In what ways do stimulants like Adderall alter the chemistry of the brain?

Neurotransmitter system abnormalities that result in reduced dopamine and norepinephrine (also known as noradrenaline) levels in ADHD brains are most likely the etiology of ADHD.1.Adderall and other stimulant drugs raise norepinephrine and dopamine levels, which helps reduce symptoms of ADHD like impulsivity, distractibility, and emotional reactivity. In the brains of ADHD patients, stimulants raise norepinephrine and dopamine levels. Lower levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, two crucial neurotransmitters that communicate with many body and brain regions, are found in ADHD brains. Dopamine aids with motivation, focus, and goal-directed behavior and is a component of the brain’s reward system.

Norepinephrine affects mood, memory, and attentiveness

Neurotransmitters are typically taken up by transporter proteins and reabsorbed back into the cell after conveying a message. In order to keep stimulant drugs active for longer, these transporters are inhibited in the process of eliminating dopamine and norepinephrine molecules Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that amphetamine-based drugs like Adderall cause the action of dopamine transporters to be reversed, increasing dopamine release. Curious about the brain of an ADHD person? See our in-depth analysis of ADHD’s neuroanatomy. Levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine are the enantiomers of amphetamine. Enantiomers of levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine exist. This indicates that their chemical structures are mirror reflections of one another despite having identical components. Psychostimulants, both of them: By increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels, which are important for motivation, pleasure, and focus, they stimulate central nervous system (CNS) activity. Levoamphetamine is not as powerful as dextroamphetamine.4

Enantiomers of Adderall function well together

The combination of these two enantiomers is Adderall: Salts containing 25% levoamphetamine and 75% dextroamphetamine. The two amphetamines work better together because they intensify each other’s effects, producing a greater and more prolonged response.

What physical and mental effects does Adderall have?

Effects on the mind and emotions

Not only is dopamine a “happiness chemical.” It has a direct impact on various brain functions, including reward reactions. This is why people with  symptoms of ADHD experience difficulties in their daily lives due to dopamine system instability. Elevated dopamine levels have been linked to improved mood, enhanced motivation, and improved emotional regulation. Norepinephrine aids with mood, memory, and sleep regulation while boosting alertness and attentiveness.

Mental agility

Adderall stimulates the cognitive abilities of ADHD sufferers by increasing the quantity of neurotransmitters in the brain, allowing them to function temporarily at a “normal” level.

Advantages of Adderall

The dosage and pre-existing circumstances of each person determine how much of an effect they experience.

Positive outcomes for those with ADHD generally include:

steadiness of mood

Increased awareness

Enhanced concentration

Reduced hyperactivity

enhanced executive abilities, such as:5.

Working memory

Cognitive adaptability 

Control of attention

Impulsivity management

Adverse consequences of Adderall

Additionally, using Adderall may have some negative side effects, such as:Six

Anxiety

Anxiety

Slurred speech

When the effects of the drug wear off, people experience a “Adderall crash,” also known as medication rebound. Seldom occurring but more severe side effects include convulsions and hallucinations. Adderall may also make comorbid anxiety symptoms worse in those who have it. Adderall doesn’t usually make tics or tic disorders worse, but it can in certain situations.

Physical consequences

Adderall helps people who are suffering with ADHD to  focus better so they can complete physical tasks more quickly and accurately. The cardiovascular and respiratory systems are impacted by Adderall. Similar to other stimulants, Adderall narrows blood vessels, raising heart rate and blood pressure. Other Adderall physical side effects include:

Diminish your hunger

Lack of sleep

Headaches

Gnashing of teeth

Pain in the bladder, pain when urinating, or murky or bloody pee

Side or lower back pain

The diarrhea

Vomiting or feeling queasy

Does Adderall suit you well?

Since Adderall is a stimulant drug, not everyone should use it. Your doctor and you will decide whether to take Adderall together, taking into account any pre-existing issues or worries you may have. Adderall may be helpful for those with anxiety or depression, or it may exacerbate some symptoms. A person with diabetes may not benefit from Adderall because it can also alter blood glucose levels, which can increase energy levels. Due to its physical effects, Adderall may make some adults with pre-existing problems more susceptible to heart attacks and strokes. You might not want to take Adderall if you already have a heart or lung disease. Non-stimulant ADHD drugs may be a good substitute for those who suffer from anxiety or cardiac issues. To learn more about how certain medications affect you, you might also wish to look into pharmacogenetics. Drug abuse of Adderall is common (mostly by non-ADHDers or at non-prescribed doses). It has a documented high risk of addiction, and continued usage can result in dependency. A doctor may advise against taking Adderall if the patient has a history of substance abuse disorders. It is best to consult a medical professional to determine whether you might benefit from alternative treatment if you encounter any of the side effects listed in this article or any others that are not. Find out more about the typical and uncommon adverse effects of various ADHD drugs here.