How Long Does Adderall Stay in Your System?

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

Some people misuse Adderall by taking it differently than prescribed or using it recreationally. Misusing Adderall can lead to physical dependence. People who become dependent on Adderall typically require treatment and ongoing support to stop using it. 

This article will explore how long Adderall stays in the body after you stop taking it. 

• How Adderall works
• Adderall’s side effects
• What happens during Adderall withdrawal
• How long drug tests may detect Adderall
• Where to find Adderall dependence treatment

If you or someone you love struggles with Adderall misuse, you are not alone. Blue Star Recovery offers comprehensive, compassionate substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. Contact our intake team to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake assessment.

What is Adderall?

Adderall and Adderall XR are prescription stimulant drugs containing a mixture of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Doctors may prescribe Adderall to help patients manage the symptoms of ADHD and other conditions. 

Adderall stimulates activity in the central nervous system (CNS). In people living with ADHD, increased CNS activity can reduce symptoms of this condition, including:

• Poor concentration
• Agitation
• Difficulty maintaining focus

People with ADHD who take Adderall may be able to maintain attention and finish tasks more effectively. These improvements can lead to better daily functioning.

Some people take Adderall recreationally (without a prescription) for its stimulant effects. This is most common among adolescents, college students, and young adults.

People who do not have ADHD may experience side effects when taking it, including:

• Elevated energy
• Better concentration
• Ability to sustain attention for longer periods

People may misuse Adderall to maintain focus while studying or to increase athletic performance. However, misusing Adderall can have serious short and long-term effects. 

If you or a loved one struggles with Adderall misuse, seek treatment as soon as possible. Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about your treatment options. 

Side Effects of Adderall Misuse

People who misuse regular or extended-release versions of Adderall may have unwanted side effects or complications. This is more common among people who take higher doses of the drug than prescribed. Sometimes, the side effects of Adderall may be dangerous. 

Common side effects of Adderall misuse include:

• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Stomach pain
• Mood changes
• Anxiety
• Breathing problems
• Slowed speech
• Numbness in the arms and legs
• Seizures
• Insomnia

Misusing Adderall increases the risk of unwanted or dangerous side effects. People may also develop tolerance or physical dependence after prolonged misuse. 

It is crucial to get help if you misuse Adderall. People who take prescription Adderall should discuss any new or worsening side effects they experience. 

Understanding Adderall Withdrawal

People who develop a physical dependence on Adderall typically experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it. This can make it hard to stop using Adderall for good.

Common Adderall withdrawal symptoms include:

• Mood swings
• Aggression
• Anxiety
• Weight gain
• Poor concentration
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Panic attacks
• Body aches
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts

These symptoms can vary depending on the dosage and the amount of time someone has misused Adderall. Symptoms occur as the body eliminates Adderall and other substances. They can also continue long after a drug is no longer present in the body.

How Long Does Adderall Stay in Your System?

Several factors can affect how long Adderall stays in your body. Factors such as your body weight and composition, age, general health, and others can influence how long it takes to eliminate Adderall from your body. 

Drug tests can detect Adderall in different bodily systems. Here is an overview of how long drug tests may detect Adderall.

Urine tests

Urine testing is the most common form of drug screening in the country because it is inexpensive and non-invasive. This form of testing can detect Adderall in urine for up to 96 hours after your last dose.

Saliva tests

Saliva testing has a shorter detection window than urine testing. Adderall may appear on a saliva test for up to two days after your last dose.

Blood tests

Your body begins to metabolize Adderall as soon as it reaches the bloodstream. Metabolizing Adderall creates byproducts that remain in the blood for up to 50 hours after your last dose.

Hair tests

Hair testing is uncommon but has the longest detection window of any type of drug testing. Hair tests may detect Adderall for up to 90 days after your last dose.

If you are concerned about Adderall appearing on a drug test, it may be a sign that you need professional treatment to stop. Comprehensive SUD treatment typically includes medical care, emotional support, and education to help you overcome substance use. A treatment plan might consist of medically-supported detox programs, mental health treatment, counseling, relapse prevention education, holistic therapies, and more. 

Substance use disorder is treatable. Get the help you need and deserve as soon as you recognize the signs of misuse and dependence. The sooner you seek treatment, the sooner you can start working toward the healthy future you want.

Find Substance Use Disorder Treatment Now

Overcoming Adderall dependence can be challenging, but receiving the right treatment can help you do it. Contact the specialists at Blue Star Recovery to learn more about our treatment and recovery support programs. Contact us to learn more about our treatment facility or to schedule an intake appointment.

References:

1. Taylor & Francis Online: A review of amphetamine extended release once-daily options for the management of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder
2. National Institute of Health (NIH): Neurocognitive, Autonomic, and Mood Effects of Adderall: A Pilot Study of Healthy College Students
3. NIH: Amphetamine Positive Urine Toxicology Screen Secondary to Atomoxetine
4. NIH: Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine