Adderall Addiction Among College Students: A Growing Concern

College life isn’t easy—late nights, endless deadlines, and the constant pressure to keep up with classes, work, and everything else. For some students, it can feel like there’s just not enough time or energy to handle it all. So, they turn to Adderall to stay focused, get more done, and keep up with the demands of college life.

This explains why Adderall is one of the most abused prescription drugs on college campuses. Recent studies show that about 20% of college students in the US abuse the drug for nonmedical reasons. They call it a study drug, treating it like an academic booster to survive the grind of college life.

The problem is that many students believe that because it’s a prescription medication, it must be safe to use. But the truth is, using Adderall without a prescription can lead to serious consequences. Misuse can quickly escalate into dependency, bring on harmful side effects, and cause long-term damage to both physical and mental health.

In this article, we’ll dive deeper into why Adderall misuse is so common among college students, the dangers it poses, and how you can recognize the signs of substance use disorder. We’ll also explore steps to address the issue and where to find support for students struggling with study drug addiction.

Understanding Adderall Abuse in College

College students are under immense pressure, juggling coursework, extracurriculars, jobs, and internships, all while trying to maintain a social life. In this environment, Adderall becomes appealing because it’s known to help people concentrate for longer periods. It’s no surprise that some students use it without a prescription, believing that it’s just another academic tool.

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However, stimulants like Adderall aren’t harmless study aids. These medications are potent and can alter brain chemistry, especially if used by someone who doesn’t medically require them. Over time, misuse can lead to tolerance—meaning the student needs higher doses to achieve the same effect—and this creates a cycle of dependence that’s increasingly hard to break.

The Link Between ADHD and Misuse

Adderall is composed of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, designed to help those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) manage symptoms like inattention and impulsivity. Because there’s often a misunderstanding about the link between ADHD and “smart performance,” some students assume they can self-diagnose or that everyone can benefit from these drugs. This misconception fuels the nonmedical use of Adderall on campuses across the country, where the pressure to excel can overshadow the very real health concerns.

Why It Feels So Accessible

Adderall’s availability can also play a role. It’s not uncommon for students with legitimate prescriptions to share or sell their medication, making it easy for others to obtain. Plus, with the ongoing cultural narrative that “everyone’s doing it,” it can seem less risky than street drugs—even though the dangers are very real.

Red Flags for Parents

If you’re worried your child might be misusing Adderall, there are some key indicators to watch out for:

Erratic Sleep Patterns

What to look for: If your child is frequently staying awake for extended periods and then crashing for long hours, it may signal stimulant misuse. Complaints of difficulty sleeping or needing less sleep than usual can also be a red flag.
Why it matters: Adderall misuse disrupts natural sleep cycles, leading to severe exhaustion and long-term health consequences.

Extreme Focus Followed by Fatigue

What to look for: Periods of hyper-productivity—such as knocking out multiple assignments in record time—followed by noticeable crashes or periods of lethargy.
Why it matters: This cycle of intense focus and burnout is common in those misusing stimulants, as the body cannot sustain the artificial energy levels Adderall provides.

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Mood Swings and Anxiety

What to look for: Sudden irritability, heightened restlessness, or unexplained mood swings. Increased signs of anxiety, nervousness, or even social withdrawal may also be present.
Why it matters: Adderall can alter brain chemistry, leading to emotional instability and worsening mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression.

Physical Changes

What to look for: Rapid weight loss, reduced appetite, or complaints of headaches, nausea, or chest pain. You might also notice physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or increased blood pressure.
Why it matters: These physical signs indicate the toll stimulant misuse takes on the body, including cardiovascular strain and reduced overall health.

Financial or Academic Red Flags

What to look for: Unexplained expenses, frequent requests for money, or difficulty managing finances. On the academic side, you might see sudden improvements in grades paired with erratic or unsustainable work habits.
Why it matters: Buying Adderall without a prescription often involves additional costs. Academic over-performance followed by burnout can also indicate reliance on the drug.

High-Risk Behavior

What to look for: If you discover your child has tried to snort Adderall or if they are mixing it with alcohol or other substances, this is a serious red flag. Reports of risky social behavior or increased partying may also hint at misuse.
Why it matters: Combining Adderall with alcohol raises the risk of severe outcomes, including alcohol poisoning, while snorting the drug increases its potency and dangers, leading to faster dependency.

