Adderall is a prescription drug that’s used to treat ADHD. But some people abuse it to boost their energy, get a high, or lose weight. Misusing it for a long time can lead to addiction and serious health problems. It’s important to know the warning signs of Adderall abuse. If you or someone you care about is abusing this stimulant, there are several ways to seek help.

The earliest warning sign of an Adderall problem is a lack of control over when and how the drug is used. A person who is struggling with this issue will use it even when they are sick, and may try to sneak more of the medication into their system by crushing or liquefying it. They may also steal pills from their family members’ medicine cabinets or purchase them on the street. Eventually, their addiction will affect all areas of their life.

Addiction to Adderall causes a change in how the brain sorts and prioritizes tasks. It can make it very difficult to function without the drug. This is why people who have this problem often feel tired or mentally foggy. They may not be able to focus on their work or school assignments without it. They might also have trouble sleeping or experience depression.

Most people who misuse Adderall are young adults, but anyone can become addicted to it. This is because the drug can cause hyper-stimulation in the brain and nervous system, which makes some people feel powerful and confident. Adderall can also suppress the appetite, which is why it’s popular among those who want to lose weight.

College students are prone to using Adderall as a party drug, because it’s inexpensive and easily accessible. But once they leave college and enter the workforce, they can be at risk of abusing it again. They may be under a lot of pressure at work or in their education, and can begin to rely on Adderall to get them through the day.

One of the most dangerous effects of Adderall abuse is its impact on the heart and blood vessels. When a person uses the drug in large doses or for a long period of time, it can cause a heart attack or stroke. It can also damage the liver and cause high blood pressure.

In addition to affecting the heart and blood vessels, Adderall can be hard on the brain and cause long-term memory loss. This is because the drug increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, which create a feeling of reward. But when you use the drug for a long time, your body develops a tolerance to these chemicals. You need more of the drug to get the same effect, which can lead to dependence or addiction.

If you suspect that a friend or loved one is abusing Adderall, talk to them about it while they are calm and sober. You can use this opportunity to share about the benefits of different treatment methods. These include yoga, meditation (like the Headspace app), a balanced diet, plenty of sleep and stress reduction techniques.