Adderall is a popular mental health medication doctors prescribe to help treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is readily diagnosed in children and teenagers who may be started on the medication early. Adderall can be habit-forming and even addictive, like many other mental health medications. How long does Adderall stay in your system, though? The drug’s use and prescription will determine how long it stays in the bloodstream.
If you or a loved one struggles with Adderall addiction, it might be time to get help. Our Adderall addiction treatment program in Washington offers solutions to help kickstart the recovery journey.
Adderall Side-Effects and Symptoms
While Adderall can be beneficial in treating ADHD, it is essential to understand the potential side effects and symptoms associated with its use. Some common side effects include:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Difficulty sleeping
- Headaches
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
If you experience any of these side effects while taking Adderall, it is essential to speak with your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage or recommend alternative treatments. Abusing Adderall may cause more severe symptoms and lead to addiction.
How Long Do Adderall Symptoms Last?
The duration of Adderall symptoms can vary depending on the individual and their usage of the medication. Generally, side effects will subside as the body adjusts to the drug’s presence. However, some symptoms may persist for longer periods or even become permanent.
For example, changes in mood or behavior may last for a few days or weeks until the body gets used to the medication. On the other hand, increased heart rate and blood pressure may persist for a longer time, especially if Adderall is taken in high doses or abused.
How Long Does Adderall Last in the Body?
When a substance is used or abused, it can take time to leave the body. Medications work through different methods of delivering the chemicals found in them over different periods.
Adderall is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, which slowly work through the body to relieve symptoms of ADHD. As the drug leaves the body, tests can still trace it over some time. The amount of time tests can detect it depends on a half-life. Half-life refers to the amount of time for a chemical to be completely used up by its environment.
When a person stops using Adderall, they often stop feeling the drug’s effects very quickly. But, the different chemicals that comprise the drug remain in the body at different levels until they are used up.
Adderall usually leaves the body entirely in about three days but may dissipate more quickly. Other factors, like alcohol and other drug use, can cause Adderal to stay in the body longer.
How Long Is Adderall Detectable?
Different types of drug tests will be able to detect Adderall for varying amounts of time. Since the body works to get rid of chemicals in medication in different ways, Adderall can sometimes be stored in different areas of the body before it is flushed out.
- Urine tests generally can detect Adderall between two hours and three days after taking it. Urine tests are the most common type of drug test requested by many employers before a new employee begins.
- Saliva tests usually detect Adderall between 20 minutes and 48 hours after taking the pill. Saliva tests are generally reserved for testing for medication poisoning since they can detect drugs so quickly after ingestion.
- Blood tests can detect Adderall within just a few minutes of ingestion. These tests are usually reserved for hospital use since they are more intrusive and require a skilled test administrator.
- Hair tests can find traces of Adderall between one week and one month after ingesting. Since these tests take so long to be accurate, they may only be used in specific rehab situations.
Since there are many factors that can affect how long Adderall stays in the body, including dosage, frequency of use, and individual metabolism rates, it is important to consult with a medical professional for an accurate estimation. It is also crucial to follow prescribed dosages and not to abuse or misuse Adderall, as it could lead to dependence and addiction.
What Factors Influence How Long Adderall Remains in the System?
The body has to work to flush Adderall from its system. Since every person has a different body, they will all dispose of Adderall differently.
Generally, the main factors affecting how long Adderall is traceable are:
- Genetics
- Height
- Weight
- Liver function
- Kidney function
- Hydration
- Nutrition
Your experience with Adderall and other medications will also help determine how long it stays in your body. If you have been taking Adderall for a while, it may remain detectable longer than someone who has only recently started using the medication.
When Does Adderall Use Become an Addiction?
Many people find Adderall extremely effective for controlling their ADHD symptoms and find great relief in their daily lives. They may never abuse the drug or form a dependence on it.
However, since Adderall contains amphetamines, it does have the potential to be highly addictive. By taking the prescription against the intended directions, a person abuses the substance. Substance abuse can quickly lead to addiction if someone becomes dependent on Adderall.
After substance abuse starts, many people begin taking a higher dose of the medication to feel the effects because their tolerance has increased. As their tolerance increases, their body and mind will depend on the drug to function normally. Trying to quit Adderall after becoming dependent will result in withdrawal symptoms. Dependence is the hallmark of addiction.
Recovering From an Adderall Addiction in Washington State
The first step on the road to recovery is detoxification. When you detox after abusing Adderall, you may be met with uncomfortable, even dangerous, side effects.
At Northpoint Washington, we’ve had the privilege of working with many people with this addiction. We know the stress you might be under as you consider what your next steps should be. It might be overwhelming for you right now, but we can help you get through this trying time.
Seeking help in a professional detox and rehabilitation center can be one of the most important decisions you can make when beginning your recovery journey. Medical professionals can monitor your withdrawal symptoms and keep you as comfortable as possible.
Your success in sobriety is our primary mission. We know that your recovery needs are unique, and we help to provide you with the tools you need to continue your sobriety long after leaving our doors.
If you are ready to start an Adderall treatment program, contact us online or at 888.450.2153 today.