Studies show that 20% of college students in the U.S. misuse prescription stimulants for non-medical reasons, though some estimates are as high as 35%.
Prescription stimulants like Adderall are appealing to young people because they help them stay awake longer, study harder, and feel more confident overall. Here in Yavapai County, Arizona, 4% of 12th graders reported using prescription stimulants at some point in their lifetimes. As these students transition to college, the use of stimulants may increase as they look for ways to cope with their new responsibilities. However, misusing Adderall can prove detrimental to a young person’s health over time, putting them at risk for dependence and overdose.
While Adderall overdose can happen to anyone who misuses the medication, it’s more likely to happen to individuals who take higher or more frequent doses or combine Adderall with other substances like alcohol. Since this is more common among high school and college students, it’s important to recognize the signs of a potential overdose and how to respond. If you or a loved one is experiencing Adderall dependence, know that Wolf Creek Recovery is here for you.
What Is an Adderall Overdose?
An Adderall overdose happens when someone takes a dose of Adderall (amphetamine-dextroamphetamine) that exceeds the body’s ability to metabolize it safely, leading to toxic levels of the substance in the system. This can result in physical and psychological symptoms—some of which can be serious and life-threatening. By recognizing the signs of a potential overdose and seeking medical intervention, you can prevent serious harm or loss of life.
Risk Factors for Adderall Overdose
Certain people are at a heightened risk for taking a toxic amount of Adderall. However, it’s important to know that even if you are not considered high risk, overdose can still happen if you misuse the medication. Always follow the prescribed dose and schedule to avoid negative effects. Here are the key risk factors for Adderall overdose:
- High dosage or misuse. This is the greatest risk factor for overdose, especially with extended or repeated use. Using Adderall without a prescription or for non-medical reasons is also problematic, as you don’t know how the medication is going to affect you.
- Polysubstance use. Combining Adderall with other stimulants, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, can amplify its effects and toxicity. Mixing Adderall with alcohol can mask the effects of intoxication, leading to overuse of one or both substances. Even antidepressants or supplements can contribute to toxic effects.
- Underlying health conditions. Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular issues are at a greater risk of overdose. Mental health disorders like anxiety or depression can also lead to Adderall misuse, as a person might self-treat their symptoms.
- Tolerance and dependence. Prolonged use of Adderall can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects. This, in turn, increases overdose risk. Additionally, psychological or physical dependence can cause a person to take more than their body can handle.
Dangers of Adderall Overdose
Just because Adderall is a medication prescribed by doctors does not make it risk-free. Adderall is a safe medication for many people when used as directed. However, stepping outside these guidelines presents a number of risks, including overdose. While many people recover fully from overdose with the proper medical support, there can be more serious effects that occur, and it’s important to be aware of them.
Cardiovascular risks, such as rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, or heart failure, are concerns with Adderall overdose, as the medication can place stress on the heart. Excessive doses of Adderall can also trigger seizures, severe headaches, or stroke. It’s even possible to experience severe anxiety or panic, psychosis, aggression, or violent behavior because the nervous system is overstimulated. This can cause a person to feel anxious or confused.
Like opioids, toxic amounts of Adderall can cause breathing difficulties, ranging from shallow breathing to complete respiratory failure. Overdose can also lead to hyperthermia, muscle breakdown, and other long-term risks such as kidney, liver, and brain damage. Fortunately, overdose can almost always be prevented by taking the medication as prescribed, avoiding harmful interactions (e.g., alcohol, caffeine), and storing pills properly.
Adderall Overdose Symptoms
Symptoms of overdose can range from mild to severe, depending on the person, the dosage of Adderall they take, how often they take it, and other factors. Since overdose can affect multiple systems in the body, prompt recognition and medical intervention are crucial.
