Adderall is a prescription stimulant medication that contains two active ingredients: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine.(Source) These substances stimulate the central nervous system and affect brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine, which influence attention, impulse control, and activity level.(Source)

Doctors most commonly prescribe Adderall to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, teens, and adults. In some cases, it may also be prescribed for narcolepsy.(Source)

Because Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States, it has a recognized medical use but also a high potential for misuse and dependence.(Source) That means:

• Only a licensed medical provider can legally prescribe Adderall.
• Taking Adderall without a prescription, taking more than prescribed, or using it in a way not directed by your doctor is considered misuse and is illegal.

Adderall is not safe for everyone. People with certain medical conditions are generally advised not to take stimulant medications like Adderall unless a specialist determines that the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. These conditions can include:(Source)

• Certain heart problems (such as structural heart defects, serious heart rhythm issues, or coronary artery disease)
• Moderate to severe high blood pressure
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
• Glaucoma
• Severe anxiety, agitation, or certain psychiatric conditions
• A history of serious stimulant misuse

Even when Adderall is prescribed appropriately, it can cause side effects such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, and anxiety.(Source)

If you have a history of substance use disorder, including alcohol or other drugs, your prescriber should carefully weigh the risks and monitor you closely if Adderall is considered.(Source)

At Cardinal Recovery, part of the Zinnia family, we see firsthand how stimulant medications like Adderall can become a problem when they are misused to study longer, work harder, or push through intense workouts. Our team includes support workers, counselors, interventionists, psychologists, psychiatrists, and nurses with decades of combined experience in addiction treatment and recovery. Many of us are in long-term recovery ourselves and understand how easy it can be to slide from “using it to get things done” into dependence.

If you’re concerned about how Adderall is affecting your life—or someone you love—we’re here to help you understand your options and take the next step toward healing.