Do adderall side effects go away

Adderall's Effects on the Brain: Short-Term and Long-Term Symptoms

Adderall is a stimulant medication primarily used in the treatment of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). It comes in two forms:

Adderall oral tablet
Adderall XR extended-release oral capsule

According to research, Adderall helps decrease impulsivity in people living with ADHD. It also promotes increased attention and improves the ability to focus.

Doctors may also prescribe Adderall to treat narcolepsy, since it may help people living with this condition stay awake during the day.

Since Adderall and other stimulants can help increase attention, focus, and wakefulness, they’re sometimes misused, especially by students. People trying to lose weight might also misuse these drugs, since they’re known to cause a loss of appetite.

Using Adderall for anything other than its intended purpose, especially at higher doses than prescribed by a doctor, can lead to dependency and addiction.

If you take too much Adderall, you can develop a dependency and eventually need more to experience the same effect. This can be dangerous to your health.

Adderall can not only cause changes in your brain chemistry and function, it may also lead to heart damage, digestive problems, and other unwanted side effects.

Read on to learn more about possible side effects of Adderall, how to reverse these effects, and the best way to stop taking Adderall.

Students and other people who want to get a lot of work done in a short period of time might turn to Adderall for a quick boost to their concentration and memory.

But 2018 research suggests Adderall doesn’t always have much of an effect for people who don’t have ADHD. In fact, it might even lead to memory impairment — the exact opposite of the desired effect.

Adderall can cause other unwanted side effects. When a doctor monitors your Adderall use, they can help keep track of these effects and adjust your dose to reduce or eliminate them.

Some common short-term side effects of Adderall include:

appetite loss
digestive problems, including nausea and constipation
restlessness
heart palpitations or rapid heartbeat
dry mouth
mood changes, including anxiety, agitation, and irritability
head pain
sleep issues

These side effects can differ from person to person. They might also vary by age. Side effects often go away after a week or two of using the drug. Some people taking Adderall at a dose prescribed by a doctor may not experience noticeable side effects.

Rarely, Adderall can cause serious side effects like delusions, hallucinations, or other symptoms of psychosis.

Some side effects, such as heart problems, mood changes, or psychotic symptoms, can be dangerous. While these symptoms may go away before long, it’s important to talk to your doctor if you have symptoms that affect your daily life, seem unusual, or make you feel concerned in any way.

Adderall can help you feel more energized, focused, motivated, and productive. You might also feel euphoric. But over time, this experience can change.

Instead, you might notice:

weight loss
stomach problems
head pain
decreased energy or fatigue
anxiety, panic, low or irritable mood, and other emotional changes

Heart problems and increased risk for stroke

Long-term misuse of Adderall may lead to heart problems and increase your risk for stroke or heart attack.

Dependency and addiction

Another significant long-term effect of heavy Adderall use is dependence on the drug.

If you take high doses of Adderall for a long time, your brain may become dependent on the drug and eventually produce less dopamine. You might experience:

mood changes, including low moods
irritability
lethargy

You may have trouble enjoying things you usually enjoy. You’ll eventually need more Adderall to get the same effect. Over time, addiction can result.

Adderall best practices

Adderall dosage can vary, so determining what amount is considered heavy use isn’t always easy. In general, you should not:

take more Adderall than your doctor prescribes
take Adderall if you don’t have a prescription
take Adderall more frequently than instructed by your doctor

Changes in mood and libido

Over the long term, Adderall can sometimes cause changes in mood and behavior, especially when used in high doses. These changes may affect interpersonal and romantic relationships.

Some men who use Adderall feel less interested in sex or experience erectile dysfunction, especially if they take high doses for a long period of time. These side effects can also affect romantic relationships. They might also lead to frustration or other emotional distress.

Talking to a therapist about changes in mood can help, especially if Adderall otherwise helps improve ADHD or other symptoms you experience.

Long-term use of Adderall at high doses can cause significant side effects, including changes in how your brain produces neurotransmitters. But many of these side effects may be reversible once you stop taking Adderall.

