Adderall, amphetamine-dextroamphetamine, is a medication used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Taking too much Adderall can lead to overdose, including symptoms such as rapid breathing, agitation, seizures, and blurred vision. Adderall overdose can be fatal, particularly if it is combined with other substances.
If someone has taken an overdose of Adderall, call 911 immediately as they may require immediate medical attention.
- Adderall overdose can cause symptoms including rapid breathing, fainting, vomiting, seizures, and shaking, and can be fatal.
- In the event of an Adderall overdose, immediate medical attention is required and may include the administration of medications to manage overdose symptoms.
- Various substances can interact with Adderall, including antidepressants and other stimulants.
Can you overdose on Adderall?
Adderall is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that can cause overdose when taken in larger doses than prescribed or when used illicitly. Taking too much Adderall can cause overdose symptoms that may range from mild to severe or even fatal. Because of its effects on the CNS, Adderall overdose can cause psychological and cardiovascular issues which may require intensive professional care. [1]
Adderall is used as a medication for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and is often used illicitly to produce performance-enhancing effects such as increased alertness, energy, and attention. Because of its abuse potential, Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance. [2][3]
Combining Adderall with other substances can increase the risk of adverse effects and overdose. For example, taking other stimulant substances with Adderall, such as methamphetamine or cocaine, may increase the risk of severe effects on the heart. [4]
Factors that can impact the risk of overdose include: [5]
- Age, weight, and health of the individual
- Dosage
- Whether prescribed or illicit Adderall
- Combining Adderall with other substances
- The method of taking Adderall, such as injecting, snorting, or ingesting
Can you die from Adderall overdose?
It is possible to die from an Adderall overdose. Adderall can cause sudden death due to heart-related issues, although this risk is likely to be higher in those with a history of cardiac problems. [3]
The effects of an Adderall overdose can be severe and will typically require immediate medical attention. Most reports of Adderall overdose indicate that a full recovery is possible with proper treatment. The severity of Adderall overdose and the potential for death may be higher in those with medical issues or concurrent substance use. [5][6]
Maximum recommended Adderall dosage
Depending on the individual and their condition, a recommended daily dose of Adderall is between 5 mg and 60 mg. Taking more than this can increase the risk of overdose and death. A fatal overdose can also occur within this dose range, particularly if other factors are involved such as poor health or multiple substance use. [3]
Adderall overdose symptoms
Common symptoms of Adderall overdose can include: [3][7]
- Agitation
- Heart palpitations
- Hyperactivity
- Increased temperature
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Enlarged pupils
- Twitching
- Blurred vision
- Stomach issues such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Shaking
Severe Adderall overdose symptoms
Severe Adderall overdose symptoms can include: [3][7]
- Aggression
- Uncontrollable body movements
- Extreme increase in heart rate
- Rapid breathing
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Delirium
- Psychotic symptoms
- Paranoia
- Severe anxiety
- Seizures
- Loss of vision
- Fever
- Teeth grinding
- Swelling of face, eyes, tongue, or throat
- Rashes, hives, or blisters on the skin
- Fainting
- Coma
Serotonin syndrome is a rare and potentially fatal condition that can occur with Adderall overdose, particularly when combined with serotonergic medications such as antidepressants. This can include symptoms such as: [3][4]
- Extreme changes in mood and behavior
- Fever
- Chills
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Shaking
- Seizures
- Vomiting
- Changes in blood pressure
- Coma
What to do if someone overdoses on Adderall
If any of the severe overdose symptoms listed above are observed, call 911 immediately, as the effects can be fatal and require immediate medical intervention.
Treatment for Adderall overdose
The effects of an Adderall overdose can be life-threatening and will often require rapid medical treatment. There is no antidote for Adderall overdose, but treatments can be administered to reduce or manage symptoms and hospitalization may be required for close monitoring. [8]
Treatments can include: [1][8]
- Benzodiazepines: To manage seizures and agitation
- Beta-blockers: To manage rapid and irregular heartbeat
- Antipsychotics: To manage psychotic symptoms, agitation, delirium, and movement disorders
Long-term effects of Adderall overdose
People may experience long-term effects following prolonged Adderall use, overdose, or use of high doses. This can include: [1]
- Psychotic symptoms
- Heart issues
- Muscle breakdown and movement problems (rhabdomyolysis)
- Nerve damage
- Organ damage
Following initial overdose treatment, ongoing care may be required to help manage these effects. This might include psychiatric medications, physical therapy, or medical treatments.
Adderall interactions
Combining Adderall with other CNS stimulants can increase the risk of dangerous and potentially fatal cardiac effects. This includes: [4]
- Other ADHD medications such as lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate
- Illicit substances such as methamphetamine, cocaine, and ecstasy
Combining Adderall with serotonergic substances can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. This includes: [3]
- Antidepressants such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants,
- Opioids, such as tramadol
- Lithium
- Fentanyl
- Tryptophan
- St. John’s wort
Combining Adderall with CNS depressant medications can cause significant risks. As Adderall is a CNS stimulant, taking Adderall with a CNS depressant can mean that the effects of each are masked by the other. This can contribute to individuals taking dangerously high doses and to extreme and potentially severe effects on the CNS. [4]
CNS depressants commonly used in combination with Adderall that increase the risk of dangerous effects and overdose include:
- Benzodiazepines
- Opioids
Where to find treatment for Adderall abuse
Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and dependence. These effects can occur following prescribed or illicit use and may require professional intervention. Substance use disorder treatments that can help manage Adderall abuse include:
- Inpatient rehab
- Outpatient treatments
- Alternative medications to manage ADHD
- Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms or detox
- Therapy or counseling
- Support groups
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