Adderall, an amphetamine-based medication, is prescribed for people suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Adderall is a combination of dextroamphetamines and amphetamines that has been proven to be effective in ADHD symptoms such as impulsivity, poor concentration, and focus. It is an amphetamine-based drug so it can be misused and addictive. Students often take stimulants to improve their school performance. But how does this affect the rest of their bodies and health? Continue reading to learn how Adderall can harm your heart.
Effect of Adderall on the Heart
Adderall is a stimulant that increases nerve activity in the central nervous systems, especially by interfacing with neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. Adderall can be beneficial for ADHD patients who are able to focus and have more energy.
This interaction can have side effects. Natural hormone, norepinephrine, acts as a neurotransmitter and stress hormone. When the brain senses that there is a dangerous or stressful situation, it releases norepinephrine into the bloodstream.
Adderall can interact with this chemical and cause an increase in energy and a fight or flight response. It can also trigger physical symptoms such as rapid breathing, high blood pressure, and elevated heart rate. These effects are rare or not noticeable in those who use Adderall according to their prescription. However, they can occur in people who misuse the drug or who take higher doses of it than necessary.
High doses of Adderall can cause a spike in heart rate and blood pressure, which can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or heart failure. People with existing heart conditions are at greater risk from cardiovascular disease and death when stimulants are used.
Even though the effects are short-term, Adderall can have a significant impact on your cardiovascular health.
- Chest pain
- Rapid breathing
- Panic or anxiety
- Rapid or irregular heart beat
- An increase in blood pressure
An Adderall overdose could also be indicated by a racing heart, panic attacks, or other cardiovascular problems. High doses of Adderall can cause elevated body temperatures and other internal organ damage. Internal damage can also be caused by high blood pressure, which makes the heart work harder.
People who take Adderall for ADHD are unlikely to develop heart disease. People who have used Adderall or other stimulants since childhood do not have an increased chance of developing heart disease. People who do not have a prescription for Adderall are at an increased risk.
Adderall Abuse & Cardiovascular Risk
Adderall is illegally used by people who do not have a prescription. People abuse stimulants such as Adderall to improve their school performance or to lose weight. They also use it to get an energetic, euphoric high. To achieve these goals, Adderall users often take greater amounts of the drug than is prescribed. This increases their chance of developing adverse reactions such as cardiovascular problems.
Adderall can increase your risk of heart disease, death, and heart attack by taking large amounts. It can also be addictive. Taking Adderall for prolonged periods of time can lead to dependence and addiction. This link between Adderall use and heart disease is most relevant to people who do not have ADHD.
Off-label Adderall use can also pose a risk of Adderall-induced heart disease. Some people use Adderall to treat ADHD. Others take it for other reasons, such as:
- Narcolepsy
- Weight Management
- Depression can cause fatigue
- The symptoms of traumatic brain injuries
- Hypersomnolence due to obstructive sleeping apnea
Although a doctor may prescribe stimulants in moderate amounts to treat these conditions; rapid weight loss and OSA have been linked to cardiovascular disease. Pre-existing conditions in the cardiovascular or circulatory system can make stimulants more dangerous. This increases your risk of heart attack, stroke, blood clots and heart failure.
There is currently no ADHD medication available for adults with heart disease. Studies have shown a weak link between Adderall use and heart disease, but these studies didn’t take into account recreational Adderall use. People who have ADHD and are prescribed Adderall can be at risk for heart disease. However, this is not true for recreational or off-label users.
Stimulant Addiction Assistance
Adderall can damage your heart and cause addiction. It is crucial to have the right resources, as stimulant abuse is becoming more common in the U.S., particularly among college students and young professionals.
This is why our Northeast addictions center can offer treatment for both prescription and illicit drug addiction. All In Solutions uses evidence-based methods to treat all types of substance abuse disorders.
We help patients recover from the effects of drugs and alcohol by starting with medically monitored detox. We offer personalized treatment to each client and family services to assist with reconciliation between family members and partners.
Our New Jersey inpatient drug rehabilitation can help you, no matter how deep you are into addiction. Call All In Solutions Treatment Center at 855-762-3796 for more information about our residential mental healthcare and substance abuse services.
All In Solutions Counseling Center is a substance abuse treatment network. We offer inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment programs that are uniquely designed to meet each client’s needs. Our specialized programs include:
- Christian recovery
- MAT for opiate addiction
- Art therapy addiction recovery
- Men’s rehab
- Women’s rehab
Our locations include:
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https://www.allinsolutions.com/10-tips-to-stay-sober-this-holiday-season/