Experts are still studying the potential long-term effects of Adderall, especially when it’s taken at high doses.

Some physical side effects associated with Adderall use, such as heart damage, may not improve over time.

Taking Adderall under a doctor’s supervision, at a dose prescribed by a doctor, is usually not associated with permanent brain changes.

If you experience unwanted side effects, talk to your healthcare provider. If you’ve been taking Adderall without a prescription, it’s even more important to get medical support, especially if you’re becoming dependent on the drug.

Adderall is known to be helpful for people with ADHD. It can help reduce impulsiveness and promote increased focus, concentration, and memory. But along with these beneficial effects, you could also experience unwanted side effects.

If you stop taking Adderall, these side effects usually begin clearing up within a few days, but it may take several days for the drug to completely leave your system.

If you’ve taken high doses of Adderall for a long time, you might experience withdrawal when you stop. Medical support can help you manage withdrawal symptoms as you slowly decrease usage until you’re no longer using the drug.

Stopping use suddenly isn’t recommended. Talk to your healthcare provider about tapering off Adderall. They can help determine a safe decrease in dosage and monitor and treat side effects.

Talking to a therapist can help if you’re struggling with mood changes or other mental health symptoms. Therapy can also help you work through cravings and other side effects of addiction.

Adderall is generally safe for most people to use. But it can cause side effects, some of which can be serious.

Talk to your doctor right away if you experience:

heart palpitations
paranoia
delusions or hallucinations
changes in mood, including irritability, depression, or anxiety
thoughts of suicide

If any of your symptoms seem serious or make you feel concerned, talk to your healthcare provider. You should always let your doctor know about any side effects you experience while taking medication.

If you become pregnant or want to become pregnant, let your healthcare provider know right away. Adderall isn’t considered safe for use during pregnancy.

Let your doctor know about any existing health conditions before you start taking Adderall. You shouldn’t take Adderall with some medications or if you have certain health issues.

Although Adderall can cause a number of different side effects, many of these — especially those associated with long-term use — are rare when you take Adderall at a dose prescribed by your doctor.

You’re more likely to experience side effects when you take Adderall at higher doses, or if you aren’t taking Adderall to treat a specific condition.

Medical experts consider Adderall a drug that’s generally safe for many people. But it’s important to tell your doctor about any side effects you experience.

If Adderall causes unwanted side effects that affect your day-to-day functioning or quality of life, your doctor may lower your dose or suggest a different drug.

Stopping Adderall suddenly can cause other unwanted side effects. If you’re having trouble with Adderall, talk to a healthcare provider who can help you get off the drug safely.

You may worry how a healthcare provider will react if you’ve been taking Adderall, or any other drug, without a prescription. But side effects of Adderall can be serious, sometimes even life-threatening, so it’s best to get help sooner rather than later.

Adderall side effects and how to avoid them

Decreased appetite, dry mouth, and trouble sleeping are common Adderall side effects, which are usually temporary. However, long-term use of Adderall could cause some more lasting side effects.

Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant that treats the hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive symptoms of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) in adults and children as young as 3 years old. It is also prescribed to alleviate daytime sleepiness in adults and children 6 years and older diagnosed with narcolepsy.

The active ingredients in Adderall are amphetamine salts. Adderall XR contains the same mixture of amphetamine salts in an extended-release oral capsule. Like all stimulants, Adderall has several side effects, warnings, restrictions, and drug interactions that patients or their caregivers should be familiar with when taking or administering this medication.

RELATED: Learn more about Adderall

Common side effects of Adderall

The most common side effects of Adderall are:

Decreased appetite
Dry mouth
Trouble sleeping
Stomach ache
Headache
Nervousness
Weight loss
Mood swings
Anxiety
Agitation
Nausea
Vomiting
Dizziness
Diarrhea
Fast heartbeat (tachycardia)
Lack of energy
Constipation

Weight loss

Loss of appetite and weight loss are possible side effects of Adderall. Because of these side effects, some physicians prescribe Adderall off-label for weight loss, and some people acquire the drug illegally for the same purpose. However, Adderall is not approved by the FDA as a weight-loss medication and can have serious side effects that outweigh the benefits of weight loss.

