Millions of people in the United States take prescription stimulants to manage attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other conditions. Adderall is one of the most commonly prescribed stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD.
People who abuse Adderall may become dependent on it. People may misuse Adderall by taking larger doses than prescribed, using it recreationally, or ingesting it differently than prescribed.
Some people who misuse Adderall crush and snort pills. Snorting Adderall is dangerous and may lead to short and long-term harm. This article will explore the dangers of snorting Adderall. You will learn:
- How Adderall abuse and addiction develop
- The risks of snorting Adderall
- How to recognize Adderall abuse
- The signs of an Adderall overdose
- Where to find Adderall addiction treatment
If you or someone you love struggles with Adderall abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find comprehensive substance use disorder (SUD) treatment at Archstone Recovery. Contact our intake team to learn about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription drug containing a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. People may take prescription stimulants like Adderall to manage ADHD and other conditions.
Some people abuse Adderall for its stimulant effects. Adderall abuse is most common among teens, college students, and young adults. Studies suggest that about 60% of non-prescription Adderall use occurs among 18 to 25-year-olds.
People may misuse Adderall in several ways. Adderall misuse includes:
- Taking larger doses than prescribed
- Taking doses more often than prescribed
- Taking Adderall for a longer period than prescribed
- Using Adderall recreationally (without a prescription)
- Ingesting it differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting pills
Adderall abuse increases the risk of short and long-term health effects. One of the most significant risks of Adderall abuse is an overdose, which can be life-threatening.
Recognizing Adderall abuse and seeking treatment right away can help people avoid potentially life-threatening complications.
What are the Risks of Snorting Adderall
Adderall is a potent central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. Snorting Adderall allows more of the drug to reach the bloodstream in a shorter period. People who misuse Adderall are at increased risk of a deadly overdose and other serious health complications.
Some signs of an Adderall overdose include:
- Agitation
- Fast breathing
- Irregular heartbeat or heart rhythm
- Chest pain
- Abdominal cramping
- Dangerously high blood pressure
- Confusion
- Panic
- Aggression
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Dangerously high body temperature
- Diarrhea
- Seizures
- Tremors
People may lose consciousness or go into a coma. If you or someone near you is exhibiting signs of an Adderall overdose, seek emergency medical treatment immediately. Call 911 and remain with the person until EMS arrives.
Snorting Adderall can also cause other severe problems. These include:
- Damage to the nasal passages, nasal septum, and sinuses
- Severe weight loss
- New or worsening mental health issues
- Heart attack
- Confusion
- Psychosis
- Stroke
- Seizures
- Fever
- High blood pressure
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Restlessness
People who abuse Adderall may also develop signs of addiction, including:
- Tolerance (needing to use more to get the desired effects)
- Cravings
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug
People who develop Adderall addiction typically require intensive treatment and continuing support to quit using it. It is critical to be aware of the risk of abuse and addiction and seek treatment as soon as you recognize a problem.
Recognizing and Treating Adderall Abuse
Adderall abuse can quickly lead to physical dependence and addiction. It is important to know the signs of Adderall abuse and seek treatment as soon as you recognize it.
Some signs of Adderall abuse include:
- Taking Adderall differently than prescribed
- Using Adderall recreationally (without a prescription)
- Snorting Adderall or taking it differently than prescribed in another way
- “Doctor shopping” (having more than one prescription for Adderall from multiple doctors)
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it
- Having new or worsening anxiety, panic, or other mental health symptoms
- Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, or hobbies
- Spending a lot of time trying to get and use Adderall
- Doing illegal or dishonest things to get more Adderall
- Needing to use higher doses to get the desired effects
People who develop physical dependence on Adderall typically cannot simply choose to stop taking it. They may require intensive treatment, starting with a detox program, to quit.
Adderall addiction treatment programs may include:
- Medically-supported detox programs (medications, supervision, medical and mental health treatment)
- Behavioral therapies
- Relapse prevention education
- Holistic therapies, like nutrition support, exercise, mindfulness, etc.
- Individual, group, and family counseling
- Coping skills
- Aftercare planning and support
Comprehensive, evidence-based treatment can help people safely stop abusing Adderall and learn how to prevent relapse. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of abuse or addiction.
Find Treatment Now
If you or a loved one abuse Adderall or other substances, you can find comprehensive addiction treatment options at Archstone Recovery. Reach out to our intake team to learn about our treatment center’s rehab and recovery programs. Or, contact us to verify your insurance and schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Neurocognitive, Autonomic, and Mood Effects of Adderall: A Pilot Study of Healthy College Students
- Oxford Academic: Efficacy of Adderall and methylphenidate in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a drug–placebo and drug–drug response curve analysis of a naturalistic study
- NIH: Comparison of the behavioral and cardiovascular effects of intranasal and oral d-amphetamine in healthy human subjects
