The author, who is prescribed Adderall for ADHD, has experienced no side effects while getting tattoos. However, they have not tried it without their meds and have been curious about the potential side effects. They advise that you should inform your tattoo artist about any medications you are taking, as they can cause a wide range of side effects in people with and without ADHD.
Adderall can improve concentration and energy levels within an hour of taking a dose, but it is important to be cautious about taking painkillers and Ibuprofen capsules. These medications can increase the risk of heavier bleeding, which can negatively impact the tattoo process. Be aware of these sensations before getting tattooed to know what to expect and how to tell when pain isn’t typical.
Aspirin (Bayer) and ibuprofen (Advil) are off-limits 24 hours before your appointment, as they can thin your blood and cause more bleeding. Drinking alcohol or taking drugs the night before or while getting a tattoo is also advised. Adderall may be used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) to increase attention and decrease hyperactivity and impulsiveness, and may also improve alertness in people with sleep disorders like narcolepsy.
To ensure a safe tattoo experience, consult your medical team for advice on timing medication, muscle relaxants, and pain relief. It is recommended to stop taking Adderall (amphetamine salts) for at least 24 to 48 hours prior to laser hair removal to reduce the risk of potential side effects.
In conclusion, the author emphasizes the importance of understanding the potential side effects of Adderall and other medications before getting a tattoo. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable tattoo experience.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| Tattoo You? On Needles, Ink, and ADHD Sensitivities | Consult your medical team. Your doctor or psychiatrist will have advice on timing your medication, muscle relaxants, and pain relief like … | additudemag.com |
| Adderall and tattoos? – Glow Community | I got diagnosed with ADHD 3 weeks ago and have been prescribed adderall. Last month I had the first session of my tattoo, after 5 hours … | glowing.com |
| Adderall and getting a tattoo | No, Adderall will not help you get a tattoo. If you can’t get your first tattoo sober you don’t deserve one. | bluelight.org |
📹 Your Brain On Adderall – The Study Drug
Created by: Mitchell Moffit and Gregory Brown Written by: Tharsan Kana Illustrated by: Max Simmons Edited by: Sel Ghebrehiwot …
When Should You Not Get A Tattoo?
Before getting a tattoo, it's crucial to consult with your doctor if you have medical conditions like heart disease, allergies, diabetes, eczema, psoriasis, a weakened immune system, or bleeding issues. Those with keloids should also reconsider. Take your time to think things through, and avoid getting a tattoo under peer pressure or impulsively. Experts recommend considering where to get inked, as some locations are less painful than others. If you feel uncertain or fear potential regret, it's wise to wait and refrain from making hasty decisions.
Visiting tattoo shops and engaging with artists can provide valuable insights, especially if you avoid busy nights when they're slammed with customers. Open communication can help clarify any doubts you might have regarding the tattoo process. Moreover, there are specific situations when getting a tattoo should be avoided, such as when suffering from a contagious illness or while having a weakened immune system. Discuss any health concerns with your tattoo artist, as they can help evaluate the pros and cons of getting tattooed.
Getting a tattoo should never be a rushed decision due to its permanence. Key factors to consider before proceeding include your health conditions and emotional readiness. Avoid getting inked if you're drunk, high, pregnant, about to undergo surgery, post-surgery, sunburned, or simply feeling pressured. It’s essential to approach tattooing with awareness and readiness, as your circumstances and body may change over time.
It's advisable to steer clear of tattoos in areas that could be risky given your medical history, such as below the waist if you've experienced vascular damage. Additionally, allergic reactions may arise from tattoo inks. To ensure a safe experience, choose a reputable studio that prioritizes health and hygiene. Ultimately, the decision to get a tattoo should be made when you feel fully ready.
Is There Anyone Who Shouldn'T Get A Tattoo?
Before getting a tattoo, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor if you have medical issues like heart disease, allergies, diabetes, skin conditions (like eczema or psoriasis), a weak immune system, or a bleeding disorder. Individuals prone to keloids (excess scar tissue) should also reconsider tattooing. Personally, I don’t find anything meaningful enough to be permanently inked on my body, as I prefer my unmarked skin. While I respect others' choices to get tattoos, I maintain that I wouldn’t choose one for myself or my partner.
It's essential to reflect before deciding on a tattoo. Consider the significance of a design that resonates with who you are. Alternatively, those who are indecisive about their choices should pause before committing to an indelible mark. Key considerations against getting a tattoo include potential career limitations and societal judgments, as tattoos can still carry stigma despite growing acceptance.
It's vital not to cave in to peer pressure when contemplating a tattoo. Tattoos are permanent; thus, thorough contemplation is essential. Reasons against getting tattooed abound, particularly for those unprepared for the responsibilities of aftercare. Young individuals should be cautious, as their bodies are still developing, which might lead to distorted tattoos as they grow.
If you have experienced vascular damage or neuropathy, especially in the legs, avoid tattoos in those areas. Furthermore, getting inked while under the influence of alcohol or substances is ill-advised and can impair judgment. Those on anti-rejection medications following organ transplants must consult a doctor before proceeding, to avoid potential complications.
Lastly, be aware that a poor tattoo artist can lead to unsatisfactory results or even serious health risks, including infections and exposure to diseases like HIV/AIDS or Hepatitis C. Hence, careful consideration and preparation are paramount before deciding on a tattoo.
Does ADHD Disqualify You?
La Department of Defense (DoD) establece los estándares físicos y médicos para el servicio militar. Según el DoD, una persona con TDAH no es elegible para el servicio militar si tuvo un Programa Educativo Individual, un Plan 504 o adaptaciones laborales después de los 14 años. Aunque el TDAH no descalifica automáticamente a alguien para unirse, se requieren criterios específicos. Más de 41, 000 personas con TDAH sirven en las Fuerzas Armadas, lo que indica que el TDAH por sí solo no es un impedimento para el reclutamiento. Sin embargo, es fundamental que los interesados sean honestos sobre sus habilidades y desafíos personales, considerando si el entorno militar es el adecuado para ellos.
