Many people take prescription medications to treat mental health conditions. While most psychiatric medications are non-habit-forming, some of them are frequently used and can lead to addiction. For example, both Adderall and Xanax have a potential for abuse and addiction.
Xanax (alprazolam) is a prescription benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety conditions like panic disorder and some sleeping disorders. On the other hand, Adderall is a stimulant that doctors prescribe to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While it is possible to use them without developing an addiction, using them in any manner other than prescribed can lead to a substance use disorder.
Both substances are prescribed by a doctor, so you might not think twice before taking them at the same time. Unfortunately, combining Adderall and Xanax can increase the risk of overdose, addiction, and injury, while decreasing the effectiveness of both medications.
What you will learn:
- What Adderall is
- What Xanax is
- What are the risks of mixing Adderall and Xanax
What is Adderall?
Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant medication that is used to treat ADHD. By increasing activity in the CNS, it can lead to lessened impulsivity and increased focus among people with the condition. However, if someone without ADHD takes Adderall, they might experience a high similar to that of cocaine or methamphetamine.
The side effects of Adderall may include:[1]
- Nervousness or anxiety
- Headaches
- Changes in sex drive or ability
- Painful menstrual symptoms
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Increased energy and focus
Adderall causes side effects like increased heart rate, energy, and feelings of euphoria, so many people abuse it. It is common for college students to misuse Adderall to stay up late studying or partying. According to Johns Hopkins University, 60% of Adderall abuse occurred among young adults aged 18 to 25.[2]
What is Xanax?
Xanax (alprazolam) is a central nervous system depressant and is classified as a benzodiazepine. Doctors prescribe it to treat anxiety conditions and sleep disorders like insomnia. While Xanax helps manage these illnesses, it is only intended for short-term use because of the risk of addiction.
The side effects of alprazolam may include:[3]
- Dizziness and drowsiness
- Tiredness or sedation
- Insomnia
- Memory issues
- Coordination problems
- Slurred speech and blurry vision
- Trouble concentrating
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Increased sweating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Appetite or weight changes
- Decreased mental alertness
It is common for people to abuse Xanax, as it causes mind-altering effects like euphoria and drowsiness. Unfortunately, Xanax abuse can lead to addiction. If you or a loved one suffers from alprazolam addiction, a drug rehab center can help you regain control over your life.
What are the Dangers of Mixing Xanax and Adderall?
If you are tempted to combine Xanax and Adderall to experience a high, you should reconsider. Mixing these substances can lead to a variety of health issues. Additionally, if you are taking one to treat a mental health condition, mixing it with the other can lead to a decrease in effectiveness.
The dangers of mixing Adderall and Xanax include:
Decreased Effectiveness
Xanax decreases abnormal activity in your brain to lessen your symptoms of anxiety. On the other hand, Adderall has opposite effects, as it works to increase activity in the central nervous system. As a result, taking Adderall in combination with Xanax can make the medication less effective for your anxiety.
Risk of Addiction
Both Xanax and Adderall are known as drugs of abuse. Mixing them can make you more likely to develop an addiction to both drugs.
Mixing stimulants and depressants is known as “speedballing.” While speedballing was originally intended to represent mixing heroin and cocaine, Xanax and Adderall can cause similar effects.
Increased Injuries
Mixing Adderall and Xanax can lead to an increased risk of injuries. Once you start mixing Xanax with Adderall, you might not notice how severe the depressant effects of Xanax are because of the increased energy caused by Adderall. Since you are unable to recognize how intoxicated you are, you are more likely to make decisions that end in injuries. For example, you could try driving a car and end up crashing.
Overdose
Lastly, people who combine Xanax and Adderall might take too much of these substances because the effects of each drug can mask the effects of the other. They may continue to increase the dose because they are unable to tell how intoxicated they are. As a result, they could experience a life-threatening overdose.
Symptoms of a Xanax overdose might include CNS and respiratory depression. In contrast, an Adderall overdose can lead to heart attack and stroke. If you notice the symptoms of a Xanax or Adderall overdose, you should contact 911 immediately for emergency medical services.
Find Help for Xanax and Adderall Abuse
If you or a loved one regularly combines Xanax and Adderall, you could be struggling with addiction. Thankfully, drug rehab programs like the Carolina Center for Recovery can provide the tools and support you need to achieve long-term recovery.
Contact us today for more information on our addiction treatment programs.
References:
- Medline Plus: Dextroamphetamine and Amphetamine
- Johns Hopkins University: Adderall abuse on the rise among young adults, Johns Hopkins study suggests
- The National Library of Medicine (NLM): Alprazolam