The Dangers, Perks, and Side-Effects of Adderall

It is rumored if you sit in the library on any college campus during finals, someone will approach, and offer to sell you Adderall.  This is not far-fetched from the truth as most college students I know either use Adderall to study, or have in the past. National Public Radio cited a study that reported up to 25% of college students using Adderall in 2009. Two years later, I feel confident in assuming that number has increased.

Nick-named “Addy,” Adderall was originally intended to treat people with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder) or Narcolepsy.  However, it has gained enormous notoriety for being used in both the nightlife and academic scene.  Addy works wonders for these seemingly opposite activities because it keeps the individual endlessly energized and extremely focused. 

Adderall is composed of amphetamine salts that increase the dopamine and norepinephrine hormones in the brain, both of which are associated with attention and behavior.  Simultaneously, Adderall prevents these two hormones from being quickly absorbed back into the body, extending the period of alertness.
 
Before sampling this drug, read up on the pros and cons of this ongoing college craze.
           
Dangers:

• Do NOT take if you have any of the following health issues: history of addictive behavior in your family, cardiac problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, hardened arteries, overactive thyroid, glaucoma, allergies to either amphetamine or dextroamphetamine.
• Adderall is illegal if you are not prescribed!
• If you have unknown congenital defects Adderall can cause heart failure or death.
• May induce psychosis or mania.

Perks:

• Increased alertness
• Ability to concentrate for extended periods of time
• Eliminates the desire to sleep

 
Side-Effects:

• Since you are increasing the dopamine in your brain, your brain will need recovery time to replenish the dopamine supply.  This could lead to a depressive state after the drug has worn off.
• Agitation or nervousness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Headache
• Stomach pain
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty falling asleep