Anxiety

In Adderall XR clinical trials, anxiety was reported in 8% of adults, but not reported for children or adolescents. Anxiety is also a possible sign of Adderall abuse. Severe anxiety or panic attacks may require the discontinuation of Adderall treatment.

Serious side effects of Adderall

Because Adderall changes how the brain works, the drug can produce several serious side effects even at recommended doses. These include:

Heart-related problems such as increased blood pressure and heart rate, which can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and sudden death (mostly in people with heart problems or heart defects)
Mental health problems such as the worsening or emergence of psychosis, mania, or tics
Aggressive behavior
Seizures
Peripheral vasculopathy (blood vessel damage), including Raynaud’s disease
Eyesight changes
Serotonin syndrome, or a rare but potentially life-threatening condition when drugs like Adderall are combined with other drugs that increase levels of serotonin in the brain
Growth suppression in children and adolescents
Potentially severe allergic reactions

Adderall withdrawal

When Adderall is taken in high doses over a prolonged period, stopping the drug suddenly can cause adverse effects such as depression, fatigue, increased appetite, agitation, slowness, sleeping too much, or trouble sleeping. Nicknamed “Adderall crash,” these symptoms are actually amphetamine withdrawal symptoms. Initial withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 24 hours of stopping amphetamines and can persist as less severe symptoms for about three weeks. To avoid withdrawal, a prescribing physician or healthcare professional may steadily reduce the Adderall dose until the drug can be safely discontinued.

Anxiety

Other side effects

Sexual side effects

Amphetamines can decrease sex drive and even cause impotence (erectile dysfunction). Both effects were reported by 2% to 4% of adults participating in Adderall XR clinical trials. Alternative medications, such as Ritalin (methylphenidate) for ADHD and the narcolepsy drugs modafinil and armodafinil may be less likely to cause a decrease in libido. Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) can cause similar sexual side effects as Adderall, and Strattera (atomoxetine), another ADHD drug, may also cause sexual side effects.

Dependency, abuse, and misuse

Adderall and Adderall XR are both Schedule II controlled substances because of their potential for drug abuse and dependency. Adderall is sometimes misused as a weight loss aid or “study drug” by high-school and college students. Prolonged high doses of Adderall can cause dependency and withdrawal symptoms when withdrawn suddenly.

How long do Adderall side effects last?

Side effects of Adderall are usually temporary, and they often go away with consistent use of the medication or when the medicine is discontinued. Some severe side effects such as heart-related problems could lead to life-threatening events like heart attacks and strokes. Although rare, the effects of growth suppression in children and adolescents could last a lifetime if the drug is not discontinued.

The long-term use of Adderall may lead to heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy), brain chemistry changes, or drug abuse. Heart and brain damage have been well-documented in people abusing amphetamines over a prolonged period but have not been well-studied in people taking amphetamines at therapeutic doses. There is some concern that long-term therapeutic use of amphetamines may be a “gateway” to illicit drug use, but the evidence is not conclusive. Taking Adderall under the supervision of a doctor and with a valid prescription generally does not result in brain damage or substance abuse.

Adderall contraindications & warnings

Like all prescription drugs, Adderall and Adderall XR are not appropriate or safe for everyone. The amphetamines in Adderall can worsen existing medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart problems, and psychotic disorders, such as bipolar disorder or Tourette’s syndrome. For these reasons, Adderall and Adderall XR are contraindicated for people with:

Advanced arteriosclerosis
Moderate to severe high blood pressure
Symptomatic cardiovascular disease
Glaucoma
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
Agitated states
Patients with a history of drug abuse
Know hypersensitivity to amphetamines

Adderall should be used with caution in people with:

A history of seizures or who have had an abnormal brain wave test (EEG)
Mental health conditions such as psychosis, bipolar disorder, or Tourette syndrome
High blood pressure
Kidney problems
A history of circulation problems in the fingers and toes