El proceso de alistamiento puede ser complicado y requiere compartir los registros médicos y de salud mental, lo que puede causar confusión sobre la elegibilidad. Según las pautas actualizadas en 2022 del DoD, el TDAH se considera una condición descalificante si se presentan ciertos factores junto a este trastorno. En general, el TDAH no es un impedimento automático para el servicio militar, pero es crucial demostrar disposición para adaptarse.
Si bien las condiciones de aprendizaje, como el TDA o el TDAH, se consideran complicadas y descalificantes, hay casos donde los solicitantes pueden ser aceptados si cumplen con ciertos requisitos. Es fundamental que quienes padezcan TDAH o trastornos de salud mental sepan que la política militar implica la descalificación por el uso de medicamentos diarios para condiciones crónicas. En resumen, aunque el TDAH no descalifica automáticamente a una persona, se deben seguir criterios y pautas particulares para el reclutamiento. Algunas ramas militares no descalifican automáticamente a quienes tienen TDAH, pero es esencial estar informado y preparado ante el proceso.
Can People With ADHD Get Tattoos?
Having Sensory Processing Disorder, ADHD, or chronic illnesses does not signify weakness; rather, it reflects the necessity to recognize one’s unique needs—much like requiring an inhaler for breathing. Similarly, muscle relaxants may be essential for individuals with ADHD to prevent involuntary muscle tension that could adversely affect tattooing.
People with ADHD can and do get tattoos, often as a means of symbolizing their acceptance and embrace of their neurodivergence. Tattoos might embody the internal battles faced by those with ADHD, such as impulsivity and restlessness. Nonetheless, it's crucial to acknowledge that impulsivity can lead to regrets over tattoos that once represented a fleeting moment, as personal identities can evolve significantly over time.
Research indicates that individuals with tattoos and piercings tend to exhibit more impulsive personality traits than their non-tattooed peers. Some studies draw connections between body modifications and mental health conditions like borderline and antisocial personality disorders, both of which have links to ADHD. Therefore, while the act of getting a tattoo can be seen as impulsive, it can also serve as a powerful personal statement, especially when relating to neurodiversity. Many individuals find empowerment and community through ADHD tattoos, which can also promote awareness of the condition.
For those considering a tattoo, especially individuals with ADHD, it’s vital to select a tattoo artist who understands and is sensitive to their specific needs. Managing the experience during a tattoo session—keeping in mind the potential challenges posed by ADHD—can make the process more enjoyable and fulfilling. Statistics suggest that a significant proportion—30% to 35%—of ADHD teenagers and young adults may choose to get tattoos, reflecting both a personal expression and a community connection.
In summary, while tattoos may embody impulsivity, for individuals with ADHD, they can also represent a meaningful journey of self-acceptance and community connection. Careful consideration and preparation can lead to positive experiences for those navigating tattoo decisions within the context of their diagnosis.
What Should You Avoid On Tattoo Day?
To ensure proper healing of a new tattoo, keep the tattooed area out of the sun and avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, rivers, or lakes during the healing process. When dressing the tattoo, some artists may use plastic wrap, which should remain on for 3-24 hours depending on advice given, while others may use Tegaderm, which can stay for 3-5 days. It's crucial to cover the tattoo with breathable, loose clothing to prevent irritation. After getting a tattoo, the artist typically applies petroleum jelly and a clear bandage, which must be maintained for optimal healing.
Caring for your tattoo properly is vital to prevent infection and maintain the tattoo's clarity and brightness, which can take up to two weeks or longer, depending on individual skin types. Avoid submerging your tattoo in water for 3-6 weeks; short showers are acceptable, but soaking in baths should be avoided. Additionally, refrain from alcohol intake for 24-48 hours before the tattooing session and limit caffeine to reduce blood thinning.
Direct sunlight can adversely affect the healing process and fade the tattoo's ink, so it’s best to avoid sun exposure completely and use sunscreen on fully healed tattoos. Tight clothing can cause irritation, so loose garments are preferable. It's essential to keep the tattoo clean and steer clear of harsh chemicals, dirt, and bacteria, and to refrain from using medicated creams like Savlon or Vaseline.
Moreover, certain foods should be avoided for optimal healing, including soft drinks, processed juices, fried foods, and fast food. For the first 3-4 weeks, maintain hydration and protect against sunburns and blood thinners to ensure the skin is well-prepared for the tattooing process and healing. Overall, proper aftercare significantly contributes to the longevity and appearance of the tattoo.
What Supplements Should You Not Take Before A Tattoo?
Before getting a tattoo, it's crucial to avoid certain medications and supplements that may increase bleeding. Specifically, you should refrain from taking Aspirin, Niacin, Vitamin E, or Advil/Ibuprofen for 48 hours prior to your procedure. Additionally, steer clear of Fish Oil, Prenatal Vitamins, and "Hair, Skin, Nail" supplements during this timeframe.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin should be avoided at all costs, as they can act as blood thinners and heighten the risk of excessive bleeding. It’s also advised not to consume alcohol in the day leading up to your tattoo; similar to NSAIDs, alcohol can thin your blood. Other supplements containing ginkgo, garlic, ginseng, and additional Vitamin E should also be avoided two weeks before the procedure.
To better prepare your skin and reduce bleeding, focus on incorporating foods high in Vitamin K into your diet. Meanwhile, excessive dairy and salt can lead to skin bloating, so moderation is key. Zinc supplements may be beneficial for skin healing, while Vitamins A and C can support skin health and the immune system.
