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The Dangers of Snorting Adderall: Risks and Side Effects

  • Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC
  • Modified:
  • Reading Time: 12 minutes
  • Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC
  • Last Update:
  • Reading Time: 12 minutes

Can you snort Adderall? While some individuals might consider this method for quicker effects, it’s essential to understand the risks and side effects associated with snorting Adderall.

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An estimated 8.7 million adult Americans struggle with ADHD, which stands for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Among the many signs of ADHD include impulsivity, hyperactivity, and difficulty focusing. If not treated, this disorder can worsen. It may make it hard for a person to maintain important social connections or keep a job.

Doctors often prescribe Adderall, a stimulant, to treat ADHD. Unfortunately, people frequently abuse this medication, sometimes through nasal inhalation (snorting), leading to severe adverse effects and health hazards.

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FDA Approval & Formulations of Adderall

What is Adderall?

In 1996, the Drug and Food Administration (DFA) approved the use of Adderall in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The drug combines two strong stimulants, dextroamphetamine and amphetamine.

It works by increasing norepinephrine and dopamine levels in the brain. This helps to reduce impulsiveness and improve attention and concentration. Adderall is also helpful for treating narcolepsy. This sleep disorder causes strong urges to sleep and excessive daytime drowsiness.

Adderall is available in two formulations: Adderall IR (immediate release) and Adderall XR (extended release). Both formulations target the same diseases, but they differ in how they release their ingredients and how long they work.

The release methods of Adderall XR and IR differ; XR has a slower effect, whereas IR has a faster onset. Both XR and IR work well for ADHD. However, XR is best for taking once a day. In contrast, IR is better for a flexible, slow-dose schedule.

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Risks & Dangers

Can You Snort Adderall?

While some individuals still do it, snorting Adderall is not the recommended method of consumption. The risks are severe when snorted.

Snoring Adderall can lead to several problems. It raises the risk of overdose and nasal tube injury. It can also cause issues from using fillers and binders that are not meant for the nose.

Snorting is a popular method of medication administration, particularly among young adults, despite the apparent risks. They usually do it to speed up the process of becoming high or to get a more potent high.

Aside from snorting, some individuals also inject the substance (against their doctor’s consent), while others choose to smoke it. Unfortunately, many American college students prefer snorting prescription stimulants like Adderall, known as the study drug. This method is the second most common way to take it after swallowing.

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Short-Term & Long-Term Effects

What Are the Effects of Snorting Adderall?

Irrespective of how you consume Adderall, the drug can produce several physical and mental side effects that can take a toll on every aspect of your life.

How Does Snorting Adderall Affect the Body?

When you snort the drug, it exacerbates the many damaging effects of this substance on your body remarkably. When administered this way, the drug’s ingredients circumvent the digestive system. It can result in rapid and profound absorption, with various short- and long-term effects.

What Are the Short-Term Effects of Snorting Adderall?

The immediate symptoms observed upon initiating the Adderall snort are many; the common ones include:

  • Recurrent nosebleeds.
  • Difficulty swallowing.
  • An accelerated pulse, potentially leading to cardiovascular risks.
  • Recurrent sinusitis.
  • Runny nose.
  • Nasal septum injury.
  • Nasal crusting.
  • Induction of anxiety, characterized by restlessness and unease, exacerbating any pre-existing mental health issues.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Snorting Adderall?

Snorting Adderall exerts significant stress on the cardiovascular system and the CNS, particularly with extended use. Ironically, it can cause several symptoms that the drug was meant to help. These include impulsive behavior and trouble focusing on one task for a long time. Prolonged Adderall snorting can lead to various effects, such as the following:

  • Cardiovascular Disease: An increased heart rate and higher blood pressure can raise the risk of heart problems. These problems include chronic chest pain, arrhythmias, and, in serious cases, a heart attack.
  • Respiratory Complications: Snorting may inflict considerable damage to the nasal passages. As a result, this area is at risk of developing persistent inflammation and infections. Because of this lung damage, you risk developing illnesses like pneumonia or chronic bronchitis.
  • Inhalation of Contaminants: Snorting may deliver toxic chemicals (such as drug contaminants) straight into the lungs, worsening respiratory conditions.
  • Dependency and Lethal Intoxication: Snorting increases the feeling of euphoria. This raises the chance of abuse and larger doses. As a result, the risk of overdose goes up. An overdose can cause serious heart and brain problems. This may even lead to death.
  • Psychiatric Disorders: Prolonged use disturbs the equilibrium of neurotransmitters in the brain. This could result in feelings of anxiety, depression, and maybe psychosis. Studies have demonstrated that mental health disorders heighten the risk of self-harm or suicidal behaviors.
  • Organ Impairment: Inhaling the drug can put stress on the liver and kidneys. They work hard to process and remove the chemical. Prolonged stress on these organs may result in liver disease or renal failure, both of which may be fatal.
  • Infections: Injury to the nasal passages will result in exposed sores and wounds. This makes it easier for microorganisms to enter and spread diseases. Chronic infections may progress to a systemic level, resulting in sepsis, a disease that may be life-threatening.

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Risks & Alternatives for ADHD Management

What Are the Risks of Snorting Adderall?

Stimulants like Adderall can be risky, no matter how they are used. However, snorting them makes the negative effects much worse. Snorting Adderall puts a lot of this drug into your body.

This can raise the risk of health problems like:

  • Cardiac arrest.
  • Chronic runny nose.
  • Liver damage.
  • Seizures.
  • Addiction and fatal overdoses.

Can Snorting Adderall Lead to Addiction?

Yes! You can develop an addiction to Adderall, irrespective of the intake method, including snorting.

When a drug addiction develops, the user feels a strong urge to take the drug. This happens even when the drug causes negative effects. Dependence will progressively evolve over time.

Dependency happens when the body craves Adderall. This craving makes it hard to function until the next dose is taken.

People with substance dependence may face various physical and mental challenges. These challenges are called withdrawal symptoms when they try to cut down or stop using.

Tolerance frequently coexists with addiction and dependency. People who snort Adderall risk developing a tolerance to the drug. This means they will need higher doses to feel the same pleasure as before.

Can Snorting Adderall Cause Overdose?

Yes. Adderall overdose is possible. Overdosing on Adderall is a real risk when snorting or inhaling the drug. Serious consequences, such as brain damage, coma, and even death, can result from an overdose.

In this country, the risk of taking excessive psychostimulant drugs, such as Adderall, is sharply increasing. There is no set dose that will cause a fatal overdose for everyone. However, several factors affect the risk and the amount of Adderall needed to cause an overdose:

  • Age.
  • Whether it was prescribed or not.
  • The dosage.
  • The exact type of drug (IR or XR).
  • If other substances like alcohol or illicit and prescribed medications have also been consumed or not.

Can Snorting Adderall Cause Respiratory Problems?

Yes. Coughing and dyspnea are just two of the many respiratory issues that might arise from snorting Adderall powder.

Can Snorting Adderall Cause Heart Problems?

Snorting a drug causes it to enter the circulation more quickly. This immediately raises blood pressure and heart rate. Ultimately, this may result in hypertension, increasing the risk of myocardial infarctions and cerebrovascular accidents. Additionally, stimulants such as Adderall may constrict blood vessels, so exerting additional stress on the cardiovascular system.

Can Snorting Adderall Cause Nasal Damage?

The nasal mucosa facilitates the rapid penetration of substances administered in liquid, aerosol, or powdered forms. Snorting Adderall makes its effects start faster. This is because it skips the stomach and liver. In these organs, normal digestion can reduce how well the drug works.

Chronic intranasal drug intake, such as Adderall, can cause irreversible nasal damage. The nasal cavity was not designed for powder inhalation. Snorting Adderall can lead to nasal and lung infections. It also damages the mucus membrane in the nose.

Prolonged intranasal drug use can result in perforations of the septum, palate, or oral cavity roof. The passageway in the nose leads to the lungs. If it gets damaged, it can cause serious problems in the body.

The nose purifies and modifies the air you inhale. If the nose fails to function adequately, the air inhaled into the lungs becomes detrimental to health.

The contaminants introduced to the Adderall powders to augment its high effects can likewise pose health risks. These contaminants often comprise:

  • Caffeine.
  • Boric acid.
  • Laxatives.
  • Creatine.
  • Talc powder.
  • Powdered detergents.
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What Are the Safer Ways to Use Adderall?

To use Adderall safely, read the medication guidebook your doctor or pharmacist gave you before you begin taking it. Consult your family doctor or pharmacist if you require any further clarification.

Administer this medication orally with or without meals as your physician prescribes, often 1 to 3 times daily. People usually take the initial dose after waking up early in the morning. Following your doctor’s instructions, take additional doses at 4 to 6 hours at regular intervals. Administering this drug late in the afternoon may cause sleeplessness.

Your physician may modify your dosage to determine the optimal amount for you. Adhere meticulously to your physician’s directives. For maximum effect, take this medicine as prescribed. To remember it, try taking it at the same time(s) every day.

What Are the Alternatives to Snorting Adderall?

Living with ADHD can be tough. People with ADHD often seek new ways to improve their focus and manage their symptoms. Instead of snorting Adderall, there are plenty of healthier and safer options.

An all-encompassing strategy for addressing the issue is necessary. Many effective strategies include changing certain behaviors, therapy, healthy meals, and other medications or supplements. These can help improve your quality of life and boost your focus if you have ADHD. Let’s explore some safer techniques and approaches to ADHD management that will protect your health.

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What Are the Other Medications for ADHD?

Not everybody who grapples with ADHD will require a dose of Adderall. If Adderall is not suitable for you, the doctor you see may suggest other substitute drugs for ADHD. Examples are:

  • Focalin XR (dexmethylphenidate).
  • Concerta, Ritalin (methylphenidate).
  • Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine).

