Adderall and Adderall XR Withdrawal
Adderall is available in two similar but distinct products: short-acting Adderall and long-acting Adderall XR. Short-acting Adderall peaks in the body after about three hours, while long-acting Adderall XR peaks after about seven hours.
Despite the differences in how long they last in the body, there is little data available on whether the withdrawal experience differs between the two drugs. It is possible that short-acting Adderall may carry a higher risk of withdrawal symptoms than its longer-acting counterpart. However, without studies to compare the two drugs, it is impossible to know for sure.
Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms can occur if someone abruptly stops Adderall, especially if they have been taking a high dose of the drug for a long period of time. Common Adderall withdrawal symptoms include:
- Agitation or irritability
- Cravings to take more of the drug
- Feeling more tired than normal
- Mood swings that happen quickly, sometimes multiple times per hour
- Physical reactions that may include headaches, aches and pains, increased appetite and sleep problems
- Seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations)
- Trouble concentrating
Adderall Withdrawal Timeline
The Adderall withdrawal timeline is different for everyone. The most important factors are a person’s genetics, their history of Adderall abuse and the extent of Adderall abuse. In other words, how much and how often they took Adderall are some of the most important factors that determine the length of withdrawal.
In general, however, withdrawal symptoms will start within 24 hours of the last dose of the drug and will last for around five days. An additional, prolonged withdrawal phase characterized by anxiety, fatigue and cravings can last up to an additional two months.
Can Adderall Withdrawal Cause Seizures?
Seizures are not an expected side effect of Adderall withdrawal. However, seizures can occur as a result of an overdose of stimulants like Adderall.
Can You Die From Adderall Withdrawal?
Adderall withdrawal itself is not deadly. However, it can be dangerous in indirect ways. For example, a person experiencing mood swings and agitation due to Adderall withdrawal may pose a danger to themselves or others. They may put themselves into a harmful situation due to these withdrawal effects, even though Adderall withdrawal itself does not directly put them in danger.