The Risks of Long-Term Use

Using Adderall long-term without a prescription harms your child’s health. Physically, it increases blood pressure, disrupts heart rhythms, and raises the risk of cardiac arrest. Mixing it with alcohol worsens the effects and can lead to dangerous outcomes like alcohol poisoning. Many students lose weight rapidly and develop nutritional deficiencies, weakening their bodies.

Mentally, the risks are equally serious. Long-term misuse leads to dependency, with students struggling to quit due to severe withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, depression, and trouble focusing. It worsens anxiety, triggers mood swings, and pushes some toward other drugs. These effects damage emotional and physical health, often lasting far beyond college years.

How You Can Help

As a parent, your support plays a crucial role in helping your child overcome Adderall misuse. Start by opening the conversation calmly and without judgment. Let your child know you care about their health and well-being, not just academic performance. Ask them how they’re feeling and listen without interrupting. This creates a safe space for them to share their struggles.

Educate your child about the risks of Adderall misuse. Many students don’t fully understand the dangers of using stimulant medication without a prescription. Explain how it affects their body and mind over time and why it’s not the solution they think it is.

If you notice signs of misuse or dependency, encourage professional help. Reach out to a behavioral health specialist who can guide your child toward treatment. Therapy options like cognitive behavioral therapy can help them manage stress and develop healthier coping strategies. For those needing more support, programs like outpatient rehab offer structured treatment while allowing them to continue their studies.

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Lastly, support your child in creating a healthier routine. Help them explore better time management, access tutoring, or find campus resources that reduce academic pressure. Remind them that their mental and physical well-being matters far more than grades, and you’re here to guide them every step of the way.

Resources and Support

If your child struggles with Adderall addiction, it’s essential to act quickly and connect them with the proper support. Professional treatment programs, like those offered by More Than Rehab, specialize in addressing stimulant addiction. These programs provide personalized care, including therapy, medical supervision, and strategies to rebuild healthy habits. Options like outpatient rehab allow your child to get the help they need while continuing their education.

Remember, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Resources are available to help both you and your child overcome the challenges of Adderall addiction. Take the first step by contacting a behavioral health professional or a trusted treatment center. Together, you can help your child break free from Adderall addiction and build a healthier, more balanced future. Contact More Than Rehab today to learn how we can support you and your family. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year.

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Recognizing the Signs: How Drug Use Leads to Skin Wounds & Infections

Many people who abuse drugs try so much to hide their secrets. And most of them manage to do so, especially in the early stages. But the thing about drug use is at some point, the signs start to show – either through psychological, behavioral, or physical signs. In this article, we’ll discuss how to recognize the warning signs of drug abuse through skin wounds, scabs, and lesions.

Which Drugs Affect the Skin?

Drug use and addiction don’t just cause negative mental health and physical issues. It can also lead to a range of skin and soft-tissue issues. Here are some common drugs that cause skin problems:

Methamphetamine (Crystal Meth)

Meth is one of the most well-known drugs for causing issues like skin wounds. It’s highly addictive and affects the central nervous system. People who use meth often experience intense itching, which leads to skin picking and scratching. Methamphetamine abuse can also lead to "meth mites," a sensation where users feel like bugs are crawling under their skin, further driving them to scratch and harm their skin.

Heroin

Heroin is typically injected, which is why people who use it often develop track marks—bruised, damaged areas along the veins. Repeated injections can lead to scarring, abscesses, and infections, especially if non-sterile needles are used.

Heroin users also practice skin popping, where they directly inject the drug under the skin instead of the vein. And with obsessive picking, users are likely to get necrotizing skin lesions and infections. And let’s not forget that heroin suppresses the immune system, making it easier for skin wounds to get infected and harder for the body to heal.

Cocaine

Cocaine, particularly when snorted or smoked, can cause skin damage around the nose and mouth. However, when injected, it also causes track marks and abscesses, much like heroin. Cocaine use can make you feel restless and lead to obsessive skin picking. Over time, this can cause open wounds, lesions, and serious infections. The stimulant effects of cocaine also cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to high blood pressure, poor circulation, and a higher risk of skin damage.

