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If you are a parent, pay attention. There is a very good chance your child will eventually use prescription ADHD medications like Adderall when they don’t have an ADHD diagnoses. In the past decade, Adderall has become increasingly popular for overworked and overscheduled high school and college students.

What Parents Need to Know About Adderall Abuse

Why On Earth Would My Kid Take Adderall?

They think it gives them superpowers. Kids believe that it will improve their athletic and academic performance. There is also a lack of knowledge surrounding the drug, it’s easy to get, and there are no social stigmas. In fact, in a 2008 study of 1,800 college students, 81% of students interviewed thought the illicit use of Adderall was "not dangerous at all" or just "slightly dangerous."

It’s also easy to get from kids who do need the prescription drug to manage their ADHD symptoms. Kids are passing Adderall around like candy.

In one study of about 1,800 college students, 34% reported the illegal use of ADHD stimulants, such as Adderall.  Most illegal users reported using ADHD stimulants primarily in periods of high academic stress and found them to reduce fatigue while increasing reading comprehension, interest, cognition, and memory. Furthermore, most had little information about the drug and found procurement to be both easy and stigma free.

The numbers vary by region and school, with the greatest proportion of users at private High Schools and Universities. Some researchers estimate that over 30% of students use stimulants non-medically.

The worst part is that students don’t know the risks. The reality is that Adderall is highly addictive, with some research indicating it is as addictive as methamphetamines. While the picture of a methamphetamine user has hollowed cheeks, rotting teeth, and skin sores, an Adderall user looks just like anybody else. Many college students report classmates taking Adderall as if it is a daily vitamin.

What Are The Risks of Taking Adderall?

There are many and they are worrisome. Many people find it difficult to manage their anger, report hallucinations, rapid heart rate and paranoia. Other short-term adverse consequences include sleep difficulties, restlessness, headaches, irritability, and depressed feelings. Loss of appetite, nervousness, and changes in sex drive are also reported.

Is Adderall Addictive?

Yes. The long-term risk of psychological and physical dependence is of concern for routine users that may find they do not feel they can function optimally without it. Adderall is classified by the US Drug Enforcement Administration as a schedule II substance, meaning it has a high potential for abuse.