Adderall Withdrawal & Detox

Adderall is a medication that contains amphetamines as an active ingredient. Amphetamines are stimulants that increase the amount of norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin in the brain. Increasing these chemicals leads to increased alertness and focus in some people, especially in those with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or Parkinson’s disease. The release of dopamine also causes a high that can lead to misuse and Adderall addiction.

People who take Adderall may develop a tolerance to the drug. Tolerance develops as the body accustoms to the drug and causes the drug’s effects to decrease. This development leads to larger amounts of the drug being needed to obtain the original high.

Adderall also can lead to a small degree of dependence. Dependence occurs as the body becomes used to the presence of the drug. The body changes how it functions to adjust to the presence of the drug. With Adderall, these changes occur primarily in the electrical control of the heart. Dependence makes Adderall detox more complicated, as the electrical rhythm of the heart may change during detox.

Adderall Withdrawal

Adderall withdrawal does not include many of the severe symptoms that people know happen during drug withdrawals, such as seizures and delirium. However, electrical changes in the heart may occur, depending upon the amount and frequency of Adderall use. Adderall withdrawal may also be challenging from an emotional or psychological standpoint because the patient must learn to live without the high from the drug and the feeling of fulfillment from satisfying cravings.

Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms

Adderall withdrawal symptoms do not typically include many of the severe drug withdrawal symptoms experienced with other drugs. However, some withdrawal symptoms may be distressing. As the stimulatory effect of Adderall wears off, extreme fatigue may be experienced for several hours or days, depending upon the amount of Adderall used. People withdrawing from Adderall may also experience changes in the electrical rhythm of their hearts, depending upon the amount and frequency of Adderall use.

As Adderall clears from the bloodstream, patients may experience severe cravings for more Adderall. Depression may also develop during or following Adderall withdrawal due to the physical and emotional stressors of detox. Any depression that develops should be carefully monitored and treated to ensure that it has a minimal effect on the patient’s detox progress. In severe cases, the depression caused during Adderall detox may cause suicidal thoughts or actions.

Adderall Detox Timeline

One common question people have is, “How long does Adderall withdrawal last?” The Adderall withdrawal timeline typically starts several hours after the most recent dose of Adderall. During the next few days, patients may experience an intense crash characterized by intense fatigue. The fatigue and the other symptoms experienced during withdrawal may continue for about a week. The cravings for Adderall or the depression that sometimes occur following Adderall detox may last for weeks or even months, but medical professionals can address both.

Adderall Detox in Washington

The Adderall detox process differs for everyone. The process varies based on the amount of Adderall used, the period of Adderall use and the frequency of Adderall use. When considering Adderall detox, consider the following factors:

• Inpatient or outpatient treatment – Inpatient treatment is best for those who require monitoring during withdrawal, those who have found that outpatient isn’t viable for them or those who have a history of additional substance abuse or mental illness. Outpatient therapy may be better for those who only have an addiction to Adderall and have no other history of drug misuse or mental illness.
• Cost – The cost of seeking treatment can be difficult for some people to accommodate. It is important to find a treatment center that can work with insurance carriers or directly with the individual seeking treatment to develop a financial arrangement.
• Reputation – Finding a reputable treatment center is key to the success of the patient. Typically, treatment centers that are part of a larger network or treatment centers that have a reliable history provide better care than standalone clinics or clinics that do not have a strong background.
• Location – Treatment for Adderall addiction can be more effective if the person receiving treatment is removed from their typical location, especially if their home or social life is not conducive toward treatment goals.
• Follow-up care – Finding a treatment center that focuses on recovery and continued sobriety is necessary for maintaining the positive results of treatment.
• Individual needs – A treatment center understanding the unique needs of each patient is vital to the success of treatment. Each patient has different challenges and it’s important that treatment centers address them in ways that best serve the patient’s health.

Choosing a treatment center can be difficult. The Recovery Village Ridgefield provides caring medical professionals and proven treatment methods that can help you or a loved one recover from addiction and any co-occurring disorders. Contact us and begin your healthier future today.