TeenHealthFX - Answers - They Do Not Believe in ADD

ADD/ADHD / Question
Published: September 30, 2005

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I have started to take the over the counter drug Adderall during school hours. I usually take 20-30 mg which causes no high just concentration, I am much more awake, and I feel the need to take a lot of notes in class. My grades have been way up because of this, better then they have ever been. I feel that I might need to be prescribed them because they help me but I can't ask my parents because they do not believe in ADD. Is this bad for me to keep taking them?

Signed: They Do Not Believe in ADD

Dear They Do Not Believe in ADD,

TeenHealthFX has some concerns regarding your question. Adderall is classified as Schedule II controlled substance, a classification given to medical drugs with the highest abuse potential and dependence profile. It is not sold over the counter and can be only be prescribed by a physician. The only other way to get Adderall is through illegal means, such as obtaining it over the Internet or getting it from a friend.

It is not a good idea to take prescription medication without being monitored by a doctor, especially medication that has the potential for abuse. Adderall is a combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. People often become dependent on dextroamphetamine and amphetamine after using it for long periods of time. This is why it is so important to be followed by a doctor and use the medication as directed.

Adderall also can have significant side effects as well as undesired effects if mixed with certain other medications. If you are getting Adderall illegally via the Internet you also run the risk of getting a medication that is not necessarily made up of the correct chemical compounds that could cause further risk to your health.

TeenHealthFX urges you to see a doctor as soon as possible. After a medical checkup you can then talk with your doctor about whether Adderall would be appropriate or not. You should let your parents know what has been going on and have them accompany you to the doctor. Tell them you would like them to keep an open mind and listen to what the doctor has to say. Also, a doctor can refer you to a neurologist/psychiatrist for an evaluation for ADD.

Signed: TeenHealthFX