Proper hydration is essential, so drink plenty of water and consider bringing sugary snacks or drinks for energy during your session. It’s important to limit caffeine and alcohol intake as well, as they can impact your skin and overall experience.
In summary, to ensure a smoother tattooing experience with less risk of complications, avoid blood thinners, certain supplements, alcohol, and excessive dairy or salt before your appointment. Prepare your skin with the right nutrients and hydration, and consult your artist for any additional recommendations. Following these guidelines can significantly enhance your tattoo process and the integrity of your new artwork.
What Medications Affect Tattoo Healing?
Certain medications, including antibiotics and acne treatments, can heighten skin sensitivity and lead to unusual reactions, making it vital to understand their effects prior to getting a tattoo. Immunosuppressive medications, such as those for organ rejection, can hinder tattoo healing; consult your doctor beforehand. Corticosteroids, which are strong anti-inflammatories, may weaken the immune system critical for healing. Prolonged use, especially of topical forms, can thin the skin, increasing vulnerability to injury.
It's essential to recognize how different medications can influence the tattooing process. Blood thinners, for instance, can result in excessive bleeding, while immunosuppressants might delay healing times. Always inform your tattoo artist about any medications you're taking that could pose potential issues.
Some medications and conditions particularly warrant caution, including: blood thinners like warfarin or heparin, antibiotics, and corticosteroids. Avoiding medications that thin the blood, increase skin sensitivity, or those associated with immune rejection is advisable before getting a tattoo.
While it is possible to tattoo while on antibiotics, consulting with a healthcare provider and informing your tattoo artist is crucial. Among the most concerning medications are blood thinners and immunosuppressants, which may complicate both the tattoo process and healing. While antibiotics may not significantly hinder healing, medications like Isotretinoin can impair wound recovery post-tattooing. Overall, it’s recommended to seek a doctor's approval before proceeding with a tattoo, regardless of your health status.
How Much Should I Tip My Tattoo Artist?
La regla general para propinas a artistas de tatuajes es entre el 15 y el 20 por ciento del costo total del servicio, siendo 20 por ciento un estándar común y recomendable. Para diseños más personalizados o intrincados, es adecuado aumentar esta cifra. A menudo, los artistas de tatuajes arrendan un espacio en el estudio y pueden darle hasta el 50 por ciento de sus ganancias al dueño del local, lo que subraya la importancia de tipiar adecuadamente.
Aunque no existe un porcentaje fijo que seguir, muchos clientes tienden a propinar entre el 15 y el 25 por ciento del costo total del tatuaje, dependiendo de la calidad del trabajo y del servicio recibido. Por ejemplo, si el costo del tatuaje es de $150 por hora, una propina en el rango de $22. 50 a $37. 50 sería apropiada. Sin embargo, si el trabajo es considerable y el artista ha invertido un tiempo significativo, tipiar $75 a $125 puede ser una opción adecuada para mostrar agradecimiento.
Al final, el monto de la propina puede variar según el precio del tatuaje o el tamaño y detalle del arte. Es importante considerar la calidad del arte y el esfuerzo que el artista ha puesto para que la propina refleje el aprecio por su trabajo. En general, evitar propinas por debajo del 15 por ciento es aconsejable, pues un buen trabajo merece ser reconocido.
En resumen, la norma más aceptada es tipiar al menos un 20 por ciento del costo total. Si se realizó un tatuaje de $200, por ejemplo, una propina de $30 a $40 sería una manera de demostrar aprecio adecuado. También es útil tener a mano una "tabla de propinas" para facilitar los cálculos y asegurarse de que se está reconociendo el esfuerzo del artista adecuadamente. Propinar es una práctica común y una manera de mostrar gratitud hacia quienes nos brindan su arte.
What Should I Avoid Before Taking Adderall?
Acidic juices, particularly citrus juices like orange and grapefruit juice, can reduce the absorption of Adderall and should be avoided for one hour before dosing, during dosing, and one hour after taking the medication. Individuals aged 18 to 60, who are not on other medications or have no additional health conditions, may experience side effects such as insomnia, headaches, dry mouth, loss of appetite, nervousness, and nausea.
Adderall XR is a long-acting medication containing four different amphetamine salts and is primarily used for ADHD, where it enhances focus, attention, and reduces impulsivity. In those without ADHD, it may increase focus, alertness, and energy levels.
Consuming alcohol while taking Adderall can heighten the risk of heart issues. Many college students and young adults misuse stimulants like Adderall recreationally. Dizziness can indicate excessive dosage. Adderall should not be used if you or your child is currently on MAO inhibitors for depression or if there's an allergy to the medication. It is also contraindicated for individuals with high blood pressure, heart disease, overactive thyroid, or glaucoma. To mitigate withdrawal symptoms, a gradual dosage reduction may be advised by a healthcare provider, especially for long-term or high-dose users.
The FDA warns against Adderall use in patients with serious heart conditions. Even without existing heart problems, a consultation with a cardiologist is recommended before starting Adderall. Foods high in citric and ascorbic acids, like citrus fruits, vitamin C-rich juices, sodas, and preserved foods, should be avoided before and after taking the medication to enhance absorption. Additionally, it is essential to refrain from alcohol and recreational drugs while on Adderall.
This medication can interact negatively with certain drugs and supplements, including antacids and specific antidepressants, necessitating careful management of overall medication intake. Avoiding acidic foods and beverages, especially citrus, is vital for effective Adderall absorption.
📹 Tattoo DO’s & DONT’s: Weed & Painkillers
TATtalk is a podcast sponsored by Island TAT Evolve tattoo studio. We discuss different topics on tattooing, designs, and culture.