Adderall withdrawal

Overdose

Adderall carries the risk for overdose in part because of its potential for drug abuse or misuse. The maximum recommended daily dose of Adderall is 40 mg a day for ADHD and 60 mg a day for narcolepsy, but symptoms of an overdose can occur at lower doses. These symptoms include:

Restlessness
Tremor
Fast breathing
Overactive reflexes
Confusion
Aggression
Hallucinations
Panic
High fever
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal cramps
Muscle pain
High or low blood pressure
Irregular heartbeat

A fatal overdose is often preceded by convulsions and coma. If an overdose is suspected, call a poison helpline or go to an emergency room.

Children

Adderall has been FDA approved for children between the ages of 3 and 17 for the treatment of ADHD and for children older than 6 diagnosed with narcolepsy. Adderall XR, however, is only approved for children between the ages of 6 and older. Unfortunately, the long-term effects of the pediatric use of amphetamines have not been well-studied.

One significant and common side effect of Adderall is the suppression of growth in children. Over time, children taking Adderall may gain less weight and height than other children. Falling behind on growth is one reason Adderall may be discontinued in children.

Pregnancy

The safety of Adderall in pregnant women has not been fully established, but the drug may cause premature birth, low birth weight, and amphetamine withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. Women who are pregnant or considering pregnancy should discuss the benefits and possible risks of taking Adderall during pregnancy. Pregnant women taking Adderall or Adderall XR may choose to join the National Pregnancy Registry for Psychiatric Medications to help track Adderall’s effects on pregnancy.

Breastfeeding

Nursing women should avoid taking Adderall or Adderall XR while breastfeeding. The amphetamines in Adderall can be present in breast milk at anywhere from 2% to 14% of the dose taken. Adverse effects on nursing babies have not been well-documented, but there is a possibility the infant may experience serious cardiovascular side effects or other adverse effects.

Senior citizens

The use of Adderall in people older than 65 has not been studied.

Adderall interactions

Adderall has several drug interactions patients or caregivers should review before taking or administering Adderall.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)—CONTRAINDICATED: MAO inhibitors are a small family of prescription medications that treat depression (isocarboxazid, tranylcypromine, and phenelzine), bacterial infections (linezolid or tedizolid), cancer (procarbazine), Parkinson’s disease (selegiline and safinamide), or are used for medical imaging (methylene blue). Adderall should never be taken within 14 days of the last dose of an MAO inhibitor. The combination can cause a potentially fatal rise in blood pressure or result in serotonin syndrome, a potentially hazardous drug reaction that occurs when too much serotonin persists in the brain.
Serotonergic drugs: Serotonergic drugs raise serotonin levels in the brain. Adderall is a serotonergic drug. Combining two or more serotonergic drugs raises the risk of serotonin syndrome. Serotonergic drugs that should be avoided or used cautiously with Adderall include certain antidepressants, antipsychotic medications, mood stabilizers, other stimulants, opioids, migraine medications, antinausea drugs, seizure medications, and drugs that treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Some of these drugs, when combined with Adderall, may increase the risk of seizures.
Stimulants: The amphetamines in Adderall are classified as stimulants. They “speed up” the brain, causing possible side effects such as high blood pressure, fast heartbeat, and anxiety. Combining Adderall with other stimulants, such as caffeine, amphetamines, nasal decongestants, bronchodilators, and appetite suppressants may increase the likelihood or severity of side effects.
Sympathomimetics: The amphetamines in Adderall are also sympathomimetic drugs, which stimulate sympathetic nerves responsible for regulating blood pressure, heart rate, and sweating. Taking Adderall with other sympathomimetic medications such as other amphetamines, decongestants, and weight loss medications (including phentermine, phendimetrazine, diethylpropion, and benzphetamine all of which are contraindicated) can increase the risk of cardiovascular side effects.
Tricyclic antidepressants: Tricyclic antidepressants can cause a sharp increase in the concentration of dextroamphetamine in the brain, raising the risk of cardiovascular events.
Blood pressure medications (antihypertensives): Because one of the side effects of Adderall is high blood pressure, Adderall can reduce the beneficial effects of blood pressure lowering medications.
Glaucoma medications: The amphetamines in Adderall also increase pressure in the eye, blunting the positive effects of glaucoma medications.
Adrenergic blockers: Sometimes called alpha blockers and beta blockers, adrenergic blockers interfere with nerve signals to muscles in the heart and blood vessels. They are used to treat high blood pressure, chest pain, and irregular heartbeats. The amphetamines in Adderall can counteract the action of these drugs, reducing their important and life-saving benefits.
CYP2D6 inhibitors: Several types of drugs, called CYP2D6 inhibitors, block the liver enzyme (CYP2D6) the body uses to break down Adderall. The most potent include some selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), certain antiviral drugs, and quinidine. Healthcare professionals are well-versed in these drugs, so always tell a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider about any medications being taken when getting a prescription.
Acidifying agents: Drugs or foods that increase stomach acid or urinary acid can decrease the concentration of Adderall in the blood. While not strictly forbidden, acidifiers may make Adderall less effective as a therapy.
Alkalinizing agents: Drugs that decrease stomach acid or urinary acid can increase the concentration of Adderall in the blood, raising the risk of side effects. Certain alkalinizing drugs, like antacids, some thiazides, and urinary alkalinizing agents, should be avoided when taking Adderall.

