Informative

All About Aderrall

Ethan Han
March 8, 2023

What is Adderall?

Adderall is a type of amphetamine that is prescribed to individuals with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder). But what does it actually do? And why has the sports industry banned the use of adderall for players even if prescribed?

Effects of Adderall

Adderall helps improve focus and significantly reduce impulsivity by increasing the dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. The drug is often misunderstood. Although it is a stimulant, it induces a calming effect for individuals using it to treat ADHD.

But for those who don’t have ADHD, the drug’s effect is powerful as it causes the feeling of being “wired.” Being “wired” means you become hyper-focused in your activities. According to a survey from The Michigan Daily, 25% of the 1300 respondents uses stimulants like adderall to do school work or take exams. It helps combat fatigue.

For example, at the end of a sports game, a person that is not taking Adderall would be completely wiped out from using up their energy. If they were to take Adderall, it would restore their energy.

Effects on athletes

It can help an athlete stay alert, focused, as well maintain a high energy level. The drug can last for several hours and probably even throughout the entire game. In addition to enhancing athletic performance, utilizing Adderall gives an athlete the energy and concentration they need to continue their studies while undergoing demanding training programs.

However, the excessive use of Adderall can result in tolerance, physical dependence, or addiction on top of performance enhancement. Therefore, it is on the banned list substance list under the NFL, NBA, and MLB.