Adderall is prescribed for those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Adderall is a combination drug made up of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. The medication is a stimulant that provides treatment for these two very different disorders; however, due to producing symptoms that bear a resemblance, it is common to make a mistake while diagnosing. Now, is OCD a mental illness? Intrusive thoughts follow OCD which leads to emotional distress for many people. Usually, OCD will attach to other mental health disorders like anxiety or depression. Interestingly enough, it is not a thought-based issue, but it stems from intense feelings toward a particular thought that contributes to acting questionably.
Adderall may benefit those living with OCD since it increases productivity, memory, and concentration. Many people who face a tic disorder, involuntary, repetitive movements, and vocalizations will find that Adderall does not worsen their tics or create a lack of control over the body. However, regarding OCD, symptoms may worsen. In some cases, a person with ADHD who begins taking Adderall for an extended period may show symptoms of OCD.
Adderall Abuse Effects
Adderall abuse will cause a person to build an unreasonable tolerance. Adderall may be abused by users who don’t have a prescription for the medication since it contains amphetamine, a potent stimulant that can increase the chances of addiction. The symptoms from abuse can include:
- Nervousness, anxiety, and panic
- Dry mouth, nausea, and vomiting
- A sensation of excitement or being hyperactive
- Weight loss or malnutrition
- Shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Seizures
- Pounding heartbeat or fast heart rate
- Sleep difficulties
These side effects from the abuse of Adderall are commonly reported. High tolerance to the drug will mean an increased intake which will cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Also, behavioral signs of Adderall abuse may be defined around the way a person pays for this drug. A person should always acquire a prescription, but Adderall is often purchased “on the street.”
Adderall for OCD in Women
The global rates for OCD are slightly higher in women than men – around 50% more women than men are affected by this disorder. As for the consumption of Adderall, the Food and Drug Administration’s found a 20-30% increase of processed amphetamine in women; however, when adjusted for weight, this difference disappeared between the genders.
Estrogen plays a significant role in determining the efficacy of Adderall when it is taken by women, especially when the levels of estrogen escalate. Women may even feel high, or their perception or sensory perception is altered. Adderall side effects in women are unique due to the variety of ways women process the drug. Side effects can include skyrocketing anxiety, change in bowel movements, and decreased libido.
How Many People Have OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder can affect both genders at any age. About 30 percent of people experience OCD symptoms in childhood. There are numerous forms of OCD, such as Contamination OCD and Relationship OCD. According to OCD demographics and statistics, one out of every 40 adults in the United States and one out of every 100 children are found with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.1
At what age should you stop taking Adderall? Although anyone under the age of five should not take the medication, controlling the intake of the drug depends on multiple factors. If a person is experiencing increased OCD symptoms or side effects, it is best to halt taking Adderall. A severe lack of appetite or sleep is another good reason to quit taking the medication.
Recovery for Adderall Abuse
Suppose you or someone you love is showing signs of misusing Adderall for OCD or increased OCD symptoms from taking Adderall. In that case, our Northeast recovery center is ready to provide you with proper education and guidance to ensure a successful recovery. There are many unique programs available for patients to benefit from and recover, including treatment for adderall abuse.
Our Pennsylvania inpatient program offers numerous methods of care regarding substance abuse. We usually start our patients off with medical detox to safely get through withdrawal symptoms. Our highly trained staff and specialists are here to help!
Contact Clearbrook Pennsylvania today at 570-536-9621 to learn more about our services.
Sources
Related Reading:
