ADHD Prescription Drugs Addiction: Insights and Rehabilitation

ADHD is  Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. If your child cannot pay attention, if they are restless, attention-seeking, and highly impulsive to the point of being dysfunctional, they could have ADHD. 

ADHD is among the most common mental conditions in children. Around 6 million children aged 3 to 17 years are diagnosed with the disorder (CDC). However, with medication and therapy, the condition can be controlled. 

Some of the most common drugs prescribed for ADHD include Ritalin, Adderall, Metadate, Vyvanse, Dexedrine, Concerta, and  Focalin. These can have symptoms of ADHD like aggressiveness under check. However, ADHD medication for youngsters and adults is increasingly associated with a high risk of abuse and addiction.

Statistics of ADHD medication addiction: the Doctor’s Dilemma

While ADHD medications are beneficial, it is increasingly being misused resulting in a Doctor’s dilemma. Around 1 in 4 middle to high schoolers with the disorder are reportedly misusing ADHD prescription drugs.  Misuse means that they could be using the drug without the doctor’s prescription or in a manner that is not recommended by the doctor such as with alcohol.    

Causes and risk factors: Is ADHD medication the answer for teen angst?

To understand why teens misuse the drug and the risk factors involved, we must get into the shoes of adolescents with ADHD. The teens are difficult years! 

Youngsters with ADHD are under pressure to perform, especially in households that place a high value on academic performance. Ritalin or Adderall seems the answer, especially when these can be easily obtained. 

People who abuse ADHD medications may take them in higher doses than prescribed or take them without a prescription. Some people may crush and snort the pills to get a quick and intense high. Others may mix the medication with alcohol or other drugs.

However, medications do not come without side effects, while these might increase stamina or memory for the short term, the long-term risks are high. It results in increased tolerance, dependency, and addiction. 

It is also seen that children or young adults in broken families, or with substance abuse problems are at higher risk for ADHD prescription drug abuse.     

Signs and symptoms of ADHD medication addiction: It begins with the cravings

• Addiction starts with constant cravings. A person who is addicted to ADHD medication will find their life preoccupied with thoughts about how to get the drug.
• They will steal, hide money, and engage in other immoral activities to get the drug. They will find it difficult to focus on their job or studies without the drug. 
• Also, they could become misfits due to their peculiar behavior. For example, they could develop tics find it hard to stay still or listen to what others say 
• Physically, their appearance could be altered and they could struggle with blood pressure, Diarrhea, Headache, Sleep issues, Anxiety, Eating disorders, and Anger issues.

Effect of ADHD prescription addiction: Physical and psychological

The impact of ADHD prescription drug abuse is varied. The symptoms are both physical and psychological. ADHD prescription drugs for adults result in cardiovascular problems like increased heart rate or blood pressure, Gastrointestinal issues such as IBS and reduced appetite, Nervous system problems and tics, and Sleep problems. Psychologically, the addiction results in Paranoia and hallucinations and increases the risks of neuropsychiatric complications. 

Comorbid conditions with ADHD drugs for adults 

ADHD medication must be used cautiously. However, the nature of the disorder is such that the risks of overuse and addiction are high. People with ADHD could live with other pre-existing conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, and even exhibit symptoms of aggression and often have a high risk of suicide. Because of these pre-existing conditions, the chances of addiction are higher. 

Another risk associated with ADHD is that medications for ADHD are associated with a worsening of symptoms. For example, certain stimulants can induce aggression, anxiety, and hostility. Further, if there is a family history of mental health disorders, the likelihood of substance abuse and addiction is higher.  

Hence, if there is any such indication of a co-existing disorder or family history of mental health conditions within the family, it makes sense that they are in touch with their doctor and follow the doctor’s advice when it comes to taking stimulants. 

Addiction and overdosing with ADHD drugs: know the signs and side effects!  

Some studies suggest that stimulant medications can have an impact on the personality and make the patient more aggressive or depressive, it can also heighten the risks of anxiety attacks. All of these lead to a vicious cycle where the young adult is prompted to take the medication at a higher dose as compared to what is acceptable to medical standards. As a result, the chances of addiction are increased. Also, in case there is a family history of psychological problems, the risks of ADHD addiction are again increased.     

Withdrawal symptoms: Rebound is common if you do it alone  

Withdrawal from ADHD medication causes the rebound of ADHD symptoms, sloth and laziness, appetite changes, and extreme irritability. If you or someone you know experiences the symptoms mentioned earlier, talk to an expert. Each individual’s experience with withdrawal might be unique. Therefore a customized approach is necessary to ensure a smooth process.

Recovery

While medications are indeed a key factor in ADHD treatment, ADHD medication addiction is a rising concern. Hence, use these under the guided counsel of a doctor. Else what could be a solution soon becomes a problem.

Time could be running out. Whether it is you or someone or a close family member,  reach out to thereahabsupport.com at the earliest or call us at 949.325.7994