Prescription Drug Abuse: The Social Acceptance of Adderall

Morphine, heroin, cocaine, and Adderall. Four drugs all classified as class II narcotics, i.e. highly addictive drugs with a high potential for abuse, but still possess certain medical benefits. But while morphine, heroine, and cocaine are all well known for their dangers, Adderall is hardly considered to be a drug. Why has Adderall become so socially accepted to use, despite its classification?

From media depictions of Adderall to simply the increased availability of it, Adderall has become a socially accepted drug of choice to the point where it is not even considered to be a drug. One of the main characters on the hit show Teen Wolf is shown overdosing on it constantly, with little or no negative side effects. Additionally, with an increasing number of people diagnosed with ADHD, the amount of people using the drug for actual medical purposes, along with the availability of the drug, has increased significantly.

Some even consider those diagnosed with ADHD to be lucky, as they have easier access to the drug. But ADHD is an actual disorder that people struggle with. While ADHD definitely should not be looked down upon or stigmatized, it also should not be undermined by the widespread abuse of its prescription drugs. Adderall is meant to help people focus that need the help focusing. It is not meant to help to cram for a test or to get a high.

Despite the increased widespread use, few people ever actually look into what Adderall actually is and the potential negative side effects that follow its use. And while Adderall is certainly not as dangerous as morphine, heroin, or cocaine, there are serious risks to the abuse of Adderall.

Adderall is an addictive drug that many people actually go to rehab for, notably Lindsay Lohan. Some effects of the abuse of Adderall include euphoria, increased alertness, dry mouth, increased blood pressure and heart rate, weight loss, and risk of dependency. These side effects are not to be taken lightly, as they actually coincide with the effects of crystal meth, though not as potent. However, an overdose of Adderall can actually prove to be fatal, resulting in cardiac arrest or severe mental defects.

While Adderall is a highly effective drug for those it is prescribed to, it is not a drug meant for recreational use. Adderall is a narcotic. The risks from abuse are very real, potentially leading to addiction and side effects that may prove to be terminal.