This may not be a complete list of possible drug interactions with Adderall.

How to avoid Adderall side effects

People taking Adderall commonly experience side effects, particularly loss of appetite, dry mouth, and trouble sleeping. There are, however, potentially more worrisome but rare side effects such as elevated blood pressure or fast heartbeats patients or caregivers may be concerned about. A few tips can help reduce or prevent side effects:

1. Take Adderall as directed

Take the dose as prescribed and read the medication guide or patient instructions that come with the medicine. For maximum benefit, take Adderall daily unless directed otherwise. Adderall can be taken with or without food. However, foods that increase stomach acid, such as citrus juice, may decrease the body’s absorption of the drug, decreasing its effectiveness. Above all, do not increase the dose or use the medication for another purpose, such as weight loss or studying.

2. Take the first dose of Adderall right after waking up in the morning

The first Adderall dose should be taken upon waking in the morning. Adderall XR should only be taken in the morning.

3. Do not take a late dose of Adderall

To prevent sleeplessness, a common complaint of Adderall users, avoid taking doses late in the afternoon or early evening. Adderall XR should not be taken in the afternoon.

4. Tell your doctor about all medical conditions and medications

Because of the risk of side effects, you should tell your prescribing doctor or healthcare provider about:

Any medical conditions, such as heart, circulation, or blood pressure problems, as well as an overactive thyroid or a history of seizures
Psychiatric conditions, especially schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or Tourette’s syndrome
Any history of substance abuse
All medications, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and remedies being taken

5. Avoid taking other stimulants

Other types of stimulants, like caffeine and nasal decongestants, may worsen Adderall’s side effects, so use them conservatively.

6. Avoid antacids and other alkalinizing agents

Substances that reduce stomach or urinary acid can increase the risk of Adderall’s side effects. The most common alkalinizing agents are antacids. They should be avoided outright when taking Adderall.

7. Practice good sleep hygiene

Insomnia is one of the most common side effects of Adderall. One area to consider in overcoming amphetamine-induced sleeplessness is good sleep hygiene—go to bed at the same time each night, relax before bedtime, avoid overstimulation, take a break from devices immediately before bed, exercise every day, and maintain a sleep log to track what works and what doesn’t.

8. Take a medication holiday

When Adderall side effects become a problem, many healthcare providers suggest taking a “medication holiday” when the medication is discontinued or the dose reduced for a few days, a few weeks, or even a few months. However, get professional medical advice first. Taking a medication holiday may not be appropriate for some people.

