Adderall and Adderall XR (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) are commonly prescribed to treat narcolepsy and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). As stimulant drugs, they can help people living with these disorders to focus and/or stay awake. Unfortunately, because it is a potent stimulant drug, Adderall is commonly abused. People often abuse Adderall to accomplish a great deal in their work or school life while also managing an active social life. When people abuse Adderall for those reasons, they often mix recreational substances – like alcohol – with their Adderall and inadvertently experience dangerous medical emergencies as a result.
Dangers of Adderall and Alcohol
Many people take Adderall so they can more easily manage a busy overall schedule – one that includes studying for tests or completing projects at work while also connecting with friends on the weekends. Though they may not intentionally take Adderall and chase it with a beer or a cocktail, they may have taken Adderall earlier in the day with the goal of working on a project and then hitting the bars or parties when they were done. With Adderall still in their system, they may have a drink, or multiple drinks, thus, inadvertently putting themselves in a situation where the two drugs are combined. Others purposefully take Adderall when they go out for the night with the intention to drink. This is because they are hoping that the stimulant effect of Adderall will allow them to stay out and drink longer without realizing that the combination of the two drugs can trigger adverse effects. These can include:
- Increasing the likelihood of accidents while under the influence
- Risky behaviors that can translate into life-changing issues (e.g. unprotected sex that leads to an unplanned pregnancy or an STD)
- Medical emergencies due to overdose
Getting Help for an Adderall Addiction
Mixing Adderall and alcohol can be a life-altering, if not deadly, choice. If you think your loved one is mixing Adderall and alcohol, don’t wait to intervene. Treatment can help them to find non-stimulant alternatives if there is an underlying medical diagnosis of ADHD and also assist them in learning how to live without abusing alcohol, Adderall, or any substance.
Here at Futures Recovery Healthcare, we provide a comprehensive services that ensure that you receive the best chance of recovery. Addiction is a disease that is both physical and psychological, and both aspects need to be addressed in order to promote long-term success. Psychotherapy, evidence-based treatment models, support groups, healthy lifestyle choices, and a private, relaxing environment provide the necessary tools for a positive outcome. Call us today to learn about our addiction treatment programs.
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