“Adderall is a growing problem” NO. Misuse and abuse of Adderall is a growing problem. This article is contributing to the stigma surrounding a medication that can really help people with ADHD lead more stable, fulfilled lives. If you’re going to focus on only the negative effects and abuse, say that. Don’t act like this is really a helpful, all-encompassing article about how the drug works as intended.
What we know as Adderall today was actually sold as Obetrol, a weight loss pill, but in the 90s was rebranded as Adderall to treat ADHD. This article glosses over a lot. As someone with ADHD myself, more could’ve been said about how it’s abuse has made legitimate treatment of ADHD less accessable. It’s getting harder and harder for people with ADHD to get prescribed medication or even be diagnosed for ADHD.
Took it for years and it helped so much. A couple of years ago I came off of it immediately (thinking there were side effects that actually were attributed to my birth control) and I didn’t have any dependency issues or withdrawal. It helped me so much and I’m so thankful to be able to take it again and feel like a normal student with decent attention.
Hey my ADHD peeps, “it’s basically meth” shouldn’t stop you from using the treatment that can actually help you, it effects our brains differently and can help us immensely. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) can kill you but that doesn’t stop us from drinking water (H2O). Don’t let this article scare you or your family into not treating your adhd. Try it for a while and see how you do, everyone reacts differently, and if it’s not for you then seek out other ways of treatment. Oh and drink some water and go to the bathroom, you probably forgot.
Something that needs to be added to the conversation is the perspective of those of us who need stimulants due to ADHD. I love that you said we need to protect people, I totally agree with that. Just remember that needs to include folks who are neurodivergant and need the medication, not just the neurotypical folks who are abusing it.
So if you have ADHD (like myself) and take Adderall (like myself) you’re saying I’m no better than a methhead? Sorry I just wanted to focus🤷🏽♀️🤦🏽♂️ edit: i (now 18f) have learned sooooo much about Adderalll and ADHD since i commented this and i am still very correct. Someone with ADHD isn’t comparable to a drug addict in the slightest. We don’t take the medication to get high, we take it so that our brains can function normally. we lack dopamine and serotonin and our brains aren’t properly stimulated like others. the medicine stimulates our brains allowing us to focus and have clarity while also helping with depression, anxiety, RSD, and many many more things that go hand-in-hand with adhd. this article is not only ignorant, but is STILL spreading misinformation and stigmatizing a very real mental illness and struggle for many people.
Literally took adderall for the first time today, I’m 25 and have had adhd my entire life. Never have I felt more at peace with a quiet mind, and able to focus and just relax than I ever before. Definitely not the feeling of a “high” from alc or weed, so I don’t see a need to abuse it, for those with an addictive personality. But feeling “normal” and seeing how literally 80% of the world lives their lives on easy mode is so life changing haha.
I’m really trying not to be all “offended by nothing”, but it kind of bothers me that they’re comparing it to Meth and not having clear disclaimers/wording about its affects. For someone with ADHD, it can be a live-changing medication that they need to function. There ARE significant improvements in cognitive tests for people with ADHD, but not for people without ADHD. They don’t make the clear distinction between someone with ADHD taking a therapeutic dose, and someone who is abusing. It only adds to the stigma of people with ADHD taking these medications 🙁
I’m deeply disappointed in ASAPScience for this article. There are some very informative points that need to be seriously discussed but “Because it’s meth”? There are people that genuinely need ADHD medication. As someone who falls into that catergory, I’m once again left feeling ashamed that I need medication to help me drive, help regulate my emotions, to help me be less impulsive. I’ve loved this website for a long time and I expected a whole lot more than this from it.
It’s not all about learning easier most the time, it’s more about motivation. You become much more motivated to get stuff done and focused on the task. You don’t do the Task better but your more motivated to start and more detail oriented. It’s not about absorbing the information, it’s about getting yourself to actually TRY and absorb it. With the same motivation levels Adderall doesn’t help…but most people aren’t super motivated to do monotonous assignments or study sessions hence the Adderall
That was a pretty inconclusive study mentioned, and article in general. 1. Sample size was way too small (32 people, really?) 2. The drug was administered to ONLY those who do NOT need it. (Equivalent to someone with 0.5% body fat taking diet pills, then wondering why they didn’t lose weight) 3. Many variables were not mentioned. (Such as; people who actually have ADHD, Age, Gender, length of time administered, release rates, dosage, etc.) 4. The fact that when some people take Adderall when they are not diagnosed with ADHD, the effects of the stimulant can be the opposite of those expected. 5. And much more You can do better than this AsapScience!! There is much more relevant research readily available, and I hope you decide to create a much more accurate article about a drug that you see as a generation-wide issue. …..Or maybe its just my lack of dopamine that causes me to keep researching, rather than stopping after finding one study and being happy with that……
during his last year of college, my cousin used to take adderall almost daily. he finished at the top of his class, got into one of the best universities in our country, acing their exam, and even got medals from math/cs olympiads. he went cold turkey but said that it wasn’t that bad apart from getting a bit fat because of increased apetite and mood swings here and there.
Thanks for putting out a article that harmfully stereotypes a medication making it more difficult (in a very small measure) for people who need stimulus medication, for their nuero divergences, that much harder to get. Saying it’s meth or “cousins” of meth is like saying a prescribed painkiller is similar to H…. Thanks.