Physical Symptoms:
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- High or low blood pressure
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Hyperventilation (rapid breathing)
- Elevated body temperature
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle symptoms like twitching or tremors
- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain
Neurological Symptoms:
- Seizures
- Severe headaches
- Restlessness or agitation
- Confusion or disorientation
- Paranoia or delusions
- Hallucinations
Psychological Symptoms:
- Extreme anxiety
- Aggression or hostility
- Euphoria or mood swings
- Insomnia
What to Do if Someone Is Overdosing on Adderall
An Adderall overdose is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect that someone may have a toxic amount of Adderall in their system, don’t delay in seeking help. Every minute can make a difference between life and death. As such, the first thing you’ll want to do is call 911. Provide the dispatcher with as much information as possible, such as the person’s condition, the amount of Adderall taken, and any other substances involved.
Stay calm and focused. Check the person’s vital signs and watch for seizures. If the person is not breathing or their breathing is shallow, perform CPR if you are trained to do so. You can also provide basic first aid to keep the person calm and avoid worsening their symptoms. Don’t restrain the person, unless you absolutely need to, as this can be distressing for them. If the person is vomiting, turn them on their side to prevent choking.
Long-Term Impacts of an Adderall Overdose
Surviving an Adderall overdose doesn’t always mean that there will be no lasting effects. There are actually a number of long-term effects that can occur depending on the dose that was consumed, the person’s overall health, the speed of medical intervention, and the extent of damage to the organs and nervous system.
Due to the stress that Adderall overdose can place on the heart, some people remain at an elevated risk of heart attack or stroke. Neurological impairments are also a concern, such as memory loss, cognitive decline, and seizure disorders, particularly in those who were oxygen deprived during the overdose. Other organ systems that can be negatively affected are the kidneys, liver, and lungs.
It’s also not uncommon to have mental health issues after experiencing Adderall overdose, as long-term stimulant use can lead to paranoia, psychosis, chronic anxiety or depression, or dependence. In most cases, an overdose signals misuse, and this increases the risk of continued use of Adderall and potentially other substances as well. This is why many people who experience an overdose seek professional treatment once they have physically recovered.
Adderall Addiction Treatment in Prescott, AZ
“Adderall addiction,” is a type of amphetamine use disorder that can affect your physical, mental, and social well-being. However, with proper Adderall addiction treatment and support, recovery is achievable. The best approach typically involves a combination of medical care, therapy, and lifestyle changes tailored toward the individual’s needs.
Suddenly stopping Adderall can cause unpleasant withdrawal effects, which is why a tapered approach is recommended. You’ll gradually reduce your dose under medical supervision to minimize withdrawal symptoms. Medications may be prescribed to address withdrawal symptoms like depression, fatigue, or insomnia. Most of the physical symptoms subside around a week or so, allowing you to start a treatment program that offers therapy, counseling, and peer support.
Some of the best treatments for amphetamine use disorder include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), support groups, stress management, healthy routines, and social support. While there are no FDA-approved medications to treat an Adderall problem, medications like antidepressants, sleep aids, and non-stimulant medications can help manage withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring conditions. As long as you follow your treatment plan, a full recovery is within reach.
If you or a loved one is experiencing substance use, Wolf Creek Recovery can help. We know that some people are led towards Adderall for innocent reasons, but this medication can be dangerous when used outside of the prescribed guidelines. Aside from our individual, group, and family therapy sessions, we offer clients a robust outdoor therapy program where they can learn new skills and hobbies that build confidence and create structure. Get in touch with us today at 833-732-8202 to learn more.
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FAQs About Adderall Overdose
How much Adderall does it take to overdose?
The amount of Adderall required to overdose differs based on age, weight, tolerance, and overall health. However, mild toxicity is around 20-50 mg, severe toxicity is around 70-100 mg, and potentially fatal toxicity is 150 mg or greater.
Is there any way to reverse an Adderall overdose?
There is no specific way to reverse an Adderall overdose, but timely intervention can turn things around quickly. Various medications and supportive therapies are available to manage symptoms, such as beta blockers, cooling blankets, IV fluids, respiratory support, and monitoring.
What are the long-term dangers of Adderall overdose?
Surviving an overdose doesn’t mean there won’t be lasting damage. It’s possible that you may have lingering effects, such as mental health issues, cardiovascular concerns, and neurological issues. Additionally, overdose often signals misuse, which means you may require treatment for amphetamine use disorder as well.
