Coping With Adderall Crash: How To Manage The Comedown

Adderall is a stimulant medication that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Adderall abuse, however, can result in uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms known as a “crash” after first stopping use.

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Dr. Manish Mishra, MBBS

Medically Reviewed By: Manish Mishra, MBBS

on November 9, 2022

Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant that is a popular study drug among college students and in high-intensity work environments.

Like other prescription stimulants, Adderall increases a person’s focus, energy, alertness, and concentration. Unfortunately, Adderall also has a high potential for abuse and addiction.

A person who is addicted to Adderall is likely to find themselves in an uncomfortable position in which they frequently experience crashes and comedowns.

It is often the discomfort of the crash and comedown that keeps a person from being able to stop taking it once they have reached the point of Adderall addiction.

Fortunately, there are ways that a person can prepare in order to make the crash and comedown period more comfortable and manageable in order to avoid relapse.

What Are The Symptoms Of An Adderall Crash?

Adderall causes a rise in the levels of the neurotransmitters known as dopamine and norepinephrine. During an Adderall crash, the brain is reacting to a sudden depletion.

A crash can come on suddenly and begin a few hours after a person’s last dose. A crash can be particularly bad after a high dose of Adderall.

Symptoms of a crash include:

  • anxiety
  • depression
  • nausea
  • mood swings
  • paranoia
  • seizures
  • confusion
  • hallucinations
  • sweating
  • trouble sleeping
  • headaches

Ways To Cope With An Adderall Crash

There is no way to avoid an Adderall crash after extended or heavy use, but it can help to prepare and have certain items on hand to make the process more comfortable.

Nutritious Food

It is a common side effect of Adderall to experience a lack of appetite, which is why this drug is often abused for its potential to result in weight loss.

During an Adderall crash, a person may experience a sudden and severe increase in appetite. While they may crave sugary foods, a nutritious diet is truly the best choice during a crash.

Plenty Of Water

A person who is experiencing an Adderall crash may feel nausea to the point of vomiting, and it is important to to avoid dehydration.

Staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water is a great idea during an Adderall crash, as well as getting rest and trying to relax.

Other Common Side Effects Of Adderall Addiction

In addition to the crash and comedown period, Adderall prescription drug abuse may come with a host of side effects.

Some common side effects of Adderall misuse include:

  • cravings
  • body aches
  • suicidal thoughts
  • sleep disorders
  • high blood pressure
  • increased heart rate

Is An Adderall Crash The Same As Adderall Withdrawal?

An Adderall crash is not the same thing as withdrawal, although the two are closely related.

An Adderall crash is what happens when the drug first starts to wear off, and a person begins to feel agitated and have strong cravings to use.

Withdrawal occurs after a person has attempted to stay sober from Adderall use for an extended period of time. Symptoms of withdrawal from Adderall can last for weeks after the last dose.

Treatment Options For Adderall Addiction

Treatment options for an Adderall addiction may start with a period of medically monitored detox, after which a person may then enter either inpatient or outpatient treatment.

There are currently no medications approved to treat an Adderall addiction, but professional treatment can be beneficial to people who are experiencing co-occurring mental health disorders.

A healthcare professional may prescribe medications such as antidepressants or they may recommend supplements that can help with Adderall withdrawal symptoms.

Find Substance Use Treatment At Bedrock Recovery Center

At Bedrock Recovery Center, we understand how difficult it can be to live with a substance use disorder and how intimidating it can seem at times to ask for help.

Please know that you are not alone, and we are here any time you have questions or to help you or one of your loved ones get started at our accredited recovery center today.

  1. Medical News Today https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321492#adderall-effects
  2. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601234.html
  3. United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2007/011522s040lbl.pdf

Written by Bedrock Recovery Center Editorial Team

© 2024 Bedrock Recovery Center | All Rights Reserved

* This page does not provide medical advice.

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