What is Adderall and Methamphetamine?
Over recent years, children, adolescents, and adults are being prescribed the medication known as Adderall to treat the symptoms of ADHD. As prescriptions for the drug increase, so too does improper usage, abuse, and addiction.
As a leading rehab for meth, many family members of our clients voice their concerns about their loved ones’ meth use, as well as, whether or not it is similar to Adderall. In fact, one of the most common misconceptions with the drug Adderall is that it is the same as meth, or methamphetamine. This article is meant to help readers understand the differences between Adderall and methamphetamine.
Adderall versus Methamphetamine
Adderall is a combination drug which is derived from amphetamine, a parent drug of methamphetamine. Because the term ‘amphetamine’ is associated with both Adderall and methamphetamine, they are often thought to be the same. This has led to a number of studies that compare both drugs to one another.
The results of the studies regarding Adderall versus Methamphetamine have been successful in demonstrating many similarities, but also a few clear differences. The studies also raised questions regarding the safety of Adderall; particularly with children. As a rehab for meth, we have known of people who seek out a prescription for Adderall by claiming to have the symptoms of ADHD, but never actually having the condition. Some people have eventually turned to meth when they are seeking a stronger, or easier to access, high.
Amphetamines
Adderall is known as a combination drug. It contains four different salts of amphetamine. Amphetamine is regularly used to treat narcolepsy, obesity, and ADHD, as well as other conditions. Amphetamine is the parent drug of methamphetamine, a drug developed early in the 20th century. Amphetamine and methamphetamine do share similarities.
According to the United States National Institute on Drug Abuse, larger amounts of methamphetamine are released into the brain during use. This results in “longer-lasting and more harmful effects on the central nervous system.” Meth is also more toxic than Adderall and can cause neurological damage. In very rare scenarios, methamphetamine can be prescribed to a person. When this is true, the drug is a very low dose compared to what a person abusing it may use. Finally, while it is certainly possible to go to an Adderall rehab, it is more common for a person to have used Adderall, but eventually graduate to methamphetamine; thereby requiring treatment at a rehab for meth.
How Adderall and Meth are Similar
The most noticeable similarity between Adderall and meth is the effects the drug has on a person. Both Adderall and methamphetamine are stimulants that increase focus, attention, and ongoing stimulation. The reaction is typically the primary reason a person will use the drug. It is not uncommon for highschoolers and college students to use Adderall during studying for exams or tests. Athletes may use it to increase their performance and stamina. Using Adderall like this will almost certainly cause a dependency when it is used concurrently or often. Both Adderall and methamphetamine might also be used by teenagers or adults to lose weight quickly. The drugs can also cause a decrease in appetite, increased heart rate, rapid blood pressure, and very high energy levels.
The Primary Differences Between Adderall versus Meth
One of the most notable differences between meth and Adderall is the chemical compound that is used to create drugs. Adderall contains a mixture of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts. Whereas, methamphetamine is made from a double methylation process. In other words this process allows meth to be lipid soluble; thereby, able to cross the blood brain barrier. The cross of the blood brain barrier causes the drug to affect the brain cells and tissue of the user.
According to studies, people who are legitimately prescribed Adderall for ADHD can benefit from improved cognitive and social abilities. They have also demonstrated more self control and focus, as well as a slight increase in IQ. Improved relationships might also be noticed. Methamphetamine use, on the other hand, shows a significant decrease in these areas, especially after long term use. A meth rehab in Thailand, or elsewhere, will also usually be needed.
Can Adderall Be Addictive?
Although Adderall does not cross the blood brain barrier, and improves the symptoms of ADHD, there are many people who use the drug without a valid prescription. Studies in the United States suggest at least 30 % of all Adderall prescribed is sold or given away. Those who abuse the medication might turn to snorting it, and when this happens, brain damage, psychosis, weakened immune systems, heart problems might occur. Prolonged use of Adderall can cause an addiction, and with some people, negative circumstances can occur. In this case an Adderall rehab may be necessary. The risk of having a heart attack or stroke with prolonged use of Adderall is also higher; the same applies to meth use. One of the greatest concerns for people who use Adderall against, or without, a prescription is that they will not be able to get the medication. Methamphetamine may be their next go-to choice.
Signs of an Amphetamine Addiction
If you notice the following symptoms, and believe an amphetamine addiction is possible, a Thailand addiction treatment centre may be able to help you:
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Excessive sleeping (for 15-36 hours or more at a time)
- Staying awake for long periods of time (often more than 24 hours)
- Social isolation
- Hyperactivity
- Unusual excitability
- Paranoia
- Financial problems
- Overly talkative
- Tinkering with things
- Strange behaviour
A meth or Adderall addict does not need to exhibit all of the aforementioned symptoms to have an addiction. However, you should be in tune with these signs so you know when a rehab for meth or Adderall may be necessary.
A Rehab for Meth or Adderall
Many people with an amphetamine addiction have come to our meth rehab in Thailand, completed our programme. and gone on to live a satisfying, healthy, and very successful life. Our individual programme enables patients to succeed in their recovery. We are ready to offer you guidance and support through individual counselling, group therapy, nutritional advice, fitness activities, relaxation techniques, and more.
If you or someone you know has an amphetamine addiction, you are not alone. Contact our meth rehab in Thailand for support, advice, and the right treatment to help you turn your life around. Call Siam Rehab now.
