Author: Dan

Millions of people in the United States take prescription stimulant drugs to manage attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other conditions. Adderall is one of the most commonly prescribed prescription stimulant medications in the US.

Prescription stimulants like Adderall increase central nervous system (CNS) activity. They have similar effects to illicit stimulants like methamphetamine. Adderall and methamphetamine both have the potential for misuse and dependence. They also produce some of the same side effects. But what sets these drugs apart?

This article will explore the differences between Adderall and methamphetamine. You will learn:

• The effects and risks of Adderall
• The effects and dangers of Meth
• The differences between Adderall and meth
• How to recognize and treat stimulant misuse
• Where to find substance use disorder (SUD) treatment

If you or someone you love struggles with stimulant misuse or dependence, you are not alone. Contact the treatment specialists at Blue Star Recovery to learn about our holistic treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

What is Adderall?

Adderall is a prescription drug used to treat ADHD and other conditions. This prescription medication contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. These active ingredients stimulate central nervous system (CNS) activity,

Some ADHD medications, like Adderall, have the potential for misuse and physical dependence. Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it has a legitimate medical use and a risk of dependence.

People who take prescription Adderall are not at high risk for dependence. However, people who take it recreationally (without a prescription) or abuse it in other ways face an increased risk of unwanted side effects and dependence.

Some unwanted side effects of Adderall include:

• Headaches
• Mood changes
• Verbal or muscle tics
• Skin problems
• Slowed speech
• Dry mouth
• Weight loss
• Rapid heart rate
• Tremors
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Shortness of breath
• Hyperactivity
• Excessive talkativeness

Adderall misuse may cause significant changes in a person’s mood, appearance, behavior, and thinking. People who misuse Adderall may struggle to stop using it when they choose. Many people require SUD treatment and ongoing support to stop using Adderall after developing dependence.

What is Meth?

Meth is a common name for an illicit stimulant drug called methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is a synthetic drug that is most commonly found in a powder or solid form. Users ingest meth by inhaling, smoking, or swallowing it.

Meth is a potent stimulant that quickly crosses the blood-brain barrier. Users experience powerful stimulant effects, including:

• Euphoria
• Rapid heart rate
• Elevated blood pressure
• Increased energy

In addition to these effects, users may also experience unwanted side effects, including:

• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Aggression or violent behaviors
• Anxiety
• Paranoia
• Loss of coordination
• Memory issues
• Depression

Meth affects the brain and other bodily systems in significant ways. People who misuse meth may quickly develop tolerance (needing more to get the desired effects) and dependence.

People who misuse meth may face serious, long-term health complications, including:

• Severe damage to the sinuses and nasal passages
• Extreme weight loss
• Malnutrition
• Severe dental decay and other problems (“meth mouth”)
• Chronic runny nose
• Lung damage that affects breathing

It can be very challenging for people to stop using meth after developing dependence on it. Many people require intensive medical and mental health support to quit and avoid relapse.

What is the Difference Between Adderall and Meth?

Meth and Adderall are both stimulant drugs that increase CNS activity. Misusing these drugs can lead to tolerance and dependence.

Many people mistakenly believe that Adderall and meth are similar. The active ingredients in Adderall (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts) sound similar to methamphetamine. However, there are some critical differences between Adderall and meth.

Here is an overview of the differences between meth and Adderall.

Legal status

Methamphetamine is an illegal, synthetic stimulant. People create meth in illegal labs using household chemicals and medications. Meth production is unregulated, and it is nearly impossible to determine the safety or dosage of a single batch of meth.

Adderall is an FDA-approved prescription medication. It is produced in sterile laboratories using rigorous manufacturing practices to ensure safety and consistency. It is legal to use prescription meth under medical guidance and supervision.

Chemical structure

Meth and Adderall have different chemical structures. Adderall is “related” to methamphetamine, but differences in their structures affect how they work and their potential risks.

Purpose

Methamphetamine is an illegal stimulant drug with a high potential for misuse and dependence. It is dangerous and unregulated. People use methamphetamine recreationally.