Synthetic Opioids (e.g., Fentanyl)

Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids can lead to similar skin problems as heroin, including track marks, abscesses, and infections from repeated injections. They also affect the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections. Opioids also cause dehydration, leaving the skin dry and prone to cracking, which creates even more opportunities for bacteria and fungi to enter and cause bacterial and fungal infections.

Alcohol

While alcohol might not directly cause skin wounds like meth or heroin, it can lead to severe skin issues. Alcohol dehydrates your body, making your skin dry and flaky. Over time, heavy drinking can lead to a yellowish, jaundiced appearance due to liver damage. Alcohol also weakens your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and other skin problems.

How to Identify the Warning Signs of Drug Abuse

If you’re concerned that a loved one is abusing drugs or alcohol, looking out for physical signs is a good starting point. Sores, skin wounds, or infections can be early indicators, but there are other changes to watch for:

Look for Sudden Changes in the Skin

If someone’s skin starts to look different—either more irritated, pale, or unhealthy—that can be an early sign of drug use. Watch for sudden outbreaks of acne, random scabs, or red, irritated skin. Drugs like methamphetamine can cause severe acne or sores from skin picking, which often appear out of nowhere. If you notice these changes and they don’t seem to heal, that’s a sign something might be wrong.

Notice Track Marks or Unusual Bruises

Track marks are one of the more apparent signs of drug use, especially with substances like heroin or Fentanyl. These marks usually appear as minor, dark bruises or scars along veins, especially on the arms, legs, or hands. Repeated injections damage the veins and leave behind noticeable scars. If you notice bruising or marks that don’t seem to have an explanation, it could be a sign of intravenous drug use.

Pay Attention to Frequent Skin Infections

Skin infections, like abscesses (painful, swollen lumps filled with pus), can be a clear indicator of drug use, especially with those who inject drugs. These infections happen because non-sterile needles allow bacteria to enter the skin, leading to infections like staphylococcus aureus or necrotizing fasciitis. If someone has recurring or unexplained skin infections, that’s a major red flag.

Watch for Skin Picking or Scratching

Some drugs, like meth or cocaine, cause a sensation that feels like bugs crawling under the skin, leading to obsessive scratching or picking. If someone is constantly scratching, picking at their skin, or creating sores that won’t heal, this is a sign they may be using drugs. These skin wounds can get infected and turn into scars if left untreated.

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Be Aware of Changes in Skin Color

If someone’s skin starts to look paler than usual, or if you notice a yellowish (jaundiced) tint, it could indicate liver problems from alcohol or opioid abuse. A jaundiced appearance is often linked to liver damage, which happens when your body can’t correctly filter toxins. A pale complexion can also suggest poor circulation due to drug use, especially with substances that affect blood flow, like heroin.

Look for Signs of Premature Aging

Drugs like methamphetamine can make someone look older than they are. You might notice deeper wrinkles, sagging skin, or a tired appearance. This happens because drugs dehydrate the body and break down collagen, which keeps skin firm and youthful-looking. If someone seems to age rapidly, especially in their skin, drug use could be the cause.

Keep an Eye on Sun Sensitivity

Some drugs make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, causing sunburns or dark spots more easily. If you notice that someone’s skin seems to be burning faster or developing dark patches, especially when they’re outside, this could be a side effect of drug use.

Look for Vascular Issues

Discoloration in the skin, especially around the hands, feet, or injection sites, can be an early sign of drug-related vascular problems. Poor circulation caused by drug use can turn skin a bluish or purplish color, especially in the extremities. This is a sign that the veins or arteries are damaged and the skin lacks oxygen.

Can You Reverse the Effects of Drug Use on Your Skin?

If you’re worried about your loved one’s skin issues due to drug use, the good news is that many of the effects can be reversed with the right care. Once they stop using, their body can begin to heal. Minor wounds, sores, and infections often improve with proper hygiene and medical treatment. However, more serious conditions, like deep scars or severe infections, may need more intensive care. The sooner your loved one seeks help, the better their chances of healing their skin and overall health.

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When to Seek Help

If your loved one is showing signs of drug use, it’s essential to act quickly. These could be early signs of a larger issue that may worsen if left untreated.

