Snorting Dexedrine | Dextroamphetamine Insufflation

Medically Reviewed by Johnelle Smith, M.D. on March 10, 2021

Dexedrine is a prescription stimulant that has serious side effects when misused or abused. Abusing this drug by snorting can lead to negative physical and psychological effects including the risk of overdose death and continued psychosis.

Dangers Of Snorting Dexedrine - Dextroamphetamine Insufflation

Dextroamphetamine is a strong prescription central nervous system stimulant used for the treatment of ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) and narcolepsy.

Common brand names for this drug include Dexedrine, Zenzedi, and ProCentra. Adderall and Adderall XR also contain a combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine.

When used as prescribed, Dexedrine, and other schedule II ADHD medications like methylphenidate work to help increase focus and control their actions.

Dexedrine facilitates the release of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters to provide the intended effects.

Dexedrine and other ADHD medications are both emotionally addictive. People may become physically dependent when the drug is taken or abused through methods such as snorting over a long time.

Because of its effectiveness in treating ADHD, Dexedrine is commonly prescribed, making this strong stimulant medication easily accessible for off-label use and more prone to abuse.

Side Effects Of Snorting Dexedrine

People that take Dexedrine for recreational drug use may use methods like crushing pills and then snorting, smoking, or injecting them.

People that abuse ADHD drugs by snorting get a near-immediate release of the substance through blood vessels in the nose.

Dexedrine taken through nasal insufflation will give off reactions like increased focus and alertness, feelings of euphoria, and suppressed appetite. The drug also carries a high potential for negative side effects, especially when abused.

Those with a family history of mental illness may be at an increased risk of serious psychological impairment from sustained Dexedrine abuse.

Immediate side effects of Dexedrine use and abuse can include physical, emotional, and psychological effects like:

  • rapid heartbeat
  • tremors
  • abdominal pain
  • reduced appetite or weight loss
  • dry mouth
  • insomnia
  • tolerance and withdrawal symptoms
  • nausea/diarrhea
  • verbal tics
  • mood swings
  • hostility
  • paranoia
  • hallucinations
  • erratic behavior

Physical Effects Of Snorting Dexedrine

When a drug is snorted, the body will respond in some negative way. The nose and upper respiratory system are not meant to continually ingest large amounts of foreign substances.

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Irritation, burning, and other unpleasant effects can result from prescription drug abuse through nasal insufflation.

Other effects of snorting Dexedrine can include:

  • stuffy or runny nose
  • nosebleeds
  • damage to the upper respiratory system
  • lung infections
  • damage to the nose and throat
  • perforated septum
  • damage to the mucous membrane
  • pulmonary embolism

Long-Term Effects Of Dextroamphetamine

Persistent abuse of Dexedrine can have troubling t long–term effects. These include cardiovascular damage, circulatory issues like Raynaud’s phenomenon, and permanent symptoms that may mirror bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.

Over the long-term, people that abuse controlled substances like ADHD medications may turn to dangerous stimulants like methamphetamine when prescription medications are not available.

Other serious long-term, life-threatening situations surround the increased possibility of fatal overdose when drug tolerances build up.

Increased Risk Of Overdose

The risk of sudden death from Dexedrine overdose is increased where existing heart conditions exist.

People who are on MAO-inhibitor antidepressants are at an increased risk of fatal drug interactions.

Possible overdose symptoms from Dexedrine abuse may include:

  • fever
  • confusion
  • hypertension (raised blood pressure)
  • increased risk of heart attack
  • sudden death
  • seizures
  • coma
  • aggressive behavior
  • depression
  • panic
  • restlessness
  • uncontrollable shaking
  • kidney failure and dark urine
  • muscle weakness or aching
  • tiredness or weakness
  • fast breathing
  • hallucinations and paranoia
  • fainting
  • blurred vision
  • upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea
  • stomach cramps

Signs Of Dexedrine Addiction And Withdrawal

Stopping the use of a drug can lead to uncomfortable and even dangerous effects known as withdrawal.

Some key symptoms of withdrawals from sustained CNS stimulant abuse include:

  • fatigue
  • long, but disturbed sleep
  • strong hangover
  • irritability
  • depression
  • violence
  • irritability/anxiety
  • sleepiness
  • headaches
  • increased appetite/hunger
  • lowered heart rate
  • nausea
  • headaches
  • some persistent psychosis and hallucinations

Unfortunately, there are no known effective pharmaceutical therapeutic interventions to help control withdrawal symptoms.

But the combination of a controlled detox under the supervision of a healthcare provider and continual therapy can be beneficial for sustained sobriety.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy can give people the tools to recognize emotional and environmental triggers that encourage substance use.

Treatment Options For Snorting Dexedrine

If you or a loved one have become dependent on prescription drugs like Dexedrine, Adderall, or Vyvanse, there is help available. The high risks of physical and mental health damage associated with these stimulant drugs are never worth it.

If you are ready to make a change, then call our helpline. Treatment specialists can help you choose the best way to address persistent substance use.

From inpatient detox and rehab to outpatient behavioral therapies, there are many ways to address both the physical effects of withdrawal and underlying reasons for substance use. Let us help you make the change you deserve.

For people with ADHD suffering from addiction, there are non– addictive medications like Strattera that, when combined with therapies, are very helpful. Call us now to learn more.

This page does not provide medical advice. See more

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Medically Reviewed by
Johnelle Smith, M.D. on March 10, 2021
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