Potential consequences of Adderall misuse

Adderall is a prescription stimulant drug that treats attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes severe daytime drowsiness. The misuse of Adderall is common in high schools and on college campuses, in part because of its availability and partly because of its false reputation for boosting academic performance.

Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning that it is only available with a doctor’s prescription, and even then there are restrictions. While the performance-enhancing capabilities of Adderall are a myth, its misuse can have serious consequences.

Criminal charges

It is illegal for a student with a valid prescription for Adderall to sell or share the drug with friends or classmates. Such activity may result in criminal charges for distribution. It is also illegal to possess Adderall without a valid prescription. This is true even if the student had a valid prescription at one time. For example, the student cannot retain any unused portion after the prescription runs out. Instead, he or she must dispose of it according to the Food and Drug Administration’s established guidelines.

It is also illegal to possess more Adderall than prescribed. This makes it appear that the purpose was to sell it to others, which may result in drug trafficking charges.

Physical effects

Taking Adderall without a prescription or counter to a doctor’s instructions can have a negative effect on the body. Overdose is rare but may be serious. Adderall can produce dangerous interactions with alcohol or other medications, including both prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

Part of the reason Adderall is a controlled substance is that it has a high potential for abuse and addiction. People who misuse it for a prolonged period may develop a tolerance, meaning that they need to take more to achieve the same effects. This occurs due to chemical changes that the drug produces in the brain.

Students can prevent consequences such as these by only taking Adderall according to a doctor’s instructions and not sharing it with others who do not have a prescription.