Prescribed medications like Adderall have a crucial role in managing health conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). But what about when the medication has expired?
If you have a prescription for this medication or have some leftovers from a previous prescription, you may be wondering if it’s safe to take Adderall which has expired. Does Adderall expire? Can an expired Adderall pill be dangerous?
If you’re thinking about taking expired Adderall, there are a few things you should know. It is essential to understand that drug expiration dates are not arbitrary and that the side effects of taking expired medication can be detrimental to your health.
In this blog post, we will discuss whether or not Adderall expires, the side effects of taking expired medication, and how to properly store your medication.
Does Adderall Expire?
Yes, Adderall expires.
Adderall is a powerful stimulant medication composed of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts. It works by increasing the activity of neurotransmitters in your brain, including dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These chemicals allow your brain to stay alert and focused for longer periods of time.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that all products sold in the United States, including medications like Adderall, have an expiration date stamped on the packaging. The expiration date indicates the last day that the medication is guaranteed to maintain full potency and safety.
When it comes to drug expiration, drug manufacturers are required to conduct stability testing to determine the shelf life of a product. The expiration date is based on these results, and it’s safe to assume that the medication is still potent and effective up until that point. However, it’s important to always check the expiration date on your medication and dispose of any expired medication in your medicine cabinets.
Some studies show that some drugs can still be effective years after the expiration date, it is really not advisable to take them. For instance, you might come across a study conducted by the FDA showing that more than 90% were good even 15 years after the listed expiration date. While this might be true for some drugs, the truth is that taking expired medications comes with a risk of side effects.
What Happens If I Take Expired Adderall?
When a drug like Adderall expires, the medication’s active ingredient may lose potency over time. This means it may not work as well as it did when it was fresh. Additionally, the active ingredients in expired medication can degrade and release harmful substances, which can cause harm to the body.
Taking expired Adderall may increase the risk of side effects such as headaches, nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. If you are taking Adderall which is not meant for you, this also comes with dangers.
Misusing Adderall can lead to serious health complications, including increased blood pressure, heart palpitations, anxiety and depression, and even addiction.
How to Store Adderall?
It’s important to note that storing your medication properly can help extend its shelf life. Heat and moisture can cause medicines, including Adderall, to degrade more quickly than expected.
It’s best to store your medication in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and
humidity. Avoid storing your medication in the bathroom, as the humidity from the shower can cause it to break down.
Can I Get Addicted to Adderall?
Yes, it is possible to become addicted to Adderall.
Adderall can be highly addictive when people often take more than prescribed or attempt to get “high” from the effects of the drug. Taking too much of the medication can produce symptoms such as euphoria and paranoia. When someone begins taking Adderall without a prescription or abusing it regularly beyond what’s been prescribed, they are putting themselves at risk for addiction.
Some signs that someone is addicted to Adderall include feeling an intense craving for the drug while not being able to concentrate without it, using larger amounts or using it more frequently than intended.
It’s important not only to avoid misusing prescription drugs like Adderall but also never take medication that isn’t yours—especially if it has expired—as this could potentially have dangerous side effects due to its chemical makeup changing over time.
So while you may think taking extra Adderall will help you focus better or get more done quicker, it’s best practice to avoid these temptations and only take medications as directed by your doctor so you don’t become addicted.
Get Help for Adderall Abuse in Southern California
If you or someone you love is struggling with an Adderall addiction, it’s essential to seek help right away. At Morningside Recovery by Lighthouse, we provide comprehensive treatment programs for individuals suffering from Adderall abuse and addiction.
Our team of experienced professionals provides personalized care in a safe and supportive environment, so you can heal and learn how to manage a healthier lifestyle. Contact us today for more information about our Adderall addiction treatment program.
