

Adderall Addiction Treatment

To help patients stop using drugs and maintain their long-term health, we work with highly qualified addiction specialists to give them the necessary knowledge and strategies. We offer dual-diagnosis treatment programs for patients who experience drug addiction and other disorders and co-occurring mental health issues.

A thorough We Level Up NJ treatment program that combines evidence-based and cognitive behavioral therapy can help those addicted to drugs. Some drug addicts may be suitable for treatment at a specialized institution like ours, depending on how badly their drug addiction has affected them.

If you’re struggling with drug addiction, get in touch to discuss your options for care and find out how we can help you get started on the road to recovery. At all times, you can count on us. To help your recovery through our medication-assisted treatment approach, We Level Up NJ provides necessary care with 24-hour medical staff. Call us immediately to speak with a counseling specialist and take back your life. Our therapists will care for your worries because they know your difficulties.