Here’s when you should think about getting help:

Skin infections that don’t heal or worsen, such as those caused by bacteria like staphylococcus aureus, can become dangerous if not treated.
If they show symptoms of more serious issues like necrotizing fasciitis (a life-threatening skin infection) or other infectious diseases, seek medical help immediately.
Watch for physical changes like unusual sores, scabs, and wounds, and note their overall health. Changes in body temperature, sudden weight loss, or signs of withdrawal can signal the need for professional support.

Seeking help doesn’t just mean addressing the physical effects of drug use. Finding treatment for their substance use disorder is critical to a full recovery. You can also look into harm reduction strategies to lower their risks until they’re ready for treatment. Encouraging them to seek help is one of the best things you can do for their health and your peace of mind.

It’s never too late to take that first step and ask for help. Give us a call today, we are available 24/7, 365 days a year:

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5 Signs Your Loved One is Using Illegal Drugs

Drug use is a growing problem in the United States. According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS), about 50% of Americans aged 12 and older have used illegal drugs at least once. With this shocking trend, it's no wonder many people are worried about their loved ones using illegal drugs.

If you're concerned that your loved one may be using drugs, it's important to identify the instance of abuse early, so you can intervene before it turns into a full-blown addiction. The longer your loved one abuses drugs, the harder it will be for them to quit without experiencing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Long-term drug or alcohol abuse can also lead to serious health problems, like liver damage, heart disease, and brain damage.

How to tell if someone is on drugs

It can be difficult to tell if your loved one is using illegal drugs. However, some warning signs may indicate drug use. If you notice any of the following signs, it's important to talk to your loved one and get them help:

A shift in mood and personality

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One of the most common signs is a dramatic change in mood or personality. This can manifest itself in various ways, from sudden outbursts of anger to withdrawing from social activities. For example, a person who is usually cheerful may become withdrawn and sullen. Or a person who is typically outgoing may become more introverted and subdued.

These changes in behavior may be accompanied by other signs, such as changes in sleep patterns, appetite, or energy level. Drug use can also cause a person to become more impulsive, irritable, or paranoid. If you notice any sudden or dramatic mood swings or changes in personality, it could be a sign that the person is using drugs, and you should take action accordingly.

Behavioral changes

Another common sign of drug use is a change in behavioral health. This can include neglecting responsibilities, engaging in risky behaviors, or exhibiting criminal behavior. For example, a person who suddenly starts skipping work or school, getting into fights, or breaking the law may be using drugs. They may also isolate themselves from friends and family, become withdrawn and outspoken, avoid eye contact, lock doors, borrow money, disappear for extended periods and chew gum to cover up.

Changes in hygiene and appearance

A change in physical appearance can also be a sign of drug use. The reason is that people abusing drugs don't care about their appearance much more than finding the next shot of drugs. They also may be unable to eat or sleep, leading to weight loss.

Besides, drug admission modes like injection can cause visible track marks and infections that can change a person's appearance. As a result, a person may look unkempt, have bloodshot eyes or red eyes, and dilated pupils. They may also look thin and tired; their skin can be pale or odd in color.

Changes in physical health

If someone is using drugs, it can sometimes cause them to have physical health problems. This might include weight loss, frequent sickness, mouth sores, runny nose, etc. That's because drug use can lead to a weakened immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infection.

Drug use can also lead to accidents or injuries that result in bruises and skin abrasions. But the most obvious physical sign of drug use is slurred speech, like when a person's words are jumbled or they have difficulty speaking. This happens because drugs can slow down the body's central nervous system.

Recognize paraphernalia

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Last but not least, if you see any drug paraphernalia, it's a sure sign that the person is using drugs. This includes pipes, syringes, rolling papers, lighters, and roach clips. Drug paraphernalia is often used to store, prepare, and consume drugs.

So, if you see any of these items lying around their house, it's a good indicator that the person is using drugs. You can find paraphernalia in your loved one's room, car, or even on their body.