Adderall is an FDA-approved prescription medication used to treat ADHD and other medical conditions. Adderall can relieve the symptoms of these conditions, allowing people to feel better and function more effectively.

Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about the differences between Adderall and meth or to explore our SUD treatment programs.

Treating Stimulant Misuse and Dependence

If you or someone you love struggles with stimulant misuse, seek treatment as quickly as possible. Treatment for stimulant misuse and dependence may include:

• Assessments and screenings
• Medication management
• Behavioral therapies
• Individual, group, and family counseling
• Relapse prevention education
• Holistic therapies, including exercise, nutrition support, mindfulness, and nature therapy
• Aftercare planning

Substance use disorder treatment programs are available at inpatient and outpatient levels of care. Contact the Blue Star Recovery treatment specialists to learn more about our programs or to determine which level of care is right for you.

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Neurocognitive, Autonomic, and Mood Effects of Adderall: A Pilot Study of Healthy College Students
2. JAMA Network: Methamphetamine Use, Methamphetamine Use Disorder, and Associated Overdose Deaths Among US Adults
3. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Methamphetamine
4. Taylor & Francis Online: A review of amphetamine extended release once-daily options for the management of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

Polysubstance use is a term used to describe misusing more than one substance at a time. For example, this could mean mixing alcohol and weed or other drug combinations like benzodiazepines and opioids. Unfortunately, engaging in polysubstance use increases your risk of experiencing a life-threatening overdose.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “In 2022, nearly half of drug overdose deaths involved multiple drugs.”[1]

One of the most notorious forms of polydrug use is called “speedballing.” When someone engages in this type of substance use, they mix a stimulant drug with an opioid. For example, a speedball might involve mixing cocaine and heroin or meth and fentanyl.

There are a variety of risks associated with this form of substance use, including cardiovascular problems, respiratory issues, substance use disorder, and fatal overdoses.

In this article, you will learn:

• What is speedballing?
• What are the effects of mixing stimulants and opioids?
• What are the risks of combining stimulants and opioids?
• What are the signs that indicate you need treatment for polysubstance use?

What is Speedballing?

Speedballing is a type of polysubstance use that involves mixing a stimulant and a depressant. Usually, people mix stimulants with opioids. Doing so can cause a potent high that leads to the development of a substance use disorder, heart attacks, mental health concerns, respiratory failure, and life-threatening overdoses.

Some people accidentally speedball in hopes of “canceling out the effects of one drug.” For example, if someone is too high on cocaine, they might consume a prescription opioid like hydrocodone to calm themselves down. Unfortunately, this only increases their high and puts them at risk of overdosing.

Stimulant drugs that might be used during a speedball include:[2]

• Cocaine
• Methamphetamine
• Crack cocaine
• Prescription stimulants like Adderall

Examples of opioid drugs used to speedball include:[2]

• Heroin
• Fentanyl
• Prescription opioids like hydrocodone, morphine, oxycodone, and more

The Effects of Combining Stimulants and Opioids

The effects you experience when mixing stimulants and opioids depend on what drugs you take. That said, you’ll usually experience the effects of both drugs at the same time. For example, the combination of cocaine and heroin can lead to increased energy and mental confusion or irregular heart rate, as cocaine causes a fast heartbeat and heroin causes it to slow down.

The effects of a speedball might include:

• Confusion or disorientation
• Blurry or double vision
• Dizziness or drowsiness and sedative effects
• Unsteadiness or coordination problems
• Anxiety and paranoia
• Slowed or fast breathing
• Increased heart rate, irregular heart rate, or arrhythmias
• Feelings of euphoria and pleasure
• Drastic changes in blood pressure

If you combine these drugs often, you will eventually develop a polysubstance use disorder. This means you’ll become physically and psychologically dependent on both drugs at the same time. Unfortunately, polysubstance use is incredibly dangerous, making it vital that you seek professional help.

What are the Risks of Speedballing?

Speedballing is never safe, as you are mixing stimulants with depressants. Doing this causes your brain and body to become confused. Stimulants speed things up, while depressants slow things down.

Because you are taking drugs with opposite effects, you could experience adverse symptoms related to your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and body temperature. You could experience a cardiovascular emergency, like arrhythmias or heart attacks.

