Adderall, the so-called "good-grade" pill, is one of the more readily accessible drugs today and is a common part of life on college and high school campuses nationwide.
While physicians prescribe this medication to help people suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) stay focused, an increasing number of students are abusing the drug. Many think the drug helps them obtain higher grades by increasing concentration and helping them stay up longer to study.
Research shows over 25% of teenagers believe prescription drugs can be used as a study aid. Nearly 70% of college seniors will be offered prescription stimulants for non-medical use during college and about 30% will use them at least once, according to statistics from the Center for Lawful Access and Abuse Deterrence.
Some common signs of addiction to prescription drugs such as Adderall include:
- Psychotic behaviors
- Signs of psychological dependence
- Efforts to seek higher doses
- Disruptions to daily routine
- Signs of snorting
Listen in as Indra Cidambi, MD, shares the warning signs of Adderall abuse and how you can help your teen.
Indra Cidambi, M.D., Medical Director, Center for Network Therapy, is recognized as a leading expert and pioneer in the field of Addiction Medicine. Under her leadership the Center for Network Therapy started New Jersey's first state licensed Ambulatory (Outpatient) Detoxification program for all substances nearly three years ago. Dr. Cidambi is Board Certified in General Psychiatry and double Board Certified in Addiction Medicine (ABAM, ABPN). She is fluent in five languages, including Russian.