Tips when looking for signs of drug use

People who abuse drugs won't make it obvious that they're doing so. In fact, they will often try to hide their drug use from others. So it's important to be vigilant and look for the subtle signs of drug use. Here are some tips:

Talk face-to-face with a loved one

When your loved one comes home, take some time to talk with them face-to-face. This will give you a better opportunity to look for any signs of drug use, such as changes in appearance or dilated pupils. You might also catch some smell of drugs like marijuana, alcohol, or tobacco.

Observe their behavior

Are they more withdrawn than usual? Do they seem more tired or have less energy? Have they been skipping work or school? Are they engaging in risky behaviors? Do they have any mental health disorders? These are all potential signs of drug use.

Listen to what they say

Do they avoid eye contact when talking to you? Do they make excuses for their behavior? Do they seem paranoid or anxious? These could all be signs that they are using drugs.

Trust your gut

If something doesn't feel right, trust your gut instinct. If you think your loved one is using drugs, there's a good chance they are.

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Search their spaces

If you suspect your loved one is using drugs, it's important to search their personal spaces, such as their room, car, or locker. Check the drawers, wardrobe, inside prescription drugs containers, in a plant, under the bed or sofa, between books, inside containers, candy bags, etc. Most drug users hide drugs or paraphernalia in such places.

Check their phone

Nowadays, people use their phones for everything. So it's not surprising that drug users also use their phones to keep track of their drug supply and contact dealers. If you have access to your loved one's phone, check it for any suspicious texts or calls. You can also look for apps associated with drugs, such as those used to buy or sell drugs.

Drug use can be difficult to spot, but there are some warning signs to look out for. If you think your loved one is using illegal drugs, take action and talk to them about it. If they are unwilling to get help, you can reach out to a professional addiction treatment center for help.

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My Roommate is an Addict, How Do I Help Them?

It can be tough to deal with a roommate with drug abuse problems. You may feel like you are constantly walking on eggshells and may not know what to do or how to help. This guide will give you some tips on how to support your roommate and help them get the treatment they need.

Challenges of sharing a room with an addict

It's hard to live with a roommate who struggles with drug abuse for several reasons:

1. It can be dangerous. If your roommate is using drugs, there's a risk that they could overdose or have an accident.

2. It can be disruptive. You might not have a good night's sleep if your roommate is up all night using drugs or attempts to stop using and end up with signs and symptoms of withdrawal.

3. It can be expensive. If your roommate is constantly buying drugs, they may not have enough money to pay their share of the rent.

4. Addiction can also lead to erratic behavior, making it difficult to predict what might happen next. And if there are children in the home, they may be exposed to things that no child should have to see.

5. Finally, it can be emotionally draining. It's hard watching someone you care about spiral out of control, and there's always the worry that they could relapse.

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What to do when your roommate is an addict

Living with a person who has a physical dependence on drugs or alcohol can be difficult. However, it is possible to make it work if both parties are committed to making it happen. Here are some things you can do to make it work.

Have an Honest Discussion

First, try to honest discussion with your roommate about the situation. It can be difficult to bring up the topic, but remember that you're doing this because you care about the person and their wellbeing. Explain how their addiction affects you and see if there is anything they are willing to do to change the situation. Here are some tips for how to approach the conversation:

Pick a time when you can talk to your friend without being interrupted.
Start by expressing your concerns and explain why you're worried.
Listen to what the person has to say without judgment.
Avoid lecturing or sounding like you're attacking the person.
Encourage the person to get help if they are struggling with addiction.
Offer your support and let them know that you're there for them.

If your roommate is unwilling to change, you may need to consider finding a new place to live. However, if they are willing to seek help for their addiction, you can support them in ways we'll discuss in this article.

Set expectations and boundaries

Setting expectations and boundaries with your addicted roommate is key to maintaining a healthy relationship and living environment. It is important to be upfront about your expectations, such as cleanliness, guests, noise levels, etc. This will help to avoid conflict later on.

It is also important to set boundaries, such as not allowing your roommate to borrow money or use your belongings without permission. Addicts can be manipulative, and it is important to protect yourself. Also, don't be afraid to seek help from a professional if you feel like you are struggling to cope with your roommate's addiction. Addiction is a serious disease, and it is important to get help if you feel overwhelmed.