Other viable options include:

Citicoline

Citicoline is a drug-based compound that mirrors a natural counterpart to the phospholipid phosphatidylcholine. Choline is a head group component of the phospholipid family called phosphatidylcholines (PC). Either egg yolk or soybeans are used as a source.

Phospholipids facilitate optimal cognitive function and may assist in the repair of brain injury. Citicoline was developed into a medication in Japan to help stroke victims recover.

A 2014 scientific review found that citicoline supplements may help treat brain conditions. These include glaucoma and certain types of cognitive impairment. It may help in easing ADHD symptoms.

In certain places, citicoline is available only via prescription. In the US, it is marketed as a dietary supplement.

Methionine

Methionine, an essential amino acid, is vital for neurotransmitter production in the brain. Supplements containing its active form, S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe), have been used to help reduce symptoms of depressive disorders and ADHD. In 1990, a big four-week trial showed that 75% of adults with ADHD improved when they took SAMe pills.

Magnesium and Vitamin B-6

Vitamin B-6 works well when combined with the mineral magnesium to regulate neurotransmitter levels in the central nervous system. Vitamin B-6 helps make serotonin, a neurotransmitter important for mood control and feelings of calm.

In a preliminary trial, physicians administered vitamin B-6 and a magnesium supplement to 40 young people diagnosed with ADHD.

The scientists observed that all the youngsters exhibited reduced symptoms shortly after eight weeks. The improvement was in hyperactivity, aggression, and mental focus. However, the research noted that symptoms reemerged a few weeks after the cessation of the supplements.

GABA Supplements

GABA (Gamma-amino-butyric acid) is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter that modulates the nervous system’s excitability and helps diminish levels of excitement and hyperactivity. A 2016 study found that GABA supplements can help reduce ADHD symptoms. The results were good for both adults and children.

Here are a few natural supplements that could enhance your memory and focus if you or a loved one is grappling with ADHD:

  • Gingko biloba. 
  • Fish oil. 
  • Flax seed.
  • Mint. 
  • Rosemary.
  • Sesame seeds
  • Cocoa seed. 
  • Saffron

In addition to stimulant drugs like amphetamine and methylphenidate, there are non-stimulant alternatives for ADHD management. Stimulants are often given to elevate neurotransmitter levels that facilitate attention and focus.

Non-stimulant drugs can be very helpful for people who cannot tolerate stimulants. They are also good for those who want to avoid them or find that stimulants do not work. The popular medications without stimulant components include:

  • Atomoxetine.
  • Clonidine.
  • Guanfacine.
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Are There Natural Alternatives to Adderall?

Some people find that adjusting their way of life helps alleviate the symptoms of ADHD.

This may involve:

Getting Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is important for everyone, especially for those with ADHD. Lack of sleep can make symptoms worse.

The body needs enough sleep to make dopamine and norepinephrine. Melatonin is a natural substance that helps improve sleep. It may also reduce the symptoms of ADHD.

Physical activity

Exercise alone may be the most effective method for elevating both norepinephrine and dopamine levels. Exercise can enhance circulation, helping deliver norepinephrine to the central nervous system and thus alleviating ADHD symptoms.

Psychosocial Interventions

Medical treatments can help with ADHD. However, it’s important to include non-drug therapies in your daily routine. These therapies can improve and manage your symptoms.

These can improve and manage your symptoms. These may encompass interventions such as:

  • Psychotherapy.
  • Exposure therapy.
  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
  • Strategies such as accommodations in the workplace.
  • Mindfulness-oriented practices or coaching.

Expect that a non-drug approach won’t completely replace medication. Many people with ADHD need both to live fulfilling lives.

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Treatment for Adderall Addiction at Rolling Hills

Substance use disorders could advance rapidly and become chronic and problematic without even realizing it. It can sometimes make someone who uses addictive substances like Adderall feel helpless.

The good news is that professional help and treatment options are available. Rolling Hills Recovery Center (RHRC) treats drug use disorders. It also addresses related mental health issues. Both are handled at the same time.

RHRC offers many treatment alternatives for Adderall addiction. Contact us now to consult with a trained addiction specialist and get more insight into the rehab process.

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Written By:

Geoffrey Andaria

Geoffrey Andaria mental health writer at rolling hills recovery center
Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Mental Health Writer

About Author:

Geoffrey Andaria is an experienced mental health content writer and editor. With a B.A. in English and Journalism, Geoffrey is highly educated in freelance articles and research. Having taken courses on social work, Geoffrey is adamant about providing valuable and educational information to individuals affected by mental health and the disease of addiction.

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr. Carl Williams Ph.D., LCADC

Carl Williams, medical content reviewer at rolling hills recovery center
Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Expert Contributor

About Reviewer:

Dr. Williams presently serves on the board of Directors for two non-profit service organizations. He holds a Master’s degree in Human Services from Lincoln University, Philadelphia, Pa, and a Ph.D. with a concentration in Clinical Psychology from Union Institute and University. In Cincinnati, Ohio. He is licensed to practice addictions counseling in both New Jersey and Connecticut and has a pending application as a practicing Psychologist in New Jersey.

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