Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms and How to Manage Them
Medically reviewed by Jenny A. Dhingra, MD
Adderall withdrawal occurs when a person experiences a “crash” as the effects of the drug, most commonly used to treat ADHD traits and symptoms, wear off. The physical and mental symptoms (including fatigue and depression) can be subtle or severe, though not everyone will experience Adderall withdrawal.
Adderall is a prescription-only stimulant, derived from mixed amphetamine salts, that helps to increase alertness and attention. It works by increasing levels of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. It can also be used to help treat narcolepsy, a sleep disorder. As with other stimulants, Adderall can be misused.
This article explains Adderall withdrawal symptoms and their cause. It presents treatment options for managing Adderall addiction and withdrawal, as well as coping strategies to help you succeed.
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Young male holding prescription medication bottle sitting across from doctorSigns of Adderall Withdrawal
If you have been taking the medication for a long time and stop taking it abruptly, you will likely notice withdrawal symptoms. The same is true if you have misused or abused the medication or are addicted to it.
During Adderall withdrawal, the brain produces stress hormones, leading to a heightened stress response. This is why someone going through withdrawal might be extra sensitive to everyday stressors.
Common signs and symptoms of Adderall withdrawal are similar to those of other stimulant use disorders. They include:
Fatigue
Trouble concentrating
Inability to engage in normal activities
Agitation and irritability
Depression and sadness
Muscle and body aches
Other situations that can lead to Adderall withdrawal include medication dosage changes.
Why Can Adderall Be Addictive?
The way in which Adderall works in the context of treating ADHD is not fully known. It is thought that it blocks the reuptake of brain chemicals such as norepinephrine and dopamine, thus boosting levels of these neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain). This is what causes some of the stimulating effects of the drug that can lead to dependency, a drug tolerance to Adderall, and substance use disorder.
Related: What Is Withdrawal?
How Long Do Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms Last?
When Adderall is suddenly stopped, withdrawal symptoms typically begin within the first three days of the last use. The first sign is usually feeling tired, with other symptoms emerging across the next two weeks.
Withdrawal symptoms are typically mild to moderate in intensity, lasting about five weeks. A sense of craving for the drug, however, may last for several months.
Treatment for Adderall Withdrawal
Treatment for stimulant withdrawal usually includes medication to address symptoms and supportive care. However, if the withdrawal symptoms are due to Adderall misuse or abuse, this speaks to a larger issue that needs to be treated.
Medical Supervision
Even if you take Adderall as directed, it’s important not to stop the drug on your own. Instead, talk with your healthcare provider first if you want to stop taking it. They will come up with a plan to slowly decrease your usage to avoid or minimize any withdrawal symptoms.
In some cases, a medically supervised detox program may be considered.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking or behaving and then working to change those patterns.
Research has shown that CBT can be very effective in helping to treat alcohol or drug use disorders. While its clinical use in treating substance abuse disorders has been well-documented, its effectiveness in treating stimulant use disorder needs to be further studied.
Self-Care
During active withdrawal, you should drink at least two to three liters of water daily. Multivitamin supplements with B vitamins and vitamin C are also suggested.
You also can benefit from healthy lifestyle management, with choices that include:
Getting enough sleep
Exercise
Related: An Overview of the Link Between Mental Health and Sleep Disorders
Medication
To address symptoms like muscle aches or headaches, over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol may be taken.
While the immediate issue of withdrawal requires treatment and care, the larger issue of Adderall abuse or misuse also needs to be addressed. Some medications that may help with Adderall withdrawal include:
Sedative drugs to help you sleep, including benzodiazepines (like Valium)
Prevention
To prevent Adderall withdrawal, take only the Adderall dosage that's prescribed to you. Your healthcare provider can help you stay on track with your ADHD medication through regular check-ups and visits, education about Adderall, and open communication.
If you take Adderall but plan to stop, your healthcare provider can develop a schedule for tapering off that will gradually reduce your Adderall intake. This can help you safely get off Adderall with minimal withdrawal symptoms.
If you're not prescribed Adderall but have been taking it anyway and are stopping, avoid any access to the drug. Ask trusted friends and family members to help you navigate your withdrawal, or consider a support group to help you stay away from Adderall use.
Related: What to Know About Support Groups
Coping With Adderall Withdrawal
Steps you can take to cope with Adderall withdrawal include:
Taking a few days off from school or work so you can rest and recover
Choosing a hobby or activity that you can do when you feel the urge to use
Journaling or mindfulness practice
It's important to be intentional about your choices as you move forward. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, can help you to stay focused.
Summary
Adderall withdrawal can happen to anyone who takes the drug regularly, even if they're taking it as directed. Often, the symptoms are more noticeable for those who abuse or misuse the drug.
Withdrawal usually starts within 24 hours of the last usage, and symptoms typically last for a week or two. If you have been misusing or abusing Adderall, remember that withdrawal is the first step in recovery, and it’s important to continue with treatments such as therapy.
Read the original article on Verywell Health.