Build trust

People with substance use disorders often have a hard time trusting those around them, making it hard to provide the support they need. However, building trust is essential if you want to be able to help an addict through recovery. Showing that you are there for them, listening to them, and respecting their boundaries will go a long way towards building trust. Once you have established trust, you will be better positioned to provide the support and assistance that addicts need to recover.

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Communicate honestly

Remember that your roommate is not a bad person, and they are likely struggling with a lot of pain and confusion. Try to communicate honestly with them. Let them know that you are concerned about their health and wellbeing, and offer to help them get the resources they need to get better.

Be prepared to listen to them, and try to understand their point of view. Remember that this is a difficult situation for both of you, but honest communication can help to resolve it.

Reach out for help

Trying to help a friend or family member struggling with addiction can be challenging, emotional, and exhausting. It's important to remember that you can't do it alone.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, addiction is a chronic disease, and professional help is essential for recovery. Reaching out for support from friends, family, and mental health professionals can give you the strength and guidance you need to weather this difficult journey.

Additionally, there are many resources available to help you better understand addiction and how to best support your loved one. Don't be afraid to ask for help – it could make all the difference in the world.

Convince your roommate to seek treatment

The hardest part of dealing with someone struggling with substance abuse is getting them to admit to using. This is because most of them are in denial about their addiction. Once that is out of their way, it's easier to convince them to seek treatment by letting them know that there are people who care about them and want to help them recover.

Explain that while treatment can be difficult, it is going to be worth it. You should also offer your support and tell them that you will be there for them every step of the way. With patience and understanding, you can convince a drug addict to seek treatment and begin the journey to recovery.

Understand the treatment process

Addiction is a serious medical condition that requires professional treatment. By understanding the treatment process, you can be a valuable source of support for your roommate as they begin their journey to recovery. Addiction treatment typically includes:

Detoxification allows the body to rid itself of the addictive substance. This can be a difficult and painful process, but it's crucial for starting the road to recovery.
After detox, your roommate will likely enter a rehabilitation program to receive counseling and therapy to help them confront their addiction. This can be an emotionally demanding process, but it is often essential for long-term recovery.
Your roommate may then join support groups for ongoing support. These groups offer peer-to-peer support and can be an important part of recovery. They also provide a sense of community and connection, essential for people in early recovery.

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As your roommate goes through treatment, it's important to be understanding and supportive. Remember that addiction is a disease affecting over 23 million people in the United States. But recovery is possible with time and effort.

Addiction treatment works

Addiction is a serious disease that can profoundly affect every aspect of a person's life. If your roommate is abusing alcohol, illicit drugs, or prescription drugs, it's important to know that there are treatment options available. Recovery is possible, but it often takes time and effort.

There are many different treatment programs, and the best option for each individual will vary depending on the severity of the addiction and other factors. Common treatment options include inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient therapy, behavioral therapy, 12-step programs, and medication-assisted treatment. No matter what type of treatment is right for you, the most important thing is to reach out for help. With the support of professionals and loved ones, you can begin the journey to recovery.

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Pupil Dilation & Drug Use - What Drugs Cause It?

There are many different signs of drug abuse, some more common than others. Pupil dilation is one of the most common signs of drug abuse.

This article will discuss the various drugs that cause pupil dilation and what to look out for if you’re worried that your loved one is abusing or addicted to drugs.

What are pupils?

Pupils are black circles found at the center of each eye. Usually, they constrict (become smaller) or dilate (become more prominent) when the light levels in your surroundings vary. The pupils’ primary function is to direct light to the optic nerve at the back of your eyes (retina), thus allowing you to see.

Eye muscles located in the iris are responsible for pupil dilation. They manipulate pupils and make them adjust depending on the amount of light.

Pupils measure 2-4 millimeters when constricted and about 4-8 millimeters when dilated. Therefore, your pupil size can vary depending on the circumstances.

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What is pupil dilation, and why does it occur?

Pupil dilation after drug abuse occurs when the drugs activate your body’s flight or fight adrenaline response by engaging adrenergic receptors in the brain and serotonin. This results in a chemical reaction that leads to muscle relaxation (mydriasis), making the pupils expand to allow more light in.

Drugs that can cause pupil dilation

Several drugs can alter pupil size since most drug interactions in the body affect neurotransmitters which are your body’s chemical messengers.

