Adderall, a commonly misused stimulant medication due to its focus and energy-boosting properties, is frequently prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy. Whether taken as instructed or used recreationally, Adderall can result in addiction, and stopping its use often results in withdrawal symptoms.
The effort can be challenging, as they may not be able to function normally because of various physical and mental symptoms. Understanding Adderall withdrawal signs, the withdrawal schedule, and the safe methods for coping with the process dramatically strengthens the potential to protect the body from harm.
What Is Adderall, and How Does It Affect the Body?
Adderall contains two stimulant medications, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, both of which affect the nervous system. The drug increases dopamine and norepinephrine, essential for a person’s focus, drive, and responsiveness.
For a person with ADHD, Adderall helps to alleviate impulsive behavior and assists in the management of focus. However, in patients who do not have ADHD, the medication induces feelings of elation, which may result in substance dependency.
How Adderall Affects Dopamine Production
Eventually, the consumption of Adderall causes the brain to decrease its secretion of dopamine. Therefore, stopping the intake of Adderall will result in exceptionally low levels of dopamine, which causes withdrawal symptoms from the amphetamines.
The drastic imbalance of chemicals in the brain is what causes withdrawal symptoms. The difficulty experienced through cessation results in profound lethargy, overwhelming sadness, and mental confusion.
Why Does Adderall Withdrawal Happen?
The primary reason for withdrawal is the impact that Adderall has on how a person’s brain controls dopamine. Gradually, the brain begins to use the drug to maintain a certain level, which, in this case, “normal” is low. The cessation of Adderall intake causes a steep drop in dopamine, resulting in tiredness, emotional swings, and diminished cognitive function.
Several things affect the level of withdrawal symptoms one might face. Symptoms tend to be more severe with greater doses and longer duration of use. Those who stop suddenly are also more negative than those who taper down. An individual’s withdrawal pattern is also dependent on their family’s health history, seeing that some people metabolize Adderall differently.
Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms and What to Expect
The mind and body can be impacted during the Adderall withdrawal process in several ways, and it can take up to weeks to recover fully. Users tend to lose significant amounts of energy and have difficulties focusing, driving motivation even lower.
Throughout the withdrawal phase, it is very typical to experience mood changes and even depression due to the body attempting to balance the levels of neurotransmitters within the body.
Some people experience intense withdrawal, which makes it very easy to rely on Adderall. These withdrawal symptoms are often accompanied by increased appetite, increased aggression, and altered sleeping habits.
What Happens During an Adderall Crash?
An Adderall crash sets in when the effects of the medication wear off, leading to a drastic reduction in energy and focus. An Adderall crash may occur following a missed, reduced, or discontinued dose. The breakdown phase of the crash tends to be difficult, as symptoms show up fast and with a greater intensity.
Some common symptoms of an Adderall crash may include lethargy, changes in mood, difficulty focusing, muscle aches, and irritability. Depending on the provided patient care, others might be diagnosed with nausea and even depressive symptoms. Adderall crashes, depending on the amount of medication used and the individual’s metabolism, can last from a few hours to several days.
Adderall Withdrawal Timeline: How Long Does It Last?
It’s unique for everyone, though it is likely that the majority follow a similar pattern. Fatigue, irritability, and symptoms of Adderall crash usually begin within the first 24 to 48 hours after withdrawal.
From day three to seven, symptoms are at their peak and are strongly exacerbated by depression, anxiety, and cognitive dullness. It is common, as well, to have altered sleep patterns alongside an increased appetite during this phase.
Long-Term Effects of Adderall Withdrawal
You will probably still feel a lack of motivation and energy even after a week, and the initial symptoms are alleviated. Most people have to deal with incredibly overpowering cravings for an extended period, alongside some volatile emotions that may last for several weeks.
In some cases, these symptoms can last for up to three months, which is referred to as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). The severity of the symptoms will vary based on how long the individual was reliant on Adderall, the amount they dosed themselves with, and the level of dependency they have formed.
How Long Does Adderall Stay in Your System?
Although Adderall might be used as a stimulant, it persists within the body. It can be found in blood for 46 hours, in urine for 72 hours, and in saliva for 50 hours. Detection in hair follicles lasts for approximately 3 months. There are certain features like metabolic rate, hydration, and liver activity that can also help detect the availability of this drug.
How Long Does Adderall Last for Someone Without ADHD?
As for people who do not have ADHD, Adderall functions to energize and enhance effects in a lasting manner. Without regulating dopamine, which is released to the body, heightened concentration, motivation, and energy can be experienced by anyone who does not have ADHD.
The immediate release lasts four to six hours, while the extended-release lasts eight to twelve hours. Both crashes are often more detrimental and lasting compared to the negative fatigue and irritability associated with a drug “crash.”
Managing Adderall Withdrawal Safely
About coping with withdrawal, the medication should be tapered rather than stopped abruptly, as the cold turkey method is the worst option. This permits the brain to adjust to reduced dopamine levels over time, minimizing symptom intensity. While most individuals choose to taper their medication on their own, there is a segment that prefers to seek help through medically assisted detoxification.
Medical Detox Vs. At-Home Tapering
In a medically supervised detox, an individual has the space to withdraw while trained professionals help them manage withdrawal symptoms. This option is beneficial for patients with severe Adderall dependence.
With the use of some professionally provided OTC medications, healing and alleviation of withdrawal symptoms can be achieved expeditiously, so minimizing the risk of relapse.
At-home tapering is an alternative method for detoxing without autonomous medical guidance. This method entails gradually decreasing the Adderall dosage over weeks. While this approach may be more effective, it also necessitates significant discipline, advice from a medical professional, and safety reasons.
Does Adderall Cause Acne and Other Physical Effects?
Many individuals inquire, “Can taking Adderall result in acne breaking out?” For some people, Adderall can cause acne flare-ups, but it’s not the primary factor responsible. It usually enhances stress hormones such as cortisol, which can directly result in acne breakouts.
Adderall has also been recognized for causing dehydration, which leads to dry skin that is more prone to irritation and acne. Changes in oil secretion also contribute to worsening acne in some individuals. Other reduction somatic effects are dry mouth, less hair, and different body weight while withdrawing.
Get Help for Adderall Dependence at Silicon Valley Recovery
With professional assistance, Adderall’s withdrawal becomes manageable, even though it is pretty challenging. Adderall detox treatment requires a specific approach, which is provided at Silicon Valley Recovery. Our employees empower every client to gain control of their life through medical detox, therapy, and other supportive measures.
Adderall withdrawal can be challenging for not only you but your loved one as well. Get in touch with Silicon Valley Recovery immediately. Our practitioners will prepare you for a recovery process free of risks and filled with assistance.
FAQs
What happens to your body when you stop Adderall?
Abruptly discontinuing Adderall leads to withdrawal symptoms due to the lack of balance in the body’s dopamine level, the most prominent of which is exhaustion, diminished drive, and an inability to focus.
What are the side effects of Adderall comedown?
Irritability, anxiety, mood changes, headache, and severe fatigue are common side effects.
What are the symptoms of going out of Adderall?
Some of the symptoms are a lack of drive, profound fatigue, intense drug cravings, and cloudy thoughts.
What are the timeline symptoms of Adderall withdrawal?
The Adderall crash that follows the day’s exhaustion is the peak withdrawal phase during the first week, characterized by depressive feelings and sleep issues. The subsequent weeks are better.
What is the washout period for Adderall?
The period between the last dose of Adderall and the time the body clears it completely, estimated to be between 5–7 days, is called the washout period.