Resources:

Adderall, Epocrates
Adderall XR, Epocrates
Adderall prescribing information, U. S. National Library of Medicine
Adderall XR prescribing information, U.S. National Library of Medicine
Amphetamine aspartate monohydrate/amphetamine sulfate/dextroamphetamine saccharate/dextroamphetamine sulfate—drug summary, Prescriber’s Digital Reference
Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine, StatPearls
Drug holidays from ADHD medication: International experience over the past four decades, Journal of Attention Disorders
Misuse of “study drugs”: prevalence, consequences, and implications for policy, Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy
Orgasmolepsy in narcolepsy type 1 responsiveness to pitolisant: a case report, Nature and Science of Sleep
Potential adverse effects of amphetamine treatment on brain and behavior: A review, Molecular Psychiatry
Profile of sexual and genitourinary treatment-emergent adverse events associated with atomoxetine treatment: a pooled analysis, Drug Safety
Stimulant Use Disorder, Family Practice Notebook
The treatment of narcolepsy with amphetamine-based stimulant medications: A call for better understanding, Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine

Adderall makes you poop? (and other side effects)

Adderall may benefit people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. But with good effects also come potential side effects. While most are mild, you may be surprised by others, including indigestion and diarrhea.

Continue reading to find out how Adderall works, how it affects your digestive system, and other possible side effects.

How Adderall works

Doctors classify Adderall as a central nervous system stimulant. It increases the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in two ways:

It signals the brain to release more neurotransmitters.
It keeps neurons in the brain from receiving neurotransmitters, making them more available.

Physicians are aware of some of the effects that increased levels of dopamine and norepinephrine have on the body. However, they don't know exactly why Adderall has beneficial effects on behavior and concentration in people with ADHD.

How Adderall Affects the Digestive System

Adderall's packaging lists many potential drug-related side effects. This includes:

constipation
diarrhea
nausea
abdominal pain
vomiting

If you think a medicine can cause both diarrhea and constipation, that's strange, you're right. But people can react to medications in different ways.

Fight or flight hormones

As previously mentioned, Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant. The drug increases the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in the human body.

Doctors associate these neurotransmitters with your fight or flight response. The body releases hormones when you are worried or afraid. These hormones improve concentration, improve blood flow to the heart and head, and essentially equip your body with greater ability to escape from a frightening situation.

Constipation

When it comes to the gastrointestinal tract, fight-or-flight hormones normally divert blood from the gastrointestinal tract to organs such as the heart and head. They do this by constricting the blood vessels that carry blood to the stomach and intestines.

As a result, intestinal transit time slows down and constipation may occur.

Abdominal pain and nausea

Restricted blood flow can also cause side effects such as abdominal pain and nausea. Occasionally, Adderall's vasoconstrictive properties can cause serious side effects, including intestinal ischemia, when the intestines do not receive enough blood flow.

Feces and diarrhea

Adderall can also make you poop and even cause diarrhea.

One of the potential side effects of Adderall is increased nervousness or restlessness. These strong emotions can affect the connection between a person's brain and stomach and lead to increased stomach motility. This includes bloating feeling that you should be going right now.

The initial dose of Adderall releases amphetamines into the body, which can cause a "fight or flight" response. After this initial maximum is gone, they may leave the body with the opposite reaction. This includes faster digestion, which is part of the body's parasympathetic or "resting and digesting" system.

Doctors also usually prescribe Adderall to be taken first thing in the morning when you have breakfast. Sometimes the time you take your medicine and eat (and maybe drink coffee, a bowel stimulant) makes you feel like you're pooping more.

Some people may find that Adderall irritates their stomach. It can also lead to increased urination.

What are the main side effects of Adderall?

In addition to the gastrointestinal side effects of Adderall, there are other common side effects. This includes:

Headaches
High blood pressure
Foundation of pulse
Sensus
mood swings, such as irritability or increased anxiety
Nervous

usually prescribes a low possible possible premium, so much accommodate, accommodated. that it is effective. Taking a lower dose should help minimize side effects.

Serious side effects

Serious side effects occurred in a very small percentage of people. This includes a phenomenon known as sudden cardiac death. For this reason, a doctor will usually ask if you or anyone in your family has had heart abnormalities or heart rhythm problems before prescribing Adderall.