Most drugs contain chemicals. Therefore, they cause chemical reactions in your body, affecting neurotransmitters. Since neurotransmitters determine your pupil size, they may dilate after drug use.

There are specific drugs that can cause eye dilation. Most of them are psychotropic substances and stimulants.

Some common drugs that cause pupils to dilate are:

· LSD

· Cocaine

· Ecstasy

· Mescaline

· Amphetamines

· MDMA

· Psilocybin

· SSRI antidepressants

Xanax, a benzodiazepine drug, can also make pupils dilate since it affects the activity of neurotransmitter GABA that relaxes the muscles. Additionally, the stimulant medication used in ADHD treatment, i.e., Adderall and Ritalin, can also cause pupil dilation.

Other drugs, specifically opioids, can cause pinpoint pupils. Pinpoint pupils refer to pupils constricting and failing to respond to light. Sometimes, pinpoint pupils are an overdose symptom. If you notice a heroin user has pinpoint pupils, it would be best to call 911 immediately.

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Marijuana, alcohol, and cocaine cause bloodshot eyes when they expand the blood vessels around the pupils.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse has more information on the drugs mentioned above, including the effects of LSD.

How is pupil dilation determined?

When there is suspicion of drug abuse, there is a unique tool that officers or medical practitioners can use to determine pupil dilation and the most likely cause.

First responders use the Drug Recognition Card to determine whether or not an individual is sober. The International Association of Chiefs of Police invented the chart to quickly determine the pupil size difference between sober people and those high on drugs.

The Drug Recognition Card can also help first responders determine which drug is responsible for the dilation. It has a list of various drugs and a pupil dilation scale which helps officers gauge the extent of pupil dilation.

Other possible causes of pupil dilation

Besides light and drug use, pupils can dilate for the following reasons:

· Pupils can dilate if you focus on objects far away from you.

· If you get a concussion, one of your pupils may dilate. One of them will appear more prominent.

· Emotions. How you feel can make your pupils dilate. Most times, pupil dilation is a sign of endorphin release. If you’re happy, your pupils will appear more prominent.

· Anisocoria. Anisocoria refers to a medical condition where one pupil is bigger than the other.

· Iritis. Iritis is an eye condition caused by inflammation of the iris.

· Prescription medication. Some prescription medicines can cause pupil dilation. They include antihistamines, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, anticholinergics, decongestants, mydriatics, benzodiazepines, dopamine precursors, and stimulants.

Are there long-term effects of pupil dilation?

If your pupils dilate due to drug abuse, you may wonder whether they would remain that way for good.

The pupils often go back to their original size when the drug side effects fade. However, there are a few instances when the pupils become dilated during the withdrawal period. This is common in individuals who abuse opioids.

Currently, there aren’t enough studies to conclude whether or not drug use can result in permanent pupil dilation.

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How to deal with pupil dilation

When your pupils dilate due to drug use or for any other reason, it can be uncomfortable since the pupils let in more light. Everything may appear overwhelmingly bright, and you may be sensitive to most if not all sources of light.

You may need to wear protective eye gear to shield yourself from light. This way, you will be more comfortable walking around and doing day-to-day tasks. Photochromic lenses and sunglasses will come in handy. Sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun’s rays, while photochromic lenses automatically adjust your light levels.

If you’re worried about pupil dilation, you can contact an eye specialist who will examine you and advise you on eye health.

Other signs of drug use

Although pupil dilation can be a sign of drug abuse, you cannot conclude that individuals have abused drugs by simply looking at their pupil size.

You may need to look out for other symptoms of drug abuse. The most common ones include; restlessness, unexplained mood changes, loss of appetite, increased heart rate, tremors, high blood pressure, heavy sweating, and change in sleep patterns. The individual’s performance at work or school may also be affected.

If you notice your loved one has any symptoms of drug abuse, it may be time to seek professional help.

Seek professional help

At More Than Rehab, we acknowledge that abusing alcohol or drugs can have many side effects. Drug abuse affects your life and that of your loved ones. You are also likely to develop a substance use disorder.

To start your healing journey, contact us today. Other than addiction, we deal with co-occurring disorders like depression, self-harm, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. We will walk with you every step of the way and help you turn your life