Snorting Adderall XR | Effects & Dangers Of Crushing Pills For Insufflation

Adderall XR (the extended-release version of immediate release Adderall) is a stimulant prescription drug that contains the active ingredients amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. 

This central nervous system (CNS) stimulant treats symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Adderall XR affects the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, stimulating the CNS. Crushing the extended-release Adderall XR will end the time-release mechanism, resulting in a person receiving a large amount of the stimulant at once.

When crushed into a powder and snorted through a straw or form of paraphernalia, serious side effects, including nosebleeds, intensified side effects, and an increased risk of overdose, may occur. 

The insufflation of Adderall XR is a form of drug abuse that can lead to life-threatening dangers.

Effects Of Snorting Adderall XR

According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Adderall XR is a Schedule II controlled substance. This means it has a high potential for abuse that can lead to psychological or physical dependence.

Unfortunately, college students trying to cram for a test and those seeking to lose weight may turn to Adderall abuse as a way to take a shortcut for their goals, whether it be to lose weight or pass tests. Abusing the drug in this manner may create severe side effects.

Heightened Side Effects

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Adderall XR may create various side effects. The common side effects of the drug can be heightened due to the route of transmission.

When snorting Adderall XR, the drug’s effects will happen quickly and may consist of:

• feelings of euphoria
• headache
• dry mouth
• changes in mood
• increased alertness
• weight loss
• difficulty sleeping
• stomach pain
• high blood pressure
• paranoia

Withdrawal Symptoms

Those who abruptly stop Adderall XR may experience withdrawal symptoms due to long-term drug use. Some of the symptoms of Adderall XR withdrawal may include:

• fluctuations in heart rate
• cravings for the drug
• difficulty sleeping
• chest pain
• fluctuations in high blood pressure
• fatigue
• depression

Dangers Of Snorting Adderall XR

Those participating in Adderall abuse may have a greater risk of overdose, and snorting Adderall can lead to other serious health concerns.

Damage To Nasal Passageways

Continuous use of Adderall XR by insufflation can create damage to the sinuses. Not only can smell be impacted, a number of other serious problems can occur such as:

• persistent nosebleeds
• a chronic runny nose
• damage to the mucous membranes
• chronic sinusitis
• a deviated septum
• frequent congestion
• bacterial infections

Adderall XR Overdose

Those who snort Adderall XR may have a greater risk of suffering from an overdose, which can be life-threatening. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), some of the symptoms of an Adderall overdose may include:

• heart attack
• fluctuations in body temperature
• psychosis or hallucinations
• tremors
• panic states
• muscle weakness
• confusion
• serotonin syndrome
• seizures
• hallucinations
• shortness of breath
• coma

Adderall Addiction Treatment Options

Whether you’re struggling with excessive Adderall use or participating in other types of drug abuse, consider treatment at Ark Behavioral Health. 

At our network of treatment centers, we offer specialized programs which consist of various inpatient, detox, and outpatient services. Speak with one of our healthcare workers today to learn which treatment option may be right for you.