Adderall is a substance classified as a stimulant and because of its ability to increase focus and attention, it is prone to abuse especially by college students. Primarily used as a medication for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Adderall is also prescribed to treat narcolepsy, a condition that makes one uncommonly sleep in most parts of the day.
Because of its addictive potential, anyone who uses Adderall is vulnerable to experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Apparently, there are no specific medications approved to assist withdrawal treatment although there are some prescriptions given to alleviate the discomfort or pain experienced by a person who ceases to take Adderall.
Treatment for Adderall Withdrawal
Withdrawal symptoms from Adderall can be safely managed at home, however; this does not usually apply to all individuals. It is always safe to taper off one’s dosage with the supervision of a medical expert since nobody can really predict the severity of the symptoms that a person is likely to experience later on.
Withdrawal symptoms kick in within two days after the last dose and this initial phase usually marks the peak of the discomfort. The length of the discomfort typically depends on the degree of physical dependence one has for the drug. Those who have been into Adderall addiction are highly recommended for inpatient treatment.
When suicidal ideation is involved in the case, this is a red flag that conditions can be life-threatening and there is a need to seek medical help. Suicidal thoughts are usually a manifestation of depression. The following are the medications that can be given to help individuals cope with the painful conditions brought by Adderall withdrawal.
Modafinil
Modafinil is typically used to treat sleep disorders, however; research has found a significant potential of the substance to relieve symptoms of withdrawal, prevent occasions of relapse, and increase motivation to focus on the treatment plan. It is considered to be a safe medication because it is less addictive and less likely to induce the risk of overdose.
Modafinil is an ideal drug for withdrawal because it helps the body cope with the low levels of dopamine caused by the absence of Adderall. This function helps reduce cravings for the substance and alleviates withdrawal discomfort. Clinicians also recommend psychological interventions to work in combination with the drug to achieve imminent recovery.
Benzodiazepine
When it comes to treatment for anxiety-related disorders, Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed. Once a person stops using Adderall, occasions of anxiety can manifest and this is when benzodiazepines can come in handy. Although physicians may include this on one’s treatment plan, a prescription must be greatly considered with caution.
Experts explain that combining stimulants such as Adderall and depressants such as Benzodiazepine can be dangerous since both drugs affect the function of the heart. While stimulants increase the heart rate, benzos work in contrast. The combination may confuse which function the heart must follow and result in heart failure.
However, considering that during withdrawal, the level of Adderall in the body has been reduced, the possibility of a dangerous interaction with Benzodiazepine could be less likely. To be safe, it is best to discuss medical matters seriously with one’s physician including underlying physical and mental health conditions so that a proper prescription can be given.
Antidepressant
During withdrawal to Adderall, the brain fails to produce enough levels of dopamine which makes one highly susceptible to experiencing mood disorders like depression. This condition needs to be constantly watched out for because this can make a person become vulnerable to suicidal thoughts, and worst, suicidal attempts. Antidepressants work to prevent this case.
Mirtazapine is an antidepressant that has shown significant impact not only in treating depression but also in alleviating withdrawal symptoms from Adderall. However, further research is necessary to support its effectiveness since, in a set of two clinical studies, the drug has worked with one group but has given no improvement in the other group.
This was the case for the treatment of withdrawal symptoms. However, when it comes to treatment for depression, Mirtazapine can be continuously prescribed especially when patients show positive outcomes. This can also be given safely for long-term use as it poses no harmful threats to its users.
Sleeping aids
Withdrawal symptoms from Adderall may include fatigue and insomnia, conditions which definitely deprive the body of adequate rest. With the help of sleeping aids, the body is induced to feel sleepy and relaxed, leading one to a well-rested state. Sleeping aids are recommended to be taken before bedtime to avoid interference with daily activities.
Benadryl is an antihistamine usually prescribed for allergies and the common cold. It also works for nausea and vomiting. The drowsy version of the drug helps treat people who suffer from insomnia during withdrawal to Adderall. On top of that, it can also decrease the occasion of agitation which is also a common withdrawal symptom.
Trazodone, an antidepressant, is also used as a sleeping aid during withdrawal to Adderall. While it typically treats mood disorders, Trazodone induces sedation to its users, helping them cope with fatigue and insomnia. Although the drug is known to be safe from harmful threats, it is not recommended to people with existing heart problems.
Analgesics
Analgesics are popularly known as painkillers and can be given over-the-counter. They are safe, effective, and less costly, and can be perfectly prescribed when individuals suffer from headaches and muscle pains caused by withdrawal to Adderall. Common analgesic classifications available are Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, and Naproxen.
Some individuals are also likely to experience stomach aches or cramps during withdrawal. This can also be treated with any OTC Analgesics. Tylenol, Advil, and Excedrin are common options you can get from the pharmacy. It is best to contact one’s physician immediately in case the pain is not relieved by these drugs.
Overall, experts would constantly emphasize that a medically-assisted withdrawal treatment can work effectively in conjunction with psychological interventions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the top option especially when excessive use of Adderall is involved in the case.