Adderall is a frequently prescribed stimulant medication for individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can be safe and effective when used as directed by a healthcare professional. However, misusing the medication can result in serious negative effects. Recently, a 29-year-old man with ADHD took more Adderall than his psychiatrist recommended. As a result, he experienced ongoing psychotic symptoms that were treated with haloperidol.

Stimulant misuse

In order to address the issue of non-compliance with psychiatric treatment and recurring hospitalizations, the patient was given long-acting injectable haloperidol decanoate to improve adherence and prognosis. This treatment successfully kept the patient’s psychosis in remission. Through this case study, we emphasize the importance of further research to identify risk factors for stimulant misuse. Randomized clinical trials are necessary to assess the efficacy of long-acting injectable antipsychotic medication in managing persistent psychosis caused by stimulant misuse.

One of the most commonly used drugs for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is Adderall, which is made up of mixed amphetamine salts. This type of medication is classified as a stimulant and can increase dopamine levels in the brain, leading to the phenomenon of “sensitization” over time. When taken recreationally at doses higher than prescribed, amphetamines can mimic psychosis. However, using stimulants at therapeutic doses for treating ADHD has been shown to decrease the risk of substance abuse in these patients. Furthermore, imaging studies have demonstrated that stimulant use has different effects on those with ADHD compared to individuals without the disorder.

Sometimes, people who are under the influence of amphetamines can experience a type of mental disorder known as substance-induced psychosis. However, in some cases, this can develop into a more Persistent Psychotic Disorder that persists even after the effects of the drugs have worn off. This can be especially difficult to diagnose and treat in young adults, as it can be hard to distinguish between a first episode of psychosis and a stimulant-induced disorder that could lead to schizophrenia-like symptoms.

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Adderall comes with a massive list of side effects

This medication is a combination used to treat ADHD, which works by altering the levels of natural substances in the brain. It belongs to a group of medicines called stimulants, and it helps improve your ability to concentrate, manage behavior issues, and stay focused on tasks. Additionally, it can help with organizing and enhancing your listening skills. It is also used to treat narcolepsy, a disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness. However, it should not be used for non-sleep disorder-related tiredness or to delay sleep. While this medication is useful for many people, it may lead to addiction, especially if you have a substance use disorder.

Loss of appetite, weight loss, dry mouth, stomach upset/pain, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, fever, nervousness, and trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor promptly.

Please keep in mind that your doctor has prescribed this medication based on their assessment that the benefits outweigh any potential side effects. It’s worth noting that most people who use this medication do not experience any significant adverse effects.

This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: “signs of blood flow problems in the fingers or toes (such as coldness, numbness, pain, or skin color changes), unusual wounds on the fingers or toes, mental/mood/behavior changes (such as agitation, aggression, mood swings, depression, abnormal thoughts, thoughts of suicide), uncontrolled movements, continuous chewing movements/teeth grinding, outbursts of words/sounds, change in sexual ability/desire, frequent/prolonged erections (in males).”

If you experience any severe side effects like shortness of breath, chest, jaw or left arm pain, fainting, severe headache, irregular heartbeat, seizures, swelling of the ankles or feet, extreme tiredness, blurred vision, weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking or confusion, Seek Medical Attention immediately.

The serotonin syndrome

Please note that this medication can raise serotonin levels and, in rare cases, lead to a serious condition called serotonin syndrome/toxicity. The risk becomes higher if you are taking other medications that also increase serotonin. Therefore, it’s important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the drugs you are taking (please refer to the Drug Interactions section).

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately: fast heartbeat, hallucinations, loss of coordination, severe dizziness, severe nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, twitching muscles, unexplained fever, unusual agitation/restlessness.

If you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as a rash, swelling or itching (particularly in the face, tongue or throat), trouble breathing or extreme dizziness, seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, this is not an exhaustive list of potential side effects. If you experience any other effects not mentioned above, please contact your doctor or pharmacist.

What Is Adderall Tongue?

Adderall tongue is not a recognized disorder but more so a group of symptoms that people taking Adderall may experience. Each person seems to experience Adderall tongue a little differently, and with varying degrees of severity.

Most descriptions of Adderall tongue are anecdotal as no studies have specifically looked at this phenomenon. Many people describe it as:

A sore tongue
A dry tongue and dry mouth
A raw feeling on the tongue
Swelling of the tongue and mouth
Ulcers or sores on the tongue

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a common side effect of Adderall and other stimulant medications. In fact, it’s considered one of the more common adverse effects associated with taking Adderall.

When you experience dry mouth as a result of a medication you are taking, dryness in your mouth and on your tongue isn’t the only symptom. Dry mouth is caused by a decrease in saliva production and can lead to other issues, including:9

Bad breath
Heightened thirst
Sore throat
Trouble swallowing
Hoarse voice
Sores on the tongue, lips, and mouth
Pain in the tongue, lips, and mouth
Trouble with taste

Other potential signs of an Adderall allergic reaction can include:

Hives, rash, or itchy skin
Breathing issues, such as wheezing
Swelling of the lips, mouth, throat, and the areas around the eyes
Anaphylaxis, which can include labored breathing, dizziness, nausea, disorientation, rapid pulse, vomiting

Stay tuned for more health-related advice and make sure you know what you’re doing and always check the balance between benefits and side effects when you’re taking a new drug.

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