Does Adderall Speed Up Metabolism?
From its breathtaking landscapes and charming architecture to its rich agricultural scene and renowned landmarks, New Hampshire is a cultural gem of the USA and a significant economic hub. However, the Granite State faces a serious drug problem that threatens to escalate into an uncontrollable epidemic.
The data collected only further proves the issue as reports show the rate of overdose deaths is increasing with no end in sight. The opioid crisis causes deaths to jump by 8.2% in 2022 compared to the previous year.
The state’s substance use nightmare involves more than opioids (such as heroin). Among the most commonly abused drugs are also cocaine, marijuana, ecstasy, and prescription drugs, which include hydrocodone, methadone, oxycodone, and this article’s focus – Adderall.
Adderall is a stimulant medication used to treat ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and chronic sleep disorder. According to The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, the number of young adults abusing Adderall increased by 67% from 2006 to 2011.
Research also found that the highest rates of Adderall abuse are present within individuals aged 18 to 25. Additionally, SAMHSA reported that in 2021 more than 770,000 individuals aged 12 and older started misusing Adderall.
The reasons for abusing Adderall vary; some take it to improve focus, some want to enhance their performance, and others like the sense of pleasure and satisfaction. However, some people use Adderall for weight loss – a non-prescribed purpose that deems the practice substance abuse.
So does adderall speed up metabolism? Is it safe to use? Does it cause rebound weight gain? We answer these questions and more in the following guide.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is one of the most well-known prescription medications belonging to a class of drugs known as stimulants. Its official use that’s been approved by the FDA (food and drug administration) is to ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and chronic sleep disorder (narcolepsy).
This prescription stimulant medication is widely known for its potent ability to increase concentration and alertness. It also helps individuals pay attention for longer periods and suppress impulsive behavior.
Adderall (also available as Adderall XR or extended release) is the brand name of the stimulant medication, whereas the active chemical constituent is a mixture of amphetamine salts. Taking Adderall tablets elicits the following effects:
- Heightened alertness
- Enhanced focus and concentration
- Increased energy levels
- Reduced fidgeting and restlessness
- Prolonged attention span
- Elevated heart rate
- Higher blood pressure
How Does Adderall Work?
To understand the mechanism of action of Adderall, you should first be familiar with the causes of ADHD symptoms. Generally, the most common reason behind the characteristic signs of ADHD (lack of focus, impulsiveness, and erratic movements) is low dopamine levels in the CNS (central nervous system).
Adderall, thanks to the amphetamine salts in the drug, works by increasing the amount of dopamine present in the CNS. Once dopamine levels rise and reach normal values, the symptoms of hyperactivity and lowered concentration are resolved.
That said, you should note that Adderall doesn’t only boost dopamine levels. It also raises the levels of norepinephrine and serotonin.
This is why, in addition to helping patients stay focused for longer intervals and enhancing their performance, Adderral also produces favorable sensations of satisfaction, pleasure, and upbeatness.
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Does Adderall Affect Metabolism?
Yes, Adderall can alter the metabolism rate of your body. However, this is an indirect impact through the drug’s stimulant effects.
As we explained above, Adderall stimulates the release of dopamine and norepinephrine in the CNS. These hormones trigger physical responses such as elevated heart rate and increased energy production, which may speed up the body’s metabolism.
While the stimulant properties of Adderall may cause the body to burn calories at a faster rate than normal, the resulting increase in metabolic rate is typically not significant enough to produce substantial weight loss.
What’s more, the change in metabolism is likely to vary from one patient to another, so what works for someone you know may not work for you. Not to mention, some people don’t experience any improvement in metabolism when taking Adderall.
Is Weight Loss a Side Effect of Adderall?
Yes, weight loss can possibly be a side effect to taking Adderall. Taking this stimulant medication can suppress appetite, leading to a reduction in caloric intake which when coupled with the increased energy levels can result in weight loss.