The physical dangers of mixing stimulants and opioids include:[3]

• Strokes
• Heart attacks
• Seizures
• Respiratory depression
• Life-threatening overdoses
• Coma

According to a study, overdose deaths related to mixing stimulants and opioids skyrocketed from 187 in 1999 to 14,777 in 2020.[3]

You can also experience adverse mental health effects when combining these drugs. For example, you could experience intense anxiety, panic attacks, paranoia, mental confusion, disorientation, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Some people develop substance-induced psychosis when they speedball.

While speedballing causes an intense high, it is simply not worth it. Thankfully, substance use treatment programs can help you receive the skills and support you need to make a full recovery.

Signs You Need Polysubstance Use Disorder Treatment

Polysubstance use should always be treated by a professional substance use disorder treatment center. That said, sometimes it can be hard to recognize the signs that you need treatment.

The main signs that you need professional care for speedballing include:

• Having a hard time quitting or cutting back on stimulant and opioid use
• Spending a lot of time obtaining or using stimulants and opioids
• Experiencing urges or cravings to use both drugs at the same time
• Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Failing to meet responsibilities at home, school, or work
• Being unable to control how much or how often you combine stimulants and opioids
• Continuing to use stimulants and opioids despite facing social issues or physical and mental health problems
• Using speedballs in risky situations, such as while driving
• Needing to increase your dose of stimulants and opioids to experience the desired effect
• Dealing with withdrawal symptoms when you stop speedballing

If you notice 2 or more of the above-mentioned signs of a substance use disorder, you should seek professional help immediately. At Blue Star Recovery, we use evidence-based approaches for speedball treatment, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and relapse prevention planning.

Get Connected to a Top-Rated Substance Use Treatment Center

If you or a loved one regularly speedballs, you are suffering from a polysubstance use disorder. Blue Star Recovery is here to offer you the support and tools you need to achieve long-term recovery. At programs like Blue Star Recovery, you will receive a combination of personalized and evidence-based care to help you achieve long-term recovery.

Contact us today for more information on how we treat stimulant and opioid use disorders.

References:

1. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Polysubstance Use Facts
2. Mncourts.gov: “SPEEDBALLING”: MIXING STIMULANTS AND OPIOIDS
3. MDPI: Effect of Combined Methamphetamine and Oxycodone Use on the Synaptic Proteome in an In Vitro Model of Polysubstance Use

Heroin is an illegal and highly addictive opioid drug that causes effects like sedation, euphoria, low heart rate, and more. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 1.1 million people in the United States reported using heroin in 2021.[1]

Most people who use heroin inject the drug, however, it is possible to smoke and snort it as well. Any form of heroin use can lead to life-threatening overdoses, long-term physical health issues, and increased mental health symptoms. If you or a loved one uses heroin, you should seek help from a substance use treatment center.

It can be difficult to tell if someone you love is using heroin. That said, knowing what it looks like can help you determine if the drugs you found are, in fact, heroin. There are several different types of heroin, including a white powder, a black sticky substance, and a brownish powder.

You can also determine if your loved one is using heroin by looking for specific types of drug paraphernalia. Heroin users who inject it tend to have spoons, needles, syringes, and plastic baggies that have powdery residue on them. People who smoke or snort heroin might have rolled up dollar bills, straws, pipes, or aluminum foil.

In this article, you will learn:

• What do the different types of heroin look like?
• What drug paraphernalia is associated with heroin use?
• What are the signs of heroin use disorder?

Identifying Heroin: Knowing What the Different Types Look Like

There are three main types of heroin: white powder, black tar, and brown powder. Each type of heroin looks different from the others. If you find a powdery or sticky substance, you might be looking at heroin.

White Powder Heroin

White powder heroin originates from Mexico and South America. It is water-soluble and known for being highly potent. That said, it is usually adulterated by drug dealers, as this allows them to increase their profits.

White powder heroin can be fine or coarse, depending on whether there are adulterants in the substance. If it is fine, it is usually pure, which means it’s more potent. On the other hand, coarse white powder heroin could contain dangerous adulterants that could increase the risk of developing health issues.