Was diagnosed with ADD when I was 6, and have taken various medications for it for nearly 20 years now. I’m always fascinated by the chemical reaction in the brain, because whenever I’m medicated, i’m not nearly as personable or charismatic. Not once in my life have I thought about it using it recreationally…
You have showed a study that shows the effect on people without Adhd and using a low dose of the medication… Not the greatest example… And with how the public looks at people with ADHD… You guys aren’t making things better at all… I seriously expected muhh more of this… You haven’t talked about adverse effects, long term effects, dosage adjustment… Honestly the is much more to it than a 3 minute article… The science part is sadly getting weaker and weaker, this article looks like it was made for the clicks
Gotta love medication stigma. Adderall helps ADHD as well as many other ailments. Im narcoleptic and take stimulants to create an induced circadian rhythym. It would be great if the vid talked about all the benefits and disorders it helps at a prescribed dose, and talk about the dangers of overdosing seperately.
It’s frustrating to see so many people around me using medication like Adderall when they don’t actually need it. As someone with ADD I need my medication otherwise simple daily tasks don’t get done. It took me years for them to diagnose me since I wasn’t hyperactive and was quiet (and very confused) as a kid and teenager. It was hard to get a diagnosis and I ended getting mine so late in life because of everyone faking symptoms to get medication. I’ve been on Vyvanse for years and have recently noticed a lot of my friends going to the doctor for medication when they don’t need it. I hate when people abuse it because it affects my accessibility to it and people never take my diagnosis seriously.
I’m noticing a lot of comments here saying that key info is missing from this article, even as a summary it seems to be lacking in substance. I recently was diagnosed with ADHD(add subcategory) at 20 years old, but it was suggested by a teacher many years ago that I get checked for it when I was in 3rd year elementary school. I started vyvance yesterday and immediately noticed EVERYTHING changed. I’ve only just now come to understand that I’ve never once been able to truly focus and retain information like everyone else does. Day 2 of vyvance today at work and I’m functioning fully. My entire school career was shitty with average grades and it’s cause I never got treated properly for ADHD. I’m almost pissed, but I’m happy now that I’m finally on track. The relief is insane
I went to rehab earlier this year for abusing adderall. (Was on it for over 10 years, most days taking over 100 Mgs) It’s been a hell of a journey and I wish I never took it in the first place. Gained a lot of weight coming off of it, dealing with depressive symptoms, but slowly starting to feel like a human again. I still think about it all the time…
I used to always study last minute. Only the last minute stress was enough to make me able to focus. It was like that stress released some chemicals in my body that made me focus. But outside of that moment it was impossible to read books and notes until i started taking medication. For me it realu did change everything.
I was on Adderall for 8 years. I did the best I ever did in school while I was on it but I was literally a zombie. I had no emotion. I rarely talked. You’d be lucky to get a “hey” out of me. Sure it’s wonderful if you’re falling behind but if it’s changing the person you are and makes you feel empty as a person on it then don’t take it. I’ve been struggling with school since I got off it but I know emotionally I’m a much better person off it. I work hard at my job and try my absolute best to get my work done. In fact- It’s 10:16PM and I’m trying to get 10 assignments done and I randomly clicked on this article.
Thank you for stating what it actually does for someone with ADHD. I have friends who are not prescribed this who are not diagnosed with ADHD who take it and they keep telling me about all of these things that they are experiencing whereas for me it just feels like I can finally function normally in society specifically in my courses at University and keeping my home life on the right track and making sure everything gets done in a timely manner. otherwise I’m just putting the broccoli away in the bookshelf because I was thinking about a book I was reading while cooking dinner
Any drug can be abused. The idea with ADHD, you work with your therapist and doctor as you take it to help with ADHD and use practical means as well to elevate symptoms. Study tips alone do not help. I have had ADHD all my life and this medication has helped me a lot. You have to be your own advocate, educate yourself, and talk with your doctor on any changes you feel. This article was very misleading. I respect you guys for the work you do, but I suggest you make another article on the positives of the medication on ADHD and Epilepsy, cite other studies, and talk to people who use this medication to study and work. You guys can do better.
As someone with ADHD who has been on medication for many years, I would like to point out that although it is similar in chemical structure to meth, it is still very different, especially when it comes to dosage. I do understand that the abuse of Adderall and similar ADHD meds is an issue, however I believe you could of handled talking about this problem better, as you and many other nerotypical people covering it, barely touch on people with ADHD using these medications to help them. The problem with this is that treatment for ADHD and other mental disorders, especially medications is stigmatized for unknown reasons, and when people with a large influence like AsapSCIENCE talks about it in this way, it increases the stigma around stimulent medications, which can discourage people who need it to seek out treatment
Oxygen is more similar to ozone than amphetamine is to methamphetamine. Oxygen is essential to life, ozone is deadly. However, the comparison is meaningless, and saying oxygen is like ozone in a discussion of its physiology is misleading. Likewise, the way methamphetamine is discussed in this article is similarly shameful. The sentiment, “Amphetamine is bad because methamphetamine is bad!” isn’t at all scientific and potentially harmful. Regardless, methamphetamine itself isn’t inherently bad and has numerous medical applications. Levomethamphetamine, for example, is available over-the-counter as a nasal decongestant. The article takes advantage of the emotional and unscientific “meth is evil” meme to push its thesis rather than sticking to scientific evidence. Last I checked, this is AsapSCIENCE, not AsapSENSATIONALISM. (Maybe I’m being a little too harsh with that statement as, aside from the emotionally exploitive methamphetamine comparisons, the science presented in the rest of the article is pretty solid. I just can’t help but feel angry about obvious sophistry in an otherwise coherent article.)
I take adderall but I make sure to use it in moderation. Even though I have ADHD. I’ve learned to funtion at work without it and only use it when I’m off and need to focus on getting stuff done. If I’m just hanging out, I never take it. What this did is allow me to funtion way more effectively than I was before without making me rely on it. On average I probably only take 1-2 doses a week. Usually on my off days to focus on getting important stuff done
Umm don’t forget people do use the drug who are properly prescribed it. So yes there are a lot of abusers but please don’t think so black and white to think this means people with ADD fall in the same catagory. Also yes there are people with ADD who abuse it… But please don’t think so black and white that this means all people fall into the same category. Basically don’t be simple, cause life is complex.
