The Dangers of Mixing Adderall and Alcohol

Alcohol and prescription meds don’t mix, but often those who are already misusing ADHD drugs or painkillers, taking them recreationally, find it easy to add alcohol into the equation. The risks are even greater when those indulging aren’t even adults, because their brains aren’t fully developed yet. Parents of kids taking ADHD drugs like Adderall are right to be concerned about their teens drinking. Mixing alcohol and Adderall is a potentially dangerous combination.

Adderall and other ADHD drugs can reduce the user’s ability to feel the effects of the alcohol so it’s important to be aware of how much you consume. Just because you don’t feel the alcohol affecting you, it still has the same power, making alcohol poisoning a very real concern.

ADHD Meds Abused

An interesting side effect for some who take Adderall as prescribed is that they report losing interest in consuming alcohol. In fact, one study performed at the Boston Hospital and the Harvard Medical School found that the use of medication to treat ADHD symptoms decreased the use of illicit drugs by 84 percent.

The problem is that many are using Adderall and Ritalin illegally, particularly on college campuses. Some college students turn to the meds as a way to increase their focus and pull all-nighters. They’re even resorting to crushing the pills and snorting them to get a faster high. Add to this the prevalence of alcohol on college campuses and it’s a recipe for disaster.

Adderall Addiction

If you or someone you love is battling an addiction or co-occurring disorder, call La Paloma at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.