Black Tar Heroin

Black tar heroin is predominantly produced in Mexico before it is smuggled into the United States. It has a solid and rock-like texture and is usually sticky, resembling tar. You can smoke, snort, and inject black tar heroin.

This form of heroin tends to be less pure than powder heroin because it contains a lot of adulterants and chemicals to create the black tar appearance. That said, it is incredibly dangerous to use and can lead to a heroin overdose.

Brown Powder Heroin

Brown powder heroin is white powder heroin that contains more adulterants. Because of this, it has a reputation for being less pure. Sometimes, brown powder heroin is created by crushing black tar heroin to make it easier to snort.

Because of its dark brown appearance and the fact that it often comes from Mexico, this type of heroin is referred to as “Mexican brown” on the street.

Identifying Heroin Paraphernalia

Heroin paraphernalia contains a range of items that are used to consume heroin. There is paraphernalia specific to injecting, snorting, and smoking heroin.

Common equipment and tools for using heroin include:

• Needles or Syringes – People use needles and syringes to inject heroin.
• Spoons or Bottle Caps – Spoons or bottle caps are used to hold powdered or tar heroin while it is being heated up to turn it into an injectable liquid.
• Cotton Balls – Cotton balls or similar materials are used as a filter when injecting heroin.
• Pipes – Glass or metal pipes might be used to smoke heroin.
• Aluminum Foil – Aluminum foil can be used in place of a pipe to smoke heroin.
• Straws or Dollar Bills – Straws or rolled-up dollar bills can be used to snort powdered heroin. Some people use straws to inhale heroin off of aluminum foil when smoking it.
• Small Plastic or Paper Baggies – You might find small plastic baggies that have powdery residue. Heroin is also sold in paper squares that have designs on them.

If you find these items in your loved one’s bedroom or belongings, they might be using heroin. Because heroin use can quickly lead to an overdose, you should always urge your loved one to seek professional help. Treatment programs can help your loved one overcome the withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting heroin.

Signs Your Loved One Needs Heroin Use Disorder Treatment

If your loved one is struggling with heroin use, you might be wondering how to tell if they need professional help. Any form of heroin use should be addressed by a substance use disorder treatment center.

The main signs of heroin use disorder include:[2]

• Being unable to control how much or how often you use heroin
• Spending a lot of time obtaining or using heroin
• Wanting to quit or cut back on heroin use but being unsuccessful
• Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities because of heroin use
• Failing to meet responsibilities at home, school, or work due to heroin use
• Experiencing social, physical, or mental health issues because of heroin use
• Using heroin in risky situations, such as while driving
• Experiencing urges or cravings to use heroin
• Needing to increase your dose of heroin to experience the desired effect
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop using heroin

If your loved one has two or more of the above-mentioned symptoms, they have a substance use disorder that requires professional treatment. At Blue Star Recovery, we offer a combination of personalized and evidence-based care, making it possible for your loved one to achieve long-term recovery.

Get Connected to a Heroin Treatment Center

If you or a loved one suffers from heroin use disorder, it’s time to seek professional help. Blue Star Recovery can offer the tools and support you need to achieve lifelong sobriety.

Contact us today for more information on our heroin treatment center.

References:

1. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): What is the Scope of Heroin Use in the United States 
2. Psychiatry Online: DSM-5 Criteria for Substance Use Disorders: Recommendations and Rationale

Adderall is a prescription stimulant medication used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other conditions. About one-third of adults with ADHD in the United States take Adderall and other prescription stimulants. These drugs have the potential for misuse and physical dependence.

Using Adderall differently than prescribed increases the risk of dangerous side effects and substance use disorder. This article will explore the risk of snorting Adderall and other forms of misuse. You will learn:

• The effects and risks of Adderall misuse
• The dangerous effects of snorting Adderall
• How to recognize Adderall misuse
• What to expect in Adderall misuse treatment
• Where to find treatment and recovery support

If you or someone you love struggles with stimulant misuse, you are not alone. Find treatment and recovery support at Blue Star Recovery. Our holistic approach to treatment empowers people as they work toward long-term recovery. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

What is Adderall?

