It’s that dreaded time of the semester again – finals week - and as we struggle to cram months worth of material into our brains for four cumulative exams, it is tempting to take amphetamines, such as Adderall, in order to stay focused. When used as prescribed by a physician, Adderall counteracts symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) by increasing the body’s levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This boosts alertness, attention, and energy levels. In addition, it increases heart rate and blood flow to muscles. While these factors would certainly boost one’s motivation and focus while studying, it is important to consider the dangerous short-term and long-term consequences of amphetamine use and abuse. While Adderall energizes and invigorates its users, it also suppresses their appetite, causes restlessness, and can even result in serious cardiac problems. For those who abuse Adderall, the feelings of euphoria are similar to those experienced by cocaine users. However, once this high wears off, one may feel fatigued, depressed, and no longer able to stay focused. In the long-term, Adderall can potentially result in depression, hostility, and paranoia due to the high levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. Those who continuously take Adderall become dependent on the drug, resulting in both psychological and physical consequences. Someone with a psychological dependence on Adderall may experience headaches when they are on not able to attain the drug. Physical dependence occurs when one becomes accustomed to the high levels of dopamine in the brain, which triggers serious withdrawal symptoms, such as depression and fatigue. One that experiences physical dependence on Adderall requires increasingly higher doses of the drug in order to feel its same effects, increasing both its side effects and the risk of overdose. So, next time you feel like you just can’t focus, drink a cold glass of water or a cup of coffee. The harmful consequences of Adderall use and abuse on your brain are simply not worth it.
~Samantha Worth
3 Comments
10/2/2018 01:21:58 am
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The Slime Times is written by the Stress After Dark Creative Inquiry TeamScience isn't all white lab coats and ivory pillars, sometimes you just need to get slimy. Archives
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