This article will explain everything you need to know about what Adderall is, the different varieties and how people choose to take it. It will also include the risks and precautionary advice you should follow before you seek to buy Adderall for recreational purposes.
If you are being prescribed Adderall by your doctor and you are concerned about the risk, speak to them about finding a more suitable alternative. Do not stop taking Adderall if you have been prescribed it without the advice of a medical professional.
Why do people take Adderall?
Many people, adults and children, take Adderall as it is prescribed to them for medical conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is characterised by hyperactivity, impulsive behaviour, and inattention. Adderall is prescribed to people managing their ADHD because it can help them feel less restless, focus on things more effectively, and respond better when they are given tasks.
For some people who take Adderall, their levels of activity can increase, while others find their concentration decreases. The increase in energy that people experience when taking Adderall makes it tempting to use it recreationally. As it is a medication, people wanting to use it for this purpose end up having to buy Adderall.
These drugs are often used recreationally, especially among teenagers, to boost energy and enhance mood. Adderall is a popular "smart drug" and is often used by college and university students to help them study and take exams. Under the increasing competing pressure, students and adults functioning in high demanding work roles are seeking nootropics and chemical stimulants.
Many people choose to buy Adderall to help study for longer or pull all-nighters. However, others use Adderall to improve their mood or to suppress their appetite.
Medication should not be used in this way as it has the potential for abuse. Adderall is a medication to help improve the attention span of those who are unable to focus for medical reasons. When you use prescription stimulants for recreational purposes you put yourself at risk of addiction.
What are the different types of Adderall?
There are two different types of Adderall designed that release the medication at different rates depending on what the patient needs. Adderall is a mixture of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine which are both prescription stimulants.
As ADHD brains seek out stimulation, when they lack stimulation it can be hard to stay motivated. Using amphetamine-based stimulants can help people improve their focus and make symptoms of ADHD more manageable. Below is some information about different types of Adderall and how they are used.
Adderall IR
Adderall IR is the immediate release version of Adderall. When someone is prescribed Adderall IR it is usually taken multiple times throughout the day. Someone taking this type of Adderall might take it two or three times a day. Adderall IR is available in the form of a small tablet to help you manage your dosage.
Adderall IR is the type often used recreationally for its immediate short term effects.
Adderall XR
Adderall XR is the extended-release version of Adderall and typically lasts between 10-12 hours. The extended version of Adderall is designed to help you be more flexible with managing your medication. Those who are taking Adderall XR may find that they need to take the additional medication in order to manage their symptoms of ADHD.
Adderall XR might be a useful alternative for those who experience a "crashing" feeling from taking Adderall IR. Adderall XR is in small compact capsules designed to slowly release the medication to your body over a series of hours.
Precautions and Contraindications
As Adderall is an amphetamine-type stimulant it can become addictive if used incorrectly or recreationally. If you have a history of addiction and are seeking medication to treat ADHD or narcolepsy, make sure to let your doctor know. Addiction is a factor that should be considered before being prescribed Adderall as many people find they have trouble after establishing a tolerance.
As a precaution, you should not take Adderall if you are prescribed medication for bipolar disorder, cardiovascular disease, glaucoma, high blood pressure or liver problems.
What are the risks and warnings I should know about?
Several side effects can occur as a result of using Adderall irresponsibly. One of the noticeable side effects in adults is a change in libido and sexual performance. Some people can have an allergic reaction to Adderall, this causes the throat, tongue or face to swell uncomfortably. If this happens immediately seek medical help. There are other common side effects usually linked to continued use of Adderall. These side effects are listed below.
The common side effects include:
• Increased heart rate
• Increased blood pressure
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vivid dreams
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Confusion
• Anxiety
What is Adderall abuse and what does it look like?
Adderall abuse is the phrase used to describe the use of Adderall for recreational use or more often than is prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist. If you think you are abusing Adderall then you should talk to your doctor right away. If you are repeatedly taking Adderall to feel a sense of euphoria, then you are likely to become dependent or addicted.
Due to the potency of Adderall and its close relationship to methamphetamine, it can be extremely addictive. If you are regularly using Adderall, your body can start to become more tolerant of it if you don't take breaks. At some point, your body might not be able to function without it, and this is when you begin to go through withdrawal.
Symptoms of Adderall withdrawal or crash are:
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Paranoia
- Panic Attacks
- Thoughts about suicide
- Depression
- Increased heart rate
A doctor can help determine if you are suffering from an Adderall addiction by speaking to you about your experience and side effects. They may also choose to do a physical exam which can include testing your heart rate or taking a fluid sample.
What are the signs of an overdose?
The signs of an overdose include chest pain, heart attack, fast breathing, and other health issues. Adderall is not a generic medication and can cause damage to your body with long-term use when prescribed incorrectly or obtained without a valid prescription for recreational use.
How can I get help in the UK?
If you are dealing with drug addiction, you are entitled to care by the NHS. If you begin by speaking with a general practitioner they can help point you in the right direction. In the UK help is available through the NHS but also through charity organisations or a local drugs service.
There are options for private drug rehabilitation organisations but these can be quite expensive. In some cases, the NHS might refer you to a local private service for treatment. When you began any type of program it will be unique to your addiction. However, in most cases, you are likely to be asked for either a saliva sample or a urine sample.
UK Rehab offers advice and services for stimulant-based addiction, like Adderal, in the UK.
What are the alternatives to Adderall in the UK?
As Adderall is illegal in the UK, there are other medications prescribed as stimulants for ADHD and narcolepsy. The UK has its own alternatives to Adderall which is prescribed with care. The UK alternatives to Adderall for ADHD are:
- dexamfetamine
- methylphenidate (Ritalin)
- lisdexamfetamine
- atomoxetine