Adderall is an FDA-approved prescription stimulant medication. It contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. These active ingredients increase central nervous system (CNS) activity, which can decrease the symptoms of ADHD and other conditions.

The Effects and Risks of Adderall Misuse

People may misuse Adderall for its stimulant effects. Surveys show that adolescents and young adults are the groups most likely to misuse Adderall and other stimulants. Some studies suggest as much as 60% of recreational stimulant use occurs among people between 18 and 25.

People may misuse Adderall in several ways, including:

• Taking larger doses than prescribed
• Taking doses of Adderall more often than prescribed
• Using Adderall for longer than prescribed
• Taking Adderall recreationally (without a prescription)

People may also ingest the drug differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting their pills.

Adderall misuse increases the risk of overdose and other serious complications. People who misuse Adderall must seek treatment to stop using it and develop the skills to prevent relapse.

Can You Snort Adderall?

Snorting Adderall is one form of misuse. Ingesting Adderall by crushing and snorting tablets allows more of this stimulant drug to reach the bloodstream. This can cause quicker and more intense stimulant effects.

Snorting Adderall puts people at higher risk of an overdose. Symptoms of an Adderall overdose include:

• Dangerously high blood pressure
• Confusion
• Panic
• Rapid breathing
• Increased energy and agitation
• Hallucinations
• Irregular heart rhythm
• Chest pain
• Paranoia
• Seizures
• Tremors
• Aggression

Some symptoms of an overdose can be life-threatening. People may lose consciousness or slip into a coma. If you or someone near you is exhibiting symptoms of an overdose, call 911 immediately.

All Adderall misuse has the potential to cause health problems. However, snorting Adderall has some unique risks, including:

• Dangerous weight loss
• New or worsening mental health symptoms
• Damage to the sinuses, septum, or nasal passages
• Increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues

People may also develop symptoms of physical dependence, including:

• Withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it
• Needing to use larger doses to get the desired effects (tolerance)
• Cravings for Adderall
• A loss of control over Adderall use

People who misuse Adderall or develop dependence typically require comprehensive treatment and ongoing support to quit using it.

The Signs of Adderall Misuse

Recognizing Adderall misuse is the first step in getting help to address it. Some common signs of Adderall misuse include:

• Snorting Adderall
• Taking Adderall without a prescription
• Running out of prescription Adderall sooner than they should
• Needing to take higher doses to get the effects they want
• Doing dishonest or illegal things to get money or Adderall
• Falling behind in responsibilities at home, work, or school
• Having withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it
• Experiencing new or worsening anxiety, panic, paranoia, or other mental health symptoms
• Quick weight loss
• Increased isolation
• Noticeable changes in appetite, energy level, sleep patterns, and other behaviors

People who become dependent on Adderall may continue to use it, even when it causes significant harm. People may not be able to choose to stop using it. Many require comprehensive treatment to stop and ongoing support to prevent a relapse.

Treating Adderall Misuse and Dependence

It can be challenging to overcome Adderall misuse or dependence. However, comprehensive treatment programs and ongoing recovery support can help people stop using Adderall and move forward.

Treatment for stimulant dependence may include:

• Assessments and screenings
• Behavioral therapies
• Individual, family, and group counseling
• Relapse prevention education
• Holistic therapies, such as nutrition counseling, creative expression, exercise, yoga, and more
• Aftercare planning

People receive comprehensive treatment to address the physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects of substance use. Contact Blue Star Recovery to learn more about what happens in treatment programs or to explore our programs.

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love lives with substance use disorder (SUD), you are not alone. Find the compassionate, comprehensive treatment you need at Blue Star Recovery. Contact our treatment specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnosis, Treatment, and Telehealth Use in Adults — National Center for Health Statistics Rapid Surveys System, United States, October–November 2023
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Adderall
3. National Institute of Health (NIH): Amphetamine
4. Oxford Academic: Efficacy of Adderall and methylphenidate in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a drug–placebo and drug–drug response curve analysis of a naturalistic study 
5. NIH: Comparison of the behavioral and cardiovascular effects of intranasal and oral d-amphetamine in healthy human subjects