ADHD, or Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a common and widely treated condition. But as much as modern medicine offers options to manage this mental health issue, the same drugs can trigger another problem: substance abuse.
So, are ADHD drugs addictive? We’ll answer that question in this post, together with symptoms to watch out for and where you can get help if you or a loved one is dealing with addiction to ADHD meds.
Are ADHD meds addictive?
Take note that ADHD can occur in both children and adults and so is the risk of addiction to its medication if abused.
Still, the question stands: are ADHD medications addictive? If yes, then how?
To understand this better, you should know that there are three major types of medications used to treat ADHD. Each one works differently and has varying risks of abuse. Here’s a quick look at each of them:
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most widely used and popular ADHD medications. Some of the most popular names here are Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, Vyvanse, and Jornay PM.
These medications work for about 70% of children struggling with ADHD. It works by increasing the norepinephrine and dopamine levels in the central nervous system (CNS) of the brain to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
But are stimulants addictive? Unfortunately, they are quite prone to abuse. For example, the ability to induce focus makes Adderall addictive among college students.
And how addictive is Adderall? Well, it has a high risk of abuse since it has amphetamine compounds. Worse, it’s being sold illicitly on school campuses and through other platforms.
Aside from Adderall, Ritalin addiction can also occur. The sensation it brings makes Ritalin addictive as much as Adderall is.
Is Concerta addictive? You should know that Concerta and Ritalin are basically the same drugs, with Concerta only having an extended-release.
On the other hand, Vyvanse has a different course of action in the body. It has to be metabolized by the liver first, and this extra step means it takes time to take effect and, therefore, has a lower chance of being abused or causing addiction.
Regardless of what ADHD medication caused the addiction, drug rehab is always the best solution. This way, you can escape the cycle of substance abuse and utilize your medications properly. While there are no non-addictive stimulants, proper guidance can save you from the potential risks that come with them.
Non-stimulants
Non-stimulants, on the other hand, work differently than stimulants. They don’t stimulate the CNS, making non-stimulants a better treatment for those with anxiety and a sensitivity to stimulants.
However, this doesn’t mean that non-stimulants can’t be just as addictive.
So, is ADHD medication addictive in this case? Let’s break down a few popular non-stimulants to help you understand it better.
Wellbutrin (bupropion), one of the most popular ADHD medications, is a type of anti-depressant that works by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
However, Wellbutrin is also regarded by some as “poor man’s cocaine” because it can be abused to trigger similar sensations as with consuming cocaine. And much like any ADHD meds, Wellbutrin can trigger addiction if misused or abused.
Another popular non-stimulant prescribed for ADHD is Strattera (atomoxetine hydrochloride). It’s actually the first non-stimulant that the FDA approved to treat this mental health disorder.
This drug works by regulating serotonin and norepinephrine to improve focus for a long period. Unlike Wellbutrin, this medication doesn’t target dopamine, making it less likely to get addictive among other non-stimulants.
Aside from that, non-stimulants like Viloxazine, Clonidine, and Guanfacine also run lower risks of abuse. But can you get addicted to ADHD meds in this case? There’s always a possibility, so following your prescription religiously is a must.
And, in case you or someone you know is struggling with non-stimulant abuse, it’s best to seek the help of an addiction treatment center right away.
Are ADHD pills addictive? Signs someone might be abusing them
Drug addiction and ADHD are both serious and sometimes intertwined problems. If you suspect that someone is abusing ADHD medications, you should look for the following warning signs:
- Sleep problems like insomnia
- Snorting, injecting, or smoking the pills
- Taking a higher-than-prescribed dose
- Using the medications for work or school activities
- Mixing the medications with alcohol
- Taking the medications with other drugs
- Having psychotic episodes
- Withdrawal symptoms when not taking ADHD medications
- Heightened paranoia and mood swings
- Declining performance at work or school
- Becoming reclusive and avoidant
If you or someone you know are showing these symptoms while taking ADHD medications, it might be time to see a specialist like LA Wellness Home. We have licensed medical doctors who can help you take control back of your condition and drug use.
We also offer comprehensive drug rehab if you wish to receive holistic care so you can break free from the cycle of addiction.
What to do when someone is addicted to ADHD meds
If you’ve confirmed that someone is abusing ADHD medications, there are many ways you can offer help. Here are some that our specialists recommend:
- Contact a professional. The first thing we suggest is reaching out to an inpatient rehab center so you can discuss the situation with a substance use disorder (SUD) specialist. This way, you’ll also receive guidance on how to approach and talk to the person who’s abusing ADHD medications.
- Start a discussion. The next step in getting someone with drug addiction to get help is by talking to them. It’s easier said than done, but preparation is the key. Make sure you pick the right time and place, so the other person would be comfortable opening up. Always be sincere and don’t make judgments or assumptions that could break the person’s trust in you.
- Discuss treatment options. Once you and your loved one are comfortable talking, you can start introducing the idea of enrolling in a Los Angeles rehab center. Always be optimistic and assure the person that he will be supported along the way.
- Involuntary admission, as the last resort. ADHD and addiction can go out of control without early intervention. If your loved one is already a danger to themselves or others, you can consider involuntary treatment. This requires a court hearing and ruling to ensure that it’s the best decision for the person’s welfare.
Need professional help for ADHD medication addiction?
Living with ADHD is already a challenge, but the risk of addiction to its medication could make it even more dreadful. If you or a loved one is struggling with misuse or abuse of ADHD meds, you can always find safety at LA Wellness Home.
At our inpatient rehab in Los Angeles, our licensed specialists will help you recover from drug misuse so you can utilize your ADHD prescriptions the right way. We’ll work closely with your doctors and family members to ensure that you’ll have your life back after the program.
Our dual diagnosis modality ensures that we target both the drug problem and mental health issue at the same time. This way, you’ll achieve long-term recovery and be more knowledgeable in using your ADHD prescriptions the right way.
If you have questions about ADHD and addiction, feel free to contact LA Wellness Home today! Our line is open 24/7 to give the help and support you need.