Examples of other serious and rare side effects that may occur with Adderall include:

cardiomyopathy or heart enlargement
cerebrovascular accident or stroke
peripheral vascular disease when the arteries or veins in the body become constricted and blood does not flow to the extremities as well
psychosis sees what is not there
Raynaud's disease , a disorder that affects blood flow to the fingers and toes
seizures
Stevens-Johnson syndrome severe allergic reaction that causes a severe, painful, and potentially life-threatening skin rash

Seek immediate medical attention

If you or a loved one are taking Adderall, seek emergency care if you notice:

swelling or swelling in your legs
fingers and toes that feel cold or bluish to the touch
heart palpitations
sudden unexplained skin changes such as rash or peeling of the skin
tingling and numbness in the arms and legs

These symptoms may indicate that you are having a serious reaction to Adderall.

Is it safe to take Adderall if you don't have ADHD or narcolepsy?

In a word, no. Adderall can have serious side effects if you take it when your doctor has not prescribed it for you.

First, Adderall can cause serious and life-threatening effects in people with a history of heart problems or serious psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder.

Second, Adderall can cause harmful side effects if you are taking other medicines, including Adderall. Examples include MAO inhibitors and some antidepressants.

Third, Adderall is a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Schedule II drug. This means that the drug has the potential for addiction, misuse, and abuse. If your doctor hasn't prescribed it for you, don't take it.

Adderall and weight loss

In a 2013 survey of 705 undergraduate students, 12 percent reported using prescription stimulants such as Adderall for weight loss.

Adderall can suppress your appetite, but remember there is a reason the Food and Drug Administration hasn't approved it as a weight loss drug. It can have too many side effects in people who take it and don't have conditions like ADHD or narcolepsy.

Appetite suppression can also cause you to miss out on essential nutrients. Consider safer and healthier ways to lose weight, such as eating healthy and exercising.

Conclusion

Adderall has a number of gastrointestinal side effects, including increased stools.

If you are not sure if your gastrointestinal reaction is due to Adderall, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if your symptoms are due to medications or something else.

Dextroamphetamine and Amphetamine | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Adult Medication

This document, provided by Lexicomp ^® , contains all the information you need to know about this medicine, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when your healthcare provider should be contacted.

Trade names: US

Adderall; Adderall XR; Mydayis

Trade names: Canada

Adderall XR; APO-Amphetamine XR; PMS-Amphetamines XR; SANDOZ Amphetamine XR; Teva-Amphetamine XR

Warning

This drug carries a risk of abuse and misuse. This drug can also be habit-forming with prolonged use. Do not use longer than prescribed by your doctor. Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you have ever abused or been dependent on any drugs or alcohol. Misuse of this drug can cause heart side effects or even sudden death.

What is this drug used for?

Used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Used to treat narcolepsy.
This drug may be used for other indications. Consult your doctor.

What should I tell my doctor BEFORE taking this drug?

If you are allergic to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods or substances. Tell your doctor about your allergies and how they have manifested.
If you or a family member has any of the following health problems: Blood vessel disease, high blood pressure, structural heart disease or other heart problems, or Tourette's syndrome or tics.
If you have any of the following health conditions: glaucoma, jitters, anxiety, or an overactive thyroid.
If you have ever had any of the following health problems: drug/drug addiction or stroke.
If you have kidney disease.
If you are taking any of the following drugs: acetazolamide or sodium bicarbonate.
If you have taken drugs for depression or Parkinson's disease in the past 14 days. These include isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, or rasagiline. An episode of very high blood pressure may occur.
If you are taking any of the following: linezolid or methylene blue.
If you are breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed while taking this drug.

This list of drugs and conditions that may interfere with this drug is not all-inclusive.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take (prescription and over-the-counter, natural products and vitamins) and any health problems you have. You need to make sure that this drug is safe for your conditions and in combination with other drugs you are already taking. Do not start or stop taking any drug or change the dosage without your doctor's advice.

What do I need to know or do while taking this drug?

