Adderall is also widely known as the "study drug". A 2004 study conducted at the University of Wisconsin determined 14% of the campus had misused Adderall, or a similar ADHD medication. Since Adderall is an amphetamine that aids an individual with greater concentration, energy, and the ability to stay awake, accounts of college students studying for exams or writing papers for fourteen hours straight are common. Consequently, the next 24 hours may be rife with painful side effects such as temporary vision loss, involuntary muscle spasms, mental confusion, vomiting, and over fifteen hours of unconsciousness, if Adderall is taken to prevent sleep.

Behavioral therapists and healthcare providers agree Adderall addiction should be treated similarly to cocaine and methamphetamine addiction. Both have been treated effectively in rehabilitation centers, support groups, and through intense psychotherapy. Although there are no established medications for the treatment of Adderall addiction presently obtainable, anti-depressants can help alleviate the symptoms of depression during early withdrawal. Tapering, or a slow decrease off of the drug, is also recommended.  Adderall withdrawal symptoms consist of: excessive tiredness, hopelessness/depression, alterations in heart rhythm, and shakiness. The withdrawal is not lethal, but may be enormously uncomfortable depending on the length of Adderall use and abuse.