Is Adderall the Same Thing as Meth?

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