But what if we actually have ADHD? Would taking Adderall over a long period of time still affect us negatively? I went off my medication for several years and now I’m having trouble focusing again, but the fear that doctors will suspect I’m abusing it is keeping me from asking about going back on it.
Currently not subscribed adderall but have taken it freely. I feel like ADHD is something ive struggled with for a longtime. I am the kind of person to say I’ve never resorted to anything to get stuff done. As I got older and my job/career got more demanding. I started resorting to adderall. It got me far and is getting me far today. It does help ADHD but yeah taking it often I couldn’t imagine. The come down is terrible and you can get hyperfocused
Well thanks a article that adds to the stigma of ADD/ADHD medication making it harder on students in the classroom with the actual illness to speak up and be taken seriously about their condition to teachers. Instead of informing subjectively, this article just points misconceptions and the effects for people who don’t need it. . Obviously the side effects are not worth it if you can be without it. All drugs have bad side effects, but some people can’t function in society properly without it, so they weigh out the bad.
If you’re someone with ADHD happening upon this article, looking for information about Adderall, please go somewhere else or talk to your psychiatrist. Stimulants are well-tested as supplements to the process of dealing with ADHD. Sleep, diet, exercise, therapy, and drugs are all important to the process. Don’t let fear keep you away from discovering a better you
I took adderall from 2004-2014 roughly. I was in middle school when i started and quit when i was in college. This was prescribed by doctors taking 30-80mg extended release daily. I was able to focus in school but it made me emotionless and uncaring. When I stopped taking it i didn’t feel much of a difference in my focus but i started having massive panic attacks daily. This is not anxiety but full panic disorder. its been about 5 years since ive stopped taking adderall but I still release high amounts of norepinephrine because i think my body developed on such high doses of adderall. I dont know for sure if adderall caused this life long disorder after not taking it but i just wanted to post about it. If anyone knows more please comment
it made me focused on too many things at once…but I wasn’t getting anything done. I would just switch back and forth on different tasks. I will say that I was actually able to finish a book without getting bored like I usually do. it suppressed my hunger and I lost a good bit of weight, which needed to happen anyways.
I expected better in this article. My main issue with the validity of this article is the fact that most of the argument was based on a “study” with only 32 people. Want more credible results? Try with an additional four groups with people that actually have ADHD, and use a sample size of 3200 instead. There are many substances and chemicals similar to meth, so using it as a scare tactic is misguided and baseless. This article didn’t even go into the actual chemical compounds that Adderall is composed of, or even compare Adderall to other medications in the same group such as Vyvanse and Concerta. You guys could’ve done better research on a website as big as this with as many resources you have.
It sucks how stigmatized it has become, for people who need it it’s a life saver and addiction in ADHD patients is very low. The reason it causes addiction in people who don’t need it is that they are boosting thier dopamine to an extremely unnatural level, and causes your brain to produce less dopamine to compensate, basically making you feel like you have ADHD.
Very misleading article. I spent too long avoiding treatment for my ADHD thanks to misinformation like this. Methamphetamine is a methlyated version of dextroamphetamine, making it lipid soluble. This makes it pass your blood brain barrier very quickly, and stay in your body longer. D-amphetamine also has a greater affinity to bind with dopamine receptors, while N-Methylamphetamine has a greater affinity for serotonin receptor sites. Those who stick to therapeutic amphetamine doses are unlikely to develop tolerances. And what little neurotoxicity is created from these doses is easily remedied with simple supplements like Magnesium, Vitamin C, and anti-oxidants. Shame on this stigma reinforcing website.
Heroin is the best drug for studying. If you take a dose that won’t make you nod. Mental alertness is not the issue. It’s the way the drug makes you feel. On heroin you have the will to do any task. This obviously applies to all opioids. But there is an issue with extremely high risk of physical and psychological addiction(as you all know), is getting good grades worth it? Opiates=Suffering.
I like how they didn’t even mention any studies done on people with adhd or give any concrete data to back the claims that adderall stops people from feeling. When dealing with mental health issues I find it hard to take these articles well when they quote 1 study of a short period and then make a big leap into opioid crisis.
I took adderall for the first time in years recently and read a 400 page book in under 12 hours. Which is very interesting and uncommon for me. Because I literally haven’t read a book in about a decade due to my difficulty reading. But I took this magic pill and and just crushed a whole novel faster than I’ve ever done before. By a long shot
I can’t believe you didn’t mention its use in narcolepsy even once. It’s really disappointing. I have narcolepsy w/ cataplexy, and CNS stimulants (like Adderall, Ritalin, Dexedrine, and yes, even Desoxyn sometimes) are very important in treating narcolepsy (and Idiopathic Hypersomnia). If you have narcolepsy or IH, the negatives of CNS stimulants are a bit less important… because having uncontrolled narcolepsy is much more dangerous! Multiple studies have shown that people with narcolepsy are more likely to die from accidents. Narcolepsy also causes another dangerous symptom: cataplexy, a sudden loss of muscle tone that is triggered by strong emotions, often positive ones. Cataplectic attacks can range from just mild face weakness, to head drops, and even to full-body collapses– all while still maintaining full consciousness. Narcolepsy and cataplexy are treated with another very surprising and “controversial” drug: sodium oxybate, also known as GHB. Yes, that GHB. Despite the “street drug” reputation and potential for abuse, the brand-name drugs (Xyrem & Xywav) are still first-line treatments for narcolepsy and cataplexy, because in the worst circumstances, this disorder can absolutely kill you. Focusing on only the negative parts of Adderall as the “study drug” and saying it’s “basically meth” is so wrong, especially as a science website. People who need stimulants already suffer the consequences of misinformation, and you shouldn’t be spreading that even more
People without ADHD misusing Adderall and other stimulant medications is making it very difficult to obtain for those who actually need it. It can take weeks just for the insurance company or pharmacy to approve a refill for it, what happens if you run out before then? So yeah, this isn’t a “look! I can use this to get high better on tests haha so useful!” type medication, it’s what people who are actually struggling need in order to function. So if you need something that will help you in education, find another way that doesn’t harm those who rely on these medications.
in adhd brains it’s common for the effects of depressant drugs and stimulant drugs to be reversed, Ritalin (even closer relative of meth) makes me calm and aware and that’s a big part in how it helps! That’s a big reason they’re less effective in neurotypical people! Kinda disappointed this wasnt mentioned as it’s very interesting and helped me understand my medication and brain better
Everyone that is complaining about adderall being compared to meth: doesn’t change the fact that it IS similar to meth. Look it up on drugs.com. In fact, meth is/was sometimes used for adhd. If you dont like it, stop taking it. But its still gonna be a drug that is closely related to meth.What you are all actually doing is feeding into a stigma about a drug, one that you are all taking but seem not to have researched on your own (or you would know this already)
For a normal person, in my opinion, moderate exercise, eating normally for your body and activity levels, and good sleep should be adequate. If you have to take something and have the foresight that it will be a mentally heavy week, drinking tea throughout the days of the week helps tremendously. There are chemicals in it that helps you stay active, focused, and relaxed at the same time. Namely, caffeine and l-theanine which are synergistic to each other. The best part of my recommendation, you can go to many grocery stores and buy a 300 count box of tea bags and it can last you a while for less than $5.
When you have ADHD it’s possible it can decrease other things. People with ADHD can also have anger issues, social anxiety, and depression. For me all 3 have been improved thanks to this medicine. My focus is better and I can actually pay attention when I’m on the phone and someone is talking to me in the room. It’s so nice!!
I took mixed amphetamine salts from age 6 to age 28. I also took other medication during those years. I still don’t know if it was an acquired neurological addiction or an imbalance of the mind that I was born with. One thing is for certain though, my emotional, mental, and physical health is detrimental at best without ADHD medication. I have just recently accepted that although other medications were not necessarily required for a healthy lifestyle in my case; methylphenidate or amphetamine are something I am practically lost without. It took me a long time to truly accept that personal truth. I hope to one day understand if it is a genetically inherited addiction going back to the 60 and even as far as the 30’s – or a product of my youth exposure as a means to imprison my generation. Both are equally possible in a society of contempt, complacency, and conformity (coerced and enforced by numerous bureautic institutions and societal practices).
Are used to be on a form of Adderall ( I have ADHD) but since I am no longer in school and have been slacking on starting collage they haven’t prescribed me anymore adderall, however I can say that taking caffeine pills have almost the same effect except the caffeine crash is pretty bad. I also never take more than half a pill in one go because your heart will feel like it’s going to beat out of your chest.
Yeah that’s kind of how I realized I was add was Adderall just made me feel balanced it actually slowed my brain down in many ways made me less apt to erratic distractible behavior and also helped with depression by just keeping me focused on the task ahead. It doesn’t necessarily make me feel wired or like anything too strange unless I go above a normal dosage but I take 10 mg and honestly it just turns off the distraction and the self-pity and just says do something about it I don’t want to have to need it to be normal and I don’t use it everyday but there are days when I don’t know what I would do without it
pls don’t antagonize adderall prescriptions!!! as someone who is neurodivergent (adhd and autism) it has helped me a LOT especially when it comes to overstimulation and meltdowns. My mind isn’t a jumbled mess anymore cause of adderall, and I cried taking it the first time because the voices in my head were gone. It was quiet. Calm. For me, adderall does NOT give the negative effects listed in this article and describing adderall as “meth” has caused me to avoid this medication for years. Please stop scaring people into thinking adderall is the issue when in reality it is DRUG ABUSE. It only makes it harder for people to get the treatment they need
I was the only one of my peers to not get accepted into college right out of high school. I was depressed when I started community college but determined . I started taking adderall and there was a complete turn around. My Ds and Cs started turning into straight As. And not only that I started working out and lost over a hundred pounds thanks to the extra energy. I also felt motivated to do lots of other things to improve my health. Less than a year later I got an acceptance letter from not one but BOTH of my dream schools. Fast forward ten years later, continuing my consumption of adderall and I’m more successful, healthier and accomplished than I ever thought I would be.
Ok d;ude, so I know back then you meant to play by the format and get your views, but this may or may not have to do with me not being able to get my meds…and it’s been hell; I’d have so much more to say beyond this regarding how I’m hurting, but this article being this old now I dont think it’d matter at all. You’ll never see this, but I hope that anyone who struggles the same, that you dont give up and that you stick out until you get support…
I’m taking my nursing entrance exam in april and without these I would have never finished my pre reqs/pre meds. Came out with a 3.5 gpa. Truth be told I didn’t really study that hard I could have finished with a 4.0 if I would have studied religiously. I would take addys and play guitar more than study ha.
I take 30mg adderall xr every morning (as per my prescription). If I take a day, 2 days, a week off I really don’t miss it. However, I don’t want to damage my natural dopamine production… Im 23, M, weigh almost 240 and I would say i’m on the healthier side of the spectrum. Id be curious to know if any of you experts recommend a break/ days off or something to protect my long term dopamine production.