The exact mechanism by which Adderall decreases appetite is not clear yet, but we do know that it’s related to the changes in the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
These chemicals can curb feelings of hunger as part of the body’s responses when in need of increasing focus and boosting performance.
Consequently, Adderall can cause unintentional weight loss, however this isn’t an FDA-approved use of the drug. There may be some cases that would benefit from this side effect, such as ADHD patients suffering from obesity, but it depends on their doctor’s recommendation.
Does Adderall Have Other Side Effects?
Besides decreased appetite and weight loss, Adderall can seriously affect physical and mental health if you misuse it. These adverse effects include:
- Fast heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Mood swings
- Headaches
- Mood swings
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Disrupted sleep patterns
Adderall Addiction
Besides the common side effects listed above, Adderall has a high risk of abuse that can easily develop into addiction.
When people start taking Adderall to experience its mind-alerting and/or delighting effects –and not to treat one of its indicated conditions– it marks the beginning of their substance abuse disorder.
The amphetamine salts in Adderall produce effects similar to those of methamphetamine (commonly known as meth). Because Adderall is available as a prescription drug, it’s more accessible than meth.
As such, an at-risk person can easily get their hands on the drug and start taking it for whatever off-label purpose.
Once the body is conditioned to the presence of Adderall in its systems, especially without medical supervision, it doesn’t take long before the individual becomes mentally and physically dependent on the drug.
With continued abuse, the body loses its ability to produce the neurotransmitters on its own without Adderall triggering their release. The acquired need to receive such signals from an external source becomes too overwhelming and the body becomes reliant on the drug.
Beyond that point, unpleasant and often painful withdrawal symptoms are likely to accompany stopping the use of Adderall. Consequently, the patient becomes wary of quitting and remains addicted.
Does Adderall Cause Eating Disorders?
Abusing Adderall for weight loss (or even for other reasons) can lead to developing eating disorders. Similarly, people at risk of developing an eating disorder are more likely to abuse this ADHD medication to lose weight.
Eating disorders that are commonly associated with Adderall include anorexia and binge eating. Those struggling with anorexia abuse Adderall to further lower their caloric intake, while those suffering from binge eating may take adderall to suppress their appetite.
If you’re suspecting that you’re dealing with an eating disorder fueled by Adderall, watch out for signs such as:
- Starvation
- Extremely strict diets
- Binging episodes when not taking Adderall
- Tying meal schedules to Adderall doses
- Feeling the need to take Adderall to start the day
Adderall Addiction Treatment Options
Overcoming adderall addiction is achievable thanks to the various programs and therapies available nowadays. The following are the most common and effective treatment options used in Adderall use disorder:
Medical Detox
Treatment of Adderall addiction starts with medical detoxification or detox.
This process aims to rid the body of the drug and its toxic compounds by gradually decreasing the amount that the patient takes until they stop using it completely and the body is clean of its traces.
As the healthcare professional lowers the dose of Adderall, withdrawal symptoms will start to manifest.
This is why medications such as Modafinil, Bupropion, and Dextroamphetamine are administered during detox; they help alleviate anxiety, depression, restlessness, insomnia, and other withdrawal symptoms.
Behavioral Therapy
This is an integral component of Adderall addiction treatment. It plays a key role in maintaining recovery and preventing relapse.
Types of behavioral therapy, including
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Motivational Interviewing
- Contingency Management
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Support Groups
Group therapy, family therapy, and 12-step programs are examples of support groups. Attending such sessions ensures adherence to recovery during and after rehab and provides patients with a more solid support system.
Conclusion: Knowing When to Seek Help
Overcoming Adderall addiction can be a challenging journey, but it’s not impossible. The first step is to get professional help, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you or your loved one is struggling with Adderall drug abuse.
At Live Free Recovery Services, we’ll formulate a personalized treatment plan using evidence-based techniques that address your specific needs and goals to ensure long-lasting recovery and avoid relapse.
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Published on: 2024-07-10
Updated on: 2024-12-10
Category: Blog