What Does Meth Do To Someone Who Has ADHD?

Methamphetamine (meth) is a highly-addictive illegal stimulant that affects the central nervous system (CNS). It is a Schedule II controlled substance only available legally through one medication that requires a prescription and can’t be refilled. It’s sometimes prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or to help someone lose weight. However, the prescribed doses are typically much lower than when meth is taken illegally.

Meth, also known as speed, crank, or crystal, has a great potential for abuse. The drug releases large quantities of dopamine in the brain, leading to euphoria, which makes it highly addictive and attractive to individuals with mental health disorders that affect neurotransmitters, like dopamine.

People who have ADHD are at a greater risk for meth abuse than those who don’t have the disorder. This article explains everything meth does to someone who has ADHD.

Is Meth Used To Treat ADHD?

The only FDA-approved medication in the US containing methamphetamine hydrochloride, Desoxyn, is rarely prescribed to treatment ADHD because other prescription stimulants are just as successful with lower risk of abuse. ADHD is usually treated with prescription stimulants like Adderall, Ritalin, and Concerta. If someone replaces their ADHD medication with meth or has never been prescribed stimulants before, they can easily develop an addiction. This happens as the brain adapts to meth’s effects and starts to believe it needs meth to function.

Why Do People With ADHD Abuse Meth?

According to research, ADHD and meth abuse are common comorbidities (co-occurring disorders). Studies suggest that risk-taking in ADHD can fuel methamphetamine use. Also, people with ADHD may be more likely to self-medicate using meth. This is especially true with the recent shortage of prescription medications to treat ADHD. Many people couldn’t get their prescriptions and so turned to meth instead. Meth is highly-addictive, so it can be hard for a person to stop using on their own once they start using. Treatment is important as meth use can lead to a variety of negative consequences.

Read more about meth use and meth addiction treatment options here!

How Does Methamphetamine Affect Individuals With ADHD Differently?

People with ADHD who use meth have additional health risks beyond those outlined above. The combination of ADHD and meth use presents unique challenges. Here are some of the problems that can occur in people who abuse meth and have ADHD.

1. Harder to manage emotions: Meth use affects neurotransmitters in the brain, making it harder for people with ADHD to manage their behaviors and emotions. Meth use may increase anger, irritability, and depression in people who have ADHD.
2. Worsened ADHD symptoms: Methamphetamine use can increase hyperactivity, impulsivity, and other symptoms of ADHD. A person with ADHD who abuses meth may have more difficulties focusing on tasks and paying attention.  They may feel more restless and have difficulty sitting still.
3. Increased risk of accidents: Studies have shown that methamphetamine use increases the risk of accidents. A person is more likely to be injured when they are using meth. ADHD may increase the risk of accidents even more as it increases impulsivity.
4. Negative interactions with ADHD medications: Methamphetamine may interact with medications that are used to treat ADHD. Many drugs used to treat ADHD are stimulants. These should not be taken together with meth. It can increase the risk of negative side effects.

Treatment for ADHD and Meth Addiction

The presence of a meth addiction can complicate ADHD treatment. When a substance abuse disorder co-exists with a mental health condition, it may make treatment more complex. Co-occurring disorders can be complex. People with co-occurring disorders need specialized treatment.

When a person has a mental health disorder like ADHD and a substance use disorder like meth addiction, it’s important to treat both conditions simultaneously. This type of treatment is called dual diagnosis treatment. Treatment may include medication, therapy, medication, support groups, and holistic healing modalities. Dual diagnosis treatment increases the chances of recovery from substance use and successful ADHD management.

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Dual Diagnosis Treatment In Asheville, NC

If you or someone you know is struggling with meth use and ADHD, contact Oasis Recovery Center. We understand the challenges of dealing with mental health issues and know that using substances to cope with emotions is common. Our dual diagnosis treatment program is personalized to meet your needs, offering diverse methods for the best chance of success. Some of our top-rated treatment methods include adventure therapy, trauma-informed therapy, breathwork, and more. Call today, and our admissions agents can answer any questions you may have. You can also request a free and private callback if today isn’t convenient.