I have mild adhd, i can do intelectual tasks but its hard, i have to read the same page of the book twice or thrice because i drift away while reading, the best analogy that i can think of is driving a car with bad wheel alignment, you can’t just go straight, the car drifts to one side. Some days that im tired i can barely pay attention to people talking to me. My prescription is for vyvanse 30mg, which is released slowly, it’s like turbocharging my brain, but it’s not all nice and dandy, twice it induced me a panic attack(which is terrifying), so i try to live without taking the meds unless i really need to.
I have ADHD and take adderal so all I got to say is that is the reason why I’m able to get all of my schoolwork done before 3:00 pm and still get As and also able to run an eBay dropshipping store and clean my entire room in 10 mins and not eat a crap ton of food so basically what im saying is if you have ADHD use it 5 days a week and if you don’t we’ll just try not to get yourself addicted to it
I hate the word “adhd” me, my father, and my brother have it severely. I genuinely am almost certain it was primarily induced by environmental factors, its an enormous storyand sequence of wild shit that has happened over the years, but its almost certain that our dopamine deficiencies are a result of lifestyles, events, and other factors, and of course to some degree there may be genetic disposition. Not entirely sure, but i feel like adhd is stigmatized now and the dopamine deficiency part has gotten lost in context. For anyone who genuinely struggles with it, i feel for you and dont feel alone. It has contributed to alot of depression, and even with treatment it still takes alot of trial, effort, and involvement in getting myself into a consistent functioning state
If anyone happens to see this and can’t access ADHD/primary psychiatric care: I was undiagnosed till 6 months ago (ironically after graduating college) when I started online appointments on the circle medical app. Tbh this sounds like a sponsored message but on Adderall (with as many breaks as possible) I’m just a better, happier, more focused and present person. It’s kind of disgusting to think of all the things I could have done had I gotten care earlier in life. Highly recommend giving it a shot and reading up on effective use (Adderall makes it easier to break habits and reinforce new ones).
Seems to me like the public policy implications behind scientist affirming what many students know and have known for years to be true would be dire on society-at-large. As a result of seemingly dire consequences, rather than say, “Yep! It helps you study harder and get shit done.” it’s better public policy to obfuscate and argue why it “may” not be as beneficial as believed and elevate the harmful effects.
Framing adderall as “basically meth” is what stigmatizes getting treatment for people with adhd. For those of us with adhd, taking a stimulant helps us to just barely function NORMALLY. It’s frustrating that we need this extra crutch to get by in our society and people are taking it to get ahead. The tone of this entire article was looking down on taking adderall, which makes people who have adhd feel like they’re doing something wrong by taking needed medication. We don’t talk this way about non-mental health medications, like drugs that help your heart or lungs function better.
I’m very disappointed that you did not clarify that it is not abuse of you are prescribed Adderall for ADHD. This type of article will 100% prevent people from getting the treatment they need. As a person with ADHD, it is hard to believe that it is addictive for someone who has ADHD when we can go days or entire weeks forgetting to take it and only realizing when we notice we are not functioning well in the world that is set up for neurotypical people.
Please, I’m LITERALLY BEGGING YOU if you don’t have ADHD please don’t abuse the medication we need to function! After its abuse in the US Australia have put inconceivably strict guidelines in place to access the meds and the psychs that can prescribe it won’t because of the stigma. I has taken me 4 years, $7550, an ekg, blood test, drug test, chest x-ray and 72 referrals to get access any kind of adhd medication with an ongoing monthly appointment cost of $910/30mins. I’m literally the most unassuming 22yr old female that has never taken a drug before, had straight a’s and for fun reads non fiction & goes on picnics like ur treated like a drug addict for no reason. We literally need it for basic functioning & it manages my chronic illness by regulating the norepinephrine, without it I’m in hospital. I was going to Denmark next month for 6 months and Japan for the next 6 to study on prestigious scholarships that I gave back yesterday & I just canceled my flights because in Japan its illegal and in Denmark their is no access to it, without it I literally can not function. So yeah I just discovered that the life of travel I planned for myself is impossible now so it would be great if u guys could just stop using it to get high in the club and compensate for ur lack of intelligence. If its ‘basically meth’ then JUST DO METH & leave us alone.
It’s nothing short of a national tragedy the amount of kids forced into addiction by well meaning parents!! I’m mentoring an 8 year old girl from my church who has emotional and behavioral problems. She is woken up an hour before she gets up each day. Given a mixture of pills she goes back to sleep. One of the pills is 80 milligrams of Adderall!! It just horrifies me that this 8 year old child who weighs about 70lbs takes this drug before breakfast! And although she doesn’t improve they keep giving it to her! She barely eats. And when I ask her if she’s hungry she says my belly is growling but I don’t feel hungry:(( and her mom pops more pills in her mouth to make her sleep! :(((
I took adderoll all through high school it worked bcs high school is super structured and classes are timed in 45- hour increments. In college adderoll was worse bcs I didn’t have around 7 hours of sleep which is what I need to not feel really tired. Adderoll made my concentration worse in college and I’m much better off without it.
I used to abuse adderall and vyvanse everyday for years, I don’t have adhd but i would take upwards of 200mg a day and actually lost my mind. Reality was warped, I went days without sleep and couldnt control my emotions. Granted I was taking WAY too much and killing myself slowly but I do not recommend this drug unless you’re prescribed it
I have epilepsy. In ‘08, a friend of a friend who has ADHD and took Adderrall was doing my hair one night. We weren’t very good friends just knew each other through my best friend. She offered me 2 of her pills and I was a dumbass and took both. I had a grand mal seizure. She was stupid too and just called the last person I texted! I ended up going home with a dude I was seeing at the time. 🙄 I did meth before too in my 20’s and I had a seizure from that. 😞 I was very dumb.