How Much Adderall Is Deadly?

The drug adderall, intended for use by those with ADD or ADHD, is not something to be taken lightly. More and more the drug is being used recreationally as a means to help students study or as a weight-loss agent. This practice is not safe. Adderall is addictive. It is commonly abused and it comes with many unsafe side-effects. When the prescribed dosage is followed it is not dangerous. However, when taken without a prescription, or overused, it can be very dangerous.

Dosage

• In those with ADHD or ADD adderall is prescribed in dosages up to 40 mg, depending on several factors; the severity of the disorder, the age of the patient, other medical conditions, and other medications being taken. It is addictive, and people will build up a tolerance and then require more and more.

Increased Heart Rate

• The use of the drug comes with risks of long-term cardiovascular conditions. An increased heart rate can cause arrhythmia, also known as an erratic heart beat. If heavily abused it can also lead to cardiac arrest.

Amphetamine Psychosis

• Another dangerous potential side effect, as with all amphetamines, is amphetamine psychosis. This includes hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia. Treatment can require anti-psychotic medications or brief institutionalization.

Other Side Effects

• In severe cases, adderall causes strokes, elevated blood pressure, depression, loss of motor control, and gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea or constipartion.. Even small doses of adderall cause several unwanted effects. The drug has been to known to be the reason for headaches, insomnia, impotence and the jitters.

Withdrawal

• When one abruptly stops taking adderall, it can cause withdrawal symptoms. These include but are not limited too extreme fatigue, erratic heart rhythms, depression and weight gain. Usually this does not happen for patients that do not abuse the drug. Although the withdrawal symptoms can be very uncomfortable, they are not life threatening.