How Long Does Withdrawal From Adderall Last?
Withdrawal from Adderall can often be painful and uncomfortable, especially if you’ve been using the drug for an extended period of time. While there are several addiction treatments that can help ease or eliminate Adderall withdrawal symptoms, it helps to know what to expect before quitting.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction to Adderall or another substance, understand that help is available and nearby. Call our 24/7 confidential helpline at 888-602-1971(Who Answers?) to speak with an addiction treatment counselor about nearby detox and rehab options.
Understanding Adderall Withdrawal
Adderall is commonly prescribed to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, and works by increasing energy and concentration levels. When you suddenly stop taking Adderall, your body goes into withdrawal and experiences adverse effects that can be opposite from those caused by the drug. For instance, those with narcolepsy who suddenly quit Adderall may experience daytime sleepiness and fatigue at its most severe.
Lack of motivation is a common Adderall withdrawal symptom.
Common Adderall withdrawal symptoms:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Lack of motivation
- Increase in appetite
- Loss of sex drive
- Disorientation / confusion
- Panic attacks
Length of Adderall Withdrawal
The amount of time it takes for you to fully withdraw from Adderall depends on several factors. These factors include the length of time you’ve been using Adderall, the dosage amount, and the frequency at which you’ve been taking the drug. Withdrawal from Adderall can last as little as five days for short-term users, to four weeks or longer for heavy, long-term users.
The duration of withdrawal also depends on whether you take the instant- or extended-release version of Adderall. Those who use instant-release Adderall can often overcome physical dependency and withdrawal sooner than those who use extended-release Adderall, which stays in the body for a longer period of time.
Days One to Three
During your first three days of Adderall withdrawal, you may experience fatigue and depression as your dopamine levels try to rebalance without the drug. This phase is commonly known as the “crash,” which is how Adderall withdrawal is described by recovering addicts.
Days Three to Five
On days three through five, you may start experiencing additional withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, nightmares, and intense headaches. Withdrawal symptoms are normally at their worst and most intense from days three to five.
Days Five to Seven
Withdrawal symptoms begin to dissipate for most former Adderall users between days five and seven. You may feel less depressed, while still feeling moody and irritable. Most former Adderall users report feeling better about themselves emotionally and physically during this withdrawal phase.
Weeks One to Four
If your Adderall withdrawal symptoms haven’t gone away by day seven after quitting, expect them to gradually dissipate through weeks one to four. If you’ve been using Adderall for at least one year and have a high tolerance to the drug, you may experience withdrawal symptoms for up to four weeks after quitting.
Don’t let your fear of Adderall withdrawal symptoms prevent you from quitting and seeking help. Call our 24/7 confidential helpline at 888-602-1971(Who Answers?) to learn more about withdrawal from Adderall, and to speak with an addiction counselor about your treatment options.
