Prescription stimulants, such as ProCentra, can help control the symptoms of ADHD, but they also carry a risk of misuse. Even people taking the medication exactly as prescribed can develop dependence, making it harder to determine who needs drug rehab.
Misuse vs. Addiction
Recognizing stimulant abuse symptoms earlier makes it easier to avoid long-term health complications. Mood swings, escalating doses and an unusual preoccupation with liquid dextroamphetamine are all signs that someone may be using the medication inappropriately.
Stimulant misuse may begin innocently, such as using ProCentra without a prescription or taking a higher dose than prescribed to boost focus or energy. While some people stop taking stimulants after limited misuse, others go on to develop dependence or full-blown addictions.
Here’s how they differ:
- Dependence: Physical dependence occurs when the body adapts to a drug, resulting in withdrawal symptoms if you attempt to stop or reduce your dose.
- Addiction: Also known as substance use disorder (SUD), addiction causes someone to use ProCentra compulsively, even when it has harmful consequences. People with stimulant use disorders can’t stop on their own.
When to Get Professional Help
Take action right away if you notice any of these ProCentra addiction signs:
- Using liquid dextroamphetamine without a prescription
- “Doctor shopping” to obtain extra medication
- Increasing the dosage without medical guidance
- Obsession with obtaining stimulants
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when skipping doses
- Failed attempts to quit
- Feeling unable to function without the drug
When diagnosing stimulant addiction, clinicians often refer to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5). This reference guide lists specific criteria for diagnosing someone with a substance use disorder.
Some of the DSM-5 criteria for ProCentra addiction include:
- Taking stimulants longer or in larger amounts than intended
- Investing significant time in obtaining, using or recovering from the effects of liquid dextroamphetamine
- Continuing to use ProCentra even when it makes social or personal problems worse
- Experiencing cravings or a strong desire to use stimulants
- Withdrawing from social, professional or recreational activities due to substance use
- Developing tolerance to the drug
Prescription stimulant addiction affects people of all ages, from teens to working adults. Teens and college students may misuse these substances to cope with academic pressure. Athletes may use ProCentra to increase alertness during games and practice sessions.
Adults misuse it for a variety of reasons. In certain professional settings, employees use stimulants to make it through long shifts. Some people take liquid dextroamphetamine to suppress hunger, reverse fatigue or boost their mood.
Early intervention increases the chances of a successful recovery. Seeking professional help at a high-quality ProCentra rehab center can prevent serious medical, social and financial consequences.