Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms

Adderall withdrawal symptoms may start around 24 hours after the last dose, and may persist for around 3 weeks. Symptoms of withdrawal from Adderall may include severe cravings, fatigue, sleep problems, mood swings, and mental health problems.

Symptoms of Adderall withdrawal may be severe enough to cause a relapse in Adderall use. A detoxification, or detox, is a medical withdrawal management program that can stabilize patients, assess their symptoms, and prepare them for further treatment.

An Adderall detox can last until severe withdrawal symptoms diminish, which is around one week on average. After a successful detox, patients may be referred to other treatment plans such as behavioral therapy and mental health counseling.

Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms

Adderall withdrawal symptoms can be caused by a psychological dependence on the drug. A psychological dependence can be characterized by mental health problems that occur a short period of time after stopping drug use, motivating a person to take the drug again.

Adderall can also change the chemical balance in your central nervous system through the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. Quitting Adderall cold turkey, or all at once, can change your brain’s ability to produce these chemicals.

Adderall withdrawal symptoms can be separated into physical symptoms and psychological symptoms.

Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms of Adderall withdrawal are less common than psychological symptoms on average.

Physical symptoms can include:

• decreased motor functions
• fatigue
• increased appetite

These withdrawal symptoms can occur after the side effects of Adderall, such as increased heart rate, blood pressure, and hyperactivity, wear off.

Psychological Symptoms

Psychological symptoms are the more common aspect of amphetamine withdrawal, and may include:

• increased sleeping hours
• poor sleep quality
• irritability
• anxiety
• drug cravings
• psychosis
• suicidal thoughts

Severe psychological symptoms, such as suicidal thoughts and psychosis, can be life-threatening without proper treatment options.

Adderall Withdrawal Timeline

Adderall withdrawal can be divided into two main phases: the initial phase, which can last for around one week, and the protracted withdrawal phase, which can last for around 3 weeks on average.

Withdrawal timelines may depend on each patient’s history of Adderall use or Adderall abuse, as well as their overall health.

Initial Phase (24 Hours – 1 Week After Last Dose)

The initial or “crash” phase of Adderall withdrawal can last for about one week on average. The initial withdrawal phase often includes the most severe stimulant withdrawal symptoms, such as psychosis, intense cravings, and sleep problems.

The crash phase can be difficult for patients to endure without relapsing. A single dose of Adderall can eliminate symptoms, but prevents a successful detox.

Professional substance abuse treatment during the initial phase can be crucial for a patient’s outlook. During this phase, a patient’s detox program may be carefully managed. They may stay at a treatment center to increase supervision and reduce the chances of a relapse.

Protracted Phase (1 Week – 3+ Weeks)

After about one week, severe amphetamine withdrawal symptoms tend to diminish. Protracted withdrawal symptoms, such as persisting sleeping problems and increased appetite, may persist for about 3 weeks or longer.

Relapse can be less likely during the protracted phase, but patients may still experience discomfort and health problems for months after stopping.

Adderall Detox

Experts recommend patients check into an Adderall detox program as soon as withdrawal symptoms appear. Connecting a patient with medical professionals and addiction specialists can give them the resources they need to manage severe withdrawal symptoms.

An Adderall detox program may include medical supervision and medication to manage symptoms. Antidepressants may be given to stabilize serotonin and dopamine levels, and antihistamines may also be used.

If patients successfully complete the crash phase of withdrawal, they may continue to take medication to stabilize neurotransmitter levels in their body. Patients may also be recommended for further inpatient or outpatient Adderall addiction treatment programs for long-term care.

To find out if our outpatient substance use disorder treatment programs work for you or your loved one, please contact us today.