Adderall

as sampled by Matthew Gorman

It's the crazy craze that's sweeping the nation and all the kooky kids are doing it! At least that's how it seems with regards to this month's vice, the psychostimulant Adderall.

Prescribed as a treatment for ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) and narcolepsy as well as for cases of extreme depression, Adderall is a concoction of mixed amphetamine salts including such ingredients as dextroamphetamine (by itself known as Dexedrine) and racemic d/l-amphetamine salts. In other words, speed. Yes, folks, with over 37 million prescriptions for Adderall and similar drugs like Ritalin, every year we are fast becoming a nation of amphetamine users. While these drugs have decidedly beneficial effects for those who suffer from the afflictions noted above, the pills invariably find their way onto the street to be enjoyed by all.

Amphetamines work by binding to the monoamine transporters, blocking the breakdown of neurochemicals like dopamine, serotonin and norpinephrine while simultaneously stimulating the production of these same amines, thus resulting in their extracellular build-up and consequently, in an amphetamine "high".

Adderall users report feelings of euphoria, increased mental focus and productivity, as well as increased physical performance, all hallmarks of amphetamine's effects upon the body. The drug's effects typically last from around four to six hours, although an extended release version, Adderall XR (recently banned in Canada) can keep you going for up to twelve hours a dose! Dose sizes range from 5mg to 30mg tablet strengths.

Now, as with any drug, there is the unfortunate down side. Common side effects of Adderall include decreased appetite, insomnia, stomach problems, and mild to severe depression after the effects of the drug have worn off. Even more serious side effects can include hallucinations, increased aggression, heart palpitations, toxic psychosis and seizures. There have only been a handful of reported deaths of Adderall users, however, many of who had pre-existing heart conditions and likely did not obtain the drug legally.

Adderall has seen its greatest increase in illegal use at collegiate institutions across the country, with students employing the drug as a "cognitive steroid" to help them study and cram for tests. Tweek on, young minds of America, tweek on.