THE STUDY PILL a.k.a “SPEED”
Casey was a Sophomore at Brown University who had difficulties completing a five-page paper due the next afternoon until she got introduced to Adderall by a friend. Initially, she found that Adderall helped to improve her focus and concentration, leading her to do well in her studies. However, as time went on, she began to rely on Adderall to get through the day and found that they needed increasingly larger doses to achieve the same effects.
As her Adderall use increased, she began to experience negative side effects, such as insomnia, loss of appetite, mood swings, and panic attacks that landed her in the hospital. Despite these negative consequences, she continued to use Adderall, unable to stop on her own. Eventually, she realized that she had developed an addiction to the medication and sought help from a healthcare professional.
According to data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the nonmedical use of prescription stimulants like Adderall has increased in recent years.
In 2020, SAMHSA reported that approximately 6.4% of young adults aged 18-25 had used prescription stimulants nonmedically in the past year. This is an increase from 5.4% in 2018 and 4.8% in 2016.
Data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) also shows that the nonmedical use of prescription stimulants like Adderall is more common among college students. In 2020, NSDUH reported that 6.3% of full-time college students aged 18-22 had used prescription stimulants nonmedically in the past year, compared to 2.7% of their non-college peers.
Adderall (an amphetamine, stimulant) is a prescription medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It is a stimulant that works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that are responsible for regulating attention and behavior.
Adderall is often prescribed to individuals who struggle with impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity, as it can help to improve their focus and concentration. It is also commonly used off-label as a cognitive enhancer by college students and professionals seeking to improve their performance and productivity.
While Adderall can be effective in treating the symptoms of ADHD and narcolepsy, it is important to note that it is not a magic pill and does not work for everyone. In fact, some people may experience negative side effects from taking Adderall, such as insomnia, loss of appetite, and increased blood pressure.
Another story involves an individual who began taking Adderall recreationally, without a prescription. This individual found that Adderall helped to improve their productivity and felt a sense of euphoria when taking the medication. However, as their Adderall use increased, they began to experience negative side effects, such as paranoia and psychosis. Despite these consequences, the individual continued to use Adderall, unable to stop on their own. Eventually, they sought help from a healthcare professional and were able to overcome their addiction with the help of therapy and support.
These stories highlight the potential risks of Adderall misuse and the importance of using caution when taking this medication.
The recent shortage of Adderall at community pharmacies has led some to resort to the dangerous habit of buying these pills online, some of which are fake or laced with dangerous and deadly substances like fentanyl.
Last year, Ohio State officials announced the death of a student and hospitalization of 2 others after consuming fake Adderall pills laced with fentanyl.
Last September 2022, the Feds seized a record amount of methamphetamine-laced fake Adderall pills in Rhode Island.
Fake pills are easy to purchase, widely available, and often contain fentanyl or methamphetamine, and can be deadly.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Adderall addiction, it is important to seek help from a healthcare professional as soon as possible. With the right treatment and support, it is possible to overcome an Adderall addiction and regain control of your life.