Adderall: Amphetamine and Drug News Essays

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Ralph Waldo Emerson said “concentration is the secret to strength;” the use of a drug, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, commonly known as Adderall, was created to tap into this strength Emerson spoke of. Those diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have trouble finding that concentration, therefore, the drug Adderall provides them with the opportunity to focus. However, this strength of concentration isn’t yielded without some noted side effects—the debate between Adderall being a secret to strength of concentration or harmful short-term fix that can have long lasting effects is created. One side of the debate feels that Adderall is a break through for the disorder, while the other side thinks it is extremely harmful to ones health; both sides have valid reasons and empirical evidence to support their views. The following paragraphs will divulge into the explanations for each view in hopes to better inform and educate. First, the historical background and description of what Adderall is will lay the groundwork on investigating this debate. Adderall was created in 1996 by Shire Pharmaceuticals to assist patents that suffer from ADHD and also insomnia. ADHD is a condition that involves difficulty paying attention, sitting still, and controlling behavior. These symptoms must be presented before the age of seven and also affect work, school, or social life in a negative way to qualify as ADHD (Monson). Adderall increase the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These are neurotransmitters, which transmit signals from one section of the brain to the next. That is how your brain makes you think or act in certain ways. According to wordIQ, Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant composed of four amphetamine salts: amphetamine aspartate, amphetamine sulfate, dextroamphetamine saccharate, and dextroamphetamine sulfate. These four component salts are metabolized at different rates, making its effects smoother, with softer highs and lows, than those of other treatments for the same disorders. The drug comes in various forms such as instant release tablets, or extended release capsules. Both forms come in different dosages that your doctor prescribes depending on the level of your disorder. Although Adderall sounds like a miracle drug that can treat ADHD and create concentration that many strive for, there are many negative side effects that accompany its use. Research done by the American Academy of Child Adolescent Psychiatry shows that 37.1% of the 262 patients tested on reported a side effect of anorexia (loss of appetite). Reports have stated complaints that Adderall caused an upset stomach and nausea. These symptoms can cause weight loss or vomiting. These effects may negate those diagnosed with ADHD to decline Adderall because it makes them feel sick. Adderall has also been known to temporary stunt growth. On a more serious level the medication could make one have suicidal thoughts, seizures, fainting, and depression. Having any of these thoughts or reactions as a child or an adult can be dangerous and detrimental to ones future. Side effects to this serious effect are rare but should not be taken lightly. On a side note, if any of these side effects are experienced personally, consult a health care provider immediately. Furthering the danger of this drug, presently, there is no way for a physician to know whether or not one utilizing Adderall will suffer from any of these side effects. The worst side effect of Adderall is dependence. Prescription drugs can be extremely addictive and if abused, very dangerous. In 2003, approximately 15 million Americans reported using prescription drugs for non-medical reasons at least once during the year (Monson and Schoenstad). This number is continuously growing and Adderall is one of the main prescription drugs being abused. Similar to crystal meth, Adderall is an amphetamine drug, which is also classified as an “upper” or
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