As with most drugs, Adderall does expire. What does this mean, and is it appropriate to use? This blog addresses these concerns. Before we do that, let’s look at the meaning of Adderall and the reason it’s prescribed.
Key Points to Remember
- Adderall is a stimulant prescribed to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. However, the misuse of Adderall can result in addiction.
- Even though Adderall has an expiration date, its effectiveness could be reduced rather than becoming dangerous.
- A proper Adderall storage system can increase its effectiveness.
- Expired Adderall should be eliminated in accordance with FDA guidelines.
What Is Adderall, And Why Is It Prescribed?
Adderall is an FDA-approved medication prescribed to those suffering from ADHD. It is a medication for people with attention deficit disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (sleep issues). It is a combination of two central nervous system (CNS) drugs, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Adderall boosts certain chemicals within the brain, enhancing the user’s concentration, attention, and control of impulses.
However, Adderall misuse is widespread, particularly among college adolescents and students who take it as a “study drug” to enhance concentration and endurance. The misuse or abuse of Adderall could result in dependence.
Understanding Why Drugs Expire?
Dates for the expiration of drugs indicate the date on which the manufacturer can guarantee their full strength and security. The drug manufacturers establish these dates using stability tests. It is important to know that medicines that have expired could be dangerous since their effectiveness may have diminished.
How To Know Adderall Has Expired?
If you’re using Adderall and are looking to verify the expiration date, it is possible to find it on the label of the prescription bottle or on the packaging. If you don’t see it or the date is rubbing off, you shouldn’t gamble to think that the medication has expired.
The Risks Of Taking Expired Adderall
The main concern with expired Adderall is the fact that it might diminish its effectiveness. As Adderall gets older, its chemical components may break down, decreasing its effectiveness. If you rely on Adderall to control your ADHD and narcolepsy-related symptoms, the use of expired medications could have negative consequences. While using certain medications past their expiration dates can result in negative health effects, it is extremely rare, especially when it comes to Adderall.
How To Properly And Safely Store Adderall?
Storage that is properly stored can help preserve the strength of Adderall to its maximum. Here are the steps for achieving this:
- Choose a safe spot. It is best to keep your Adderallin in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area, like a cabinet in the kitchen or a linen closet.
- Beware of children. The location you choose should be secure to avoid accidental consumption.
- Avoid humid places: Don’t store your Adderall in humid areas such as the bathroom.
- Beware of moisture. Keep your Adderall in its original container to avoid exposure to moisture. This could cause the drug to be destroyed and weaken.
How To Deal With Expired Adderall?
If you’ve run out of Adderall, don’t simply throw it away. Unintentional disposal could result in accidental use or environmental damage. Make sure you follow the guidelines of the FDA on medication disposal, or bring this to your local take-back event.
Seeking Professional Help For Adderall Addiction
Although we’ve focused on the effectiveness and safety of the expired Adderall, it’s important to recognize that abuse of this medication as well as other stimulant drugs may cause addiction. If you or someone close to you is using Adderall without a prescription, using more doses than prescribed, or having difficulty stopping it, it is appropriate to seek help from a professional.
