How To Cope With An Adderall Crash Or Comedown

Adderall is a prescription stimulant and controlled substance, which means it can lead to abuse and dependence. After heavy or frequent use, your brain may start to rely on its effects and is likely to experience a “crash” if you suddenly stop.

A crash can leave you feeling down, exhausted, and with intense cravings. Depending on how often you used it, you may experience severe symptoms, like depression. The most effective way to cope with an Adderall crash is with the help of professionals in an addiction treatment center.

Remedies For An Adderall Crash

Prescription stimulant withdrawal can be dangerous if symptoms become severe or lead to continued drug use. If you or a loved one experiences Adderall withdrawal symptoms, professional treatment and healthy lifestyle changes may help reduce symptoms.

Antidepressants

It’s important to communicate with your healthcare provider if you stopped taking Adderall and are experiencing feelings of depression. Depending on the severity and duration of your symptoms, your doctor may recommend an antidepressant.

During stimulant withdrawal, some people experience suicidal thoughts or ideation. These symptoms are potentially life-threatening and require immediate medical care.

Diet

Adderall can interfere with diet and health because it can decrease appetite. Once you start experiencing withdrawal symptoms, you may start to regain your appetite. Eating a wide variety of nutritious foods and hydrating with fluids may help relieve some symptoms of withdrawal.

Sleep Schedule

Adderall increases energy and heart rate, which can lead to a decreased need for sleep. Withdrawal can cause your sleep to become even more unbalanced, with periods of insomnia and fatigue.

Setting a regular schedule for sleep and allowing yourself time to rest during the early stages of withdrawal may help you recover.

Medical Detox

Inpatient detox offers trained medical staff and other professionals who will monitor your symptoms. You will be able to rest and recover away from the stresses of daily life, which may help prevent a relapse. You may also receive medication to ease severe symptoms.

What Causes An Adderall Crash?

Both formulations of Adderall, including Adderall IR (immediate-release) and Adderall XR (extended-release), are central nervous system stimulants that contain amphetamine and dextroamphetamine.

Adderall treats symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy by increasing alertness, energy, and attention. It also increases the production of the neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.

Stimulating norepinephrine increases heart rate and blood pressure, which can cause a heart attack in high doses. In low doses, it can cause milder side-effects, like increased energy, wakefulness, and decreased appetite.

After long-term use, your brain may become dependent on how Adderall interacts with the brain. If you suddenly stop, your body may “crash” and experience unpleasant symptoms because of the lack of excess dopamine.

Symptoms Of An Adderall Crash

A crash, also referred to as a “comedown,” is the first stage of Adderall withdrawal. Symptoms start to appear as the drug leaves your system, usually within the first 24-48 hours after your last dose.

An Adderall comedown can last several days and may continue for up to 2 weeks.

Amphetamine withdrawal symptoms may include:

• strong cravings
• anxiety
• panic attacks
• uneasiness
• agitation
• fatigue
• depression
• low energy
• decreased mental functioning

Sleep Difficulties

Some people also experience a period of prolonged sleep followed by insomnia, despite a strong need for sleep. A lack of sleep can worsen symptoms of psychosis, paranoia, and mood swings that may occur with frequent Adderall abuse.

In addition, trouble sleeping can lead to further substance abuse with depressant drugs or sedatives to compensate.

Alcohol, benzodiazepines, and marijuana are commonly used to help people fall asleep during the crash phase. However, these can be addictive and dangerous if used outside of a doctor’s supervision.

Adderall Addiction Treatment

There are currently no FDA-approved medications to treat Adderall addiction, also known as a substance use disorder (SUD). However, behavioral therapy is an effective treatment method that can help you manage addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders.

At Northeast Addictions Treatment Center, we utilize a wide range of evidence-based treatments. Our outpatient treatment programs offer comprehensive services that also include family therapy, 12-step groups, and individual counseling.

If you would like to learn more about stimulant addiction treatment options, please contact us today.