Adderall is a prescription drug that enhances attention span and concentration by stimulating the central nervous system (CNS). It is a combination of amphetamine salts, consisting mainly of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine.
Adderall RX has been approved by the FDA as a drug to treat conditions like the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is now one of the widely accepted methods of treatment for both adults and children. The drug also turned out to be useful in treating fatigue in multiple sclerosis patients as well as various sleep disorders (e.g., narcolepsy).
People also use this drug for purposes that are not necessarily legally intended. That is because Adderall appears to be a great energy enhancer that also promotes wakefulness. Due to such effects it has become popular among students.
However, it seems to have a number of side effects and some real potential to induce addiction, tolerance and withdrawal problems. These effects are becoming a real issue for adult ADHD patients and parents of children suffering these symptoms.
Even if taken within the recommended dosages it can cause the unwanted side effects. That is the main reason why a lot of people these days are choosing nootropic supplements as a legal and a much safer replacement. For example, Adrafinil can boost the mental energy to be the same extent.
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Once it is absorbed into the bloodstream, Adderall is taken up by neurons in the brain. It then starts affecting the storage areas that contain some of the most important neurotransmitters. Specifically, hormones known as catecholamines: dopamine, norepinephrine and adrenaline.
These chemicals are part of the stress response system in the human body. The hormones are released when we need additional mental energy, for example, during stressful or exciting moments.
Adderall induces the release of these neurotransmitters by artificially boosting the adrenergic system. Effects are in many ways similar to other amphetamine stimulants. They include increased heart rate, blood pressure, but also energy rise, and enhancement in concentration, alertness and attention.
Benefits of Adderall:
“Elevated mood is the main positive benefit reported following Adderall usage.”
As the levels of dopamine, serotonin and adrenaline rise, the user can experience euphoric feelings and a change in their brain chemistry. Adderall provides the extra focus, attention span and motivation which results in higher levels of productivity. It is why it is prescribed for ADHD patients.
Some evidence even suggests this type of stimulation may actually make certain areas of the brain to grow in size. Specifically, part of the brains that are known to be responsible for attention, motivation and focus. Further, Adderall is an amphetamine that suppresses appetite and it is often is used as an off-label weight loss supplement.
Dosage of Adderall:
The recommended dosage of Adderall is often based on two main criteria. Firstly, the age of a patient is very important. Secondly, the purpose the drug is being taken for should be clearly understood.
It is absolutely crucial to speak to a medical professional before taking Adderall in any circumstances. Ideally, you would be supervised by the doctor during the period of its use. The recommended daily dosage of Adderall is between 5 and 60 mg. This amount should be administered several times a day, preferably in 4 to 6 hour intervals. However, the recommended dosage is very much dependent on individual circumstances and factors, therefore you should seek medical advice before taking it.
Tolerance and side effects of Adderall:
A number of negative side effects are associated with the use of Adderall. Most reported ones include dry mouth, loss of appetite, anxiety and problems sleeping. There are also major risks related to the usage of Adderall for users who have ongoing heart problems, because of the increased blood pressure and heart rate.
Individuals with overactive thyroid, glaucoma, epilepsy, serious anxiety problems or recent history of MAO inhibitor use are also advised against trying Adderall.
The tolerance of Adderall is a controversial topic, which is often surrounded by conflicting reports. While some doctors claim minimum dosage and strictly “on-demand” usage should be enough to minimize the chances of developing tolerance, there is no guarantee of avoiding it completely.
Concerns about Adderall in the medical community are just growing. Researchers have shown that the body needs several days to recover from using the drug. It is mainly the production of the essential, Adderall-affected neurotransmitters that has to be restored. Such abnormalities are likely to result in receptor down regulation, adrenal fatigue. Neurotoxicity is also not out of the question, as the brain gets flooded with excessive levels of excitatory neurotransmitters.
Because Adderall is linked to so many risks and side effects, Modafinil and its even safer alternative – Adrafinil are suggested as a newer, safer and in many ways more effective way to replace it.
Nootropics as an alternative to Adderall:
A lot of users of Adderall report unwanted side effects (see above). This is probably the main reason why they look for effective alternatives. Nootropics is a safe and effective way to treat ADHD and ADD. A detailed list of nootropics and nootropic stacks for ADHD and ADD can be found here.
Summary:
No one would argue against the effectiveness of Adderall for the short-term treatment of ADHD. However, the very real risks of developing unwanted side effects have to be carefully analysed before attempting to take it. Consulting your doctor is absolutely essential.
Today there are various nootropic products available for those who are not willing to risk. For example, many people have been successfully replacing Adderall with the combination of Noopept and your preferred source of choline (e.g., Alpha GPC).
These supplements are known to improve the motivation, attention and boost the energy levels, without causing any side effects. In fact, these and many other nootropics are actually neuroprotective as they help to maintain the good health of your brain.