Tell all your health care workers that you are taking this drug. These are doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
Avoid driving or doing other tasks or jobs that require alertness or keen eyesight until you know how this drug affects you.
If this drug is taken for a long time or at high doses, it may not work as well and you may need a higher dose to get the same effect. The so-called tolerance to the drug develops. Talk to your doctor if this drug stops working as you want. Do not take the drug in higher doses than prescribed by your doctor.
Long-term or regular use of this drug may lead to dependence. Sudden discontinuation of this drug may lead to so-called "withdrawal" symptoms. Talk to your doctor before reducing your dose or stopping this drug. You must follow the doctor's instructions. If you experience any side effects, check with your doctor.
You may need to have a heart test before you start taking this drug. If you have any questions, please consult your doctor.
This drug may cause high blood pressure.
Measure blood pressure and heart rate as directed by your physician.
Perform blood tests as directed by your physician. Consult with your doctor.
This drug may affect the results of some lab tests. Tell all your health care workers and laboratory staff that you are taking this drug.
Do not take antacids with this drug.
You may need to avoid drinking alcoholic beverages with certain drugs. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you should not drink alcoholic beverages containing this medicine.
New or worsening of existing mood and behavior changes, such as changes in thinking, anger and hallucinations, have been reported with this drug. If you or someone in your blood family has been diagnosed with a mental or emotional disorder, such as depression or bipolar disorder, or if someone in your family has committed suicide, tell your doctor. If you experience hallucinations, movement disorders, or signs of emotional distress such as depression, suicidal thoughts, nervousness, emotional ups and downs, distorted thinking, anxiety, or decreased interest in life, see your doctor immediately.
This drug may increase the risk of seizures in some people, including people who have had seizures in the past. Talk to your doctor to find out if your risk of seizures is increased with this drug.
Taking this drug with some other drugs can cause a bad and sometimes deadly condition called serotonin syndrome. Call your doctor right away if you experience agitation, balance problems, confusion, hallucinations, high fever, tachycardia or abnormal heart rhythms, flushing, muscle twitching or stiffness, seizures, tremors or tremors, excessive sweating, severe diarrhea, nausea or vomiting , severe headache.
In some cases, the drug may affect the growth rate in children and adolescents. They may need regular growth rate checks. Consult your doctor.
Different brands of this drug may be for use in children of different ages. Talk to your doctor before giving this drug to a child.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. The benefits and risks of taking this drug during pregnancy will need to be discussed.

Which side effects should I report to my doctor immediately?

WARNING. In rare cases, this drug can cause serious and sometimes deadly side effects in some patients. Call your doctor right away or get medical help if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be associated with serious side effects:

Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or flaking, possibly associated with fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Signs of high blood pressure, such as a very severe headache, or dizziness, or loss of consciousness, or blurred vision.
Signs of a urinary tract infection, including blood in the urine, burning or pain when urinating, frequent or immediate urge to urinate, fever, pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis.
Inability to achieve or maintain an erection.
Change in sexual desire.
Convulsions.
For problems with body control.
Anxiety.
Vision change.
Frequent or prolonged erections (hardening of the penis).
Change the color of hands, feet or other areas. The skin may become pale, bluish, grey, purplish, or red.
Numbness, pain, tingling or coldness in the hands or feet.
Any ulceration or sore on fingers or toes.
Pain or weakness in the muscles, dark urine, difficulty urinating.
Myocardial infarction, stroke and sudden death have happened in adults who have taken this drug. Sudden deaths have also been reported in children with some cardiac disorders or heart defects. Call your doctor right away if you have a fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; weakness on 1 side of the body; difficulty speaking or thinking; imbalance; omission of 1 side of the face; changes in vision; chest pain or angina; dyspnea; severe dizziness or fainting.

What are some other side effects of this drug?

Any medicine can have side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Call your doctor or seek medical help if these or any other side effects bother you or persist:

Nervousness and agitation.
Headache.
Sleep disorders.
Constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite.
Feeling dizzy, tired or weak.
Dry mouