Tina H.
Adderall is a stimulant medication that is commonly prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. If taken as prescribed, then the medication is successful; however, Adderall is often abused, and, much like any drug, the consequences can be dangerous when taken for non-medical purposes.
With the recreational use of Adderall on the rise, it can be useful to know important information about the drug, such as how much Adderall actually induces an overdose and the symptoms to look out for. Read here to find out more.
Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant that is made up of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. The drug is prescribed as an ADHD medication and works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain to aid with concentration.
When taken as a prescription drug, Adderall improves focus and leads to a better overall performance in school or work. However, many people have started taking Adderall for recreational use as it induces feelings of pleasure and increases energy and productivity.
This has led to an increase in the number of college students abusing Adderall, as it is now recognized as a 'study drug'. In fact, in just one year, there were more than 4.8 million people, between the ages of 18 and 25, taking Adderall for non-medical use. Simultaneously, in recent years, the number of psychostimulant medication overdoses, including Adderall, is increasing drastically.
Due to its addictive qualities and risk of abuse, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes it as a Schedule II controlled substance, alongside warnings of the risk of overdose.
At therapeutic doses, it increases the activity of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which helps improve attention, focus, and wakefulness in people with ADHD or narcolepsy. It affects the central and peripheral nervous systems, which is why it can change mood, appetite, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Individual responses vary depending on metabolism, formulation, and dose. If someone is unsure which formulation they have or how long the effects last for them, they should consult their prescriber or pharmacist.
Below are the commonly used prescription starting doses and typical ranges used in practice (NOT guidance for non-prescribed use):
Even when Adderall is taken exactly as prescribed, many people notice side effects. These occur because Adderall stimulates the central nervous system and changes how the body processes dopamine and norepinephrine. While usually not life-threatening, they can still impact daily life.
Some possible side effects include:
Other side effects that are sometimes reported include upset stomach, dizziness, sweating, or changes in sexual drive.
Most side effects are dose-dependent and may lessen as the body adjusts or if a doctor modifies the dose or timing. It’s important not to ignore these symptoms — especially cardiovascular effects — and to bring them up with the prescribing clinician. In some cases, switching formulations (IR vs. XR) or adjusting the schedule can make a significant difference.
Adderall doesn’t act in isolation. Other medications, substances, and even everyday products can change the way it works in your body. Being aware of these interactions is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of dangerous side effects or accidental overdose.
Here are some of the most important Adderall interactions to know:
Bottom line: Always tell your prescriber about everything you take — including over-the-counter meds, vitamins, and supplements. Even everyday items can change how Adderall works in your body.
The answer is yes. If you take more than your prescribed dose or large amounts recreationally, then an Adderall overdose is definitely possible. However, some people are a lot more sensitive to prescription stimulants than others; therefore, the exact amount of Adderall that could result in an overdose differs for everyone.
An Adderall overdose is caused by the overstimulation of the sympathetic nervous system; this is the system responsible for our fight or flight response when facing possible danger.
A lethal dose of adderall depends on the individual's body weight. Typically, 20–25 mg/kg of an individual's body weight is enough for a fatal dose. This means that in one day, 70 mg of Adderall for an adult who weighs 150 pounds is the highest quantity that can be taken as a safe dose. This means that people with a lower body mass are at a higher risk of overdosing.
Although there is no specific amount of Adderall that will induce an overdose, the risk of one is dependent on several personal factors, and these include:
If Adderall is being taken with other substances, then the risk of an overdose is even higher. For example, the effects of alcohol are often muted if a person takes Adderall while drinking, resulting in a person consuming larger quantities of alcohol than usual. As both drugs affect the heart, this higher intake of alcohol can increase the risk of heart attacks, high blood pressure, and, in the worst cases, stroke.
Adderall can also have negative interactions with other medications such as nutritional supplements, vitamins, or other prescribed drugs. For example, Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), prescribed to treat depression, increase Adderall's effects within the body and therefore increase the risk of an Adderall overdose.
Amphetamine, one of Adderall's key components, works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These can affect the brain's reward response and increase heart rate and blood flow. Other overdose symptoms include:
It is important that if you or someone you know are taking Adderall and you recognize any of these symptoms, call 911 to receive immediate medical attention. It could be the difference between life and death.
If it is suspected that someone is experiencing an Adderall overdose, then seek medical emergency help immediately. It is important that when emergency responders arrive at the scene, they are given the correct information. Prepare to provide the following information:
Misuse of Adderall and Adderall addiction are on the rise. An Adderall overdose can be life-threatening and should be treated immediately to reduce the risk of the worst possible outcome. Treating an overdose as soon as you can, helps increase the chance of a full recovery. Although there is no specific treatment for an Adderall overdose, there is supportive care that doctors can give to help treat symptoms or any complications. This includes:
Treatment may also involve a healthcare professional administrating charcoal to absorb the remains of the Adderall. If an individual is experiencing serotonin syndrome, then doctors may also give medication to block serotonin.
If you're asking how much Adderall is too much, or a lethal dose, then you likely have a problem with an Adderall addiction. Misuse of Adderall and Adderall addiction are on the rise. The attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication has been linked to enhancements in cognitive function, which has contributed to Adderall being favored among study drugs. Adderall misuse is popular among high school and college students for its positive effects on academic performance.
Drug abuse of any addictive substance for long enough will make your brain and body slowly become accustomed to the presence of the drug which results in changes in the chemistry of your brain. This is when tolerance and dependence are formed.
Of course, no one begins taking Adderall to become addicted to it. The issue typically starts when someone who has not been prescribed the drug takes it to increase productivity. Adderall dependence can be dangerous and can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. This makes it even harder for users to stop taking the drug and continues the cycle of addiction.
Seeking addiction treatment can be daunting but it is the first step on the road to recovery. The first stage of any substance addiction is a detox to allow the body time to rid itself of any toxins that are left.
A medical detox monitored by a healthcare professional is highly recommended as it allows for individual support and management with any withdrawal symptoms that may be experienced.
Once the drug has left the body, then an ongoing recovery plan should be put in place to ensure long and lasting sobriety. A treatment plan will include behavioral therapy to get to the root of the addiction and to help an individual work through any co-occurring mental illnesses.
No matter what stage of addiction you are at, help is always available to support you.
Yes. Taking more Adderall than prescribed, using it without a prescription, or combining it with other stimulants or alcohol can lead to an overdose. An Adderall overdose happens when the amount in the body overwhelms the nervous system and cardiovascular system. The risk is higher for people with heart problems, high blood pressure, or those mixing Adderall with other substances. If an overdose is suspected, it is a medical emergency — call 911 immediately.
There is no single number of milligrams that counts as “too much Adderall” for everyone. What is too much depends on factors like body weight, health conditions, tolerance, and whether the person is using immediate-release (IR) or extended-release (XR) formulations. Exceeding the dose prescribed by a doctor increases the risk of dangerous side effects such as high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or severe anxiety. If you feel your dose is too strong, do not adjust it yourself — speak with your prescribing clinician right away.
Adderall overdose symptoms can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening. Common signs include:
Recognizing these symptoms early is critical. If you see these warning signs in yourself or someone else, seek emergency medical help immediately.
The duration of Adderall’s effects depends on the formulation:
Metabolism, age, and other medications can also affect how long Adderall stays active in the body. If the effects wear off too quickly or last too long, it’s important to discuss this with your prescriber rather than adjusting the dose on your own.
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse, then we, at Cornerstone, are here to help you. We understand that addiction differs for everyone and specialize in different sets of needs for our individual clients.
We offer drug and alcohol detox in rehabilitation centers that are dedicated to our residential treatment programs, intensive outpatient drug programs, extended care, and long-term sober living homes.
Our highly qualified and skilled team of staff is dedicated and committed to helping you overcome your addiction and allows for the promise and possibility of a happy and rewarding life that is free from addiction.
Contact us today to discuss substance abuse treatment options. Find help: Drug Rehab Southern California
Reviewed & Approved
This content has been reviewed for accuracy and comprehensiveness by Phil Kosanovich, MBA, President & CEO of Cornerstone of Southern California. If you have any questions or notice any inaccuracies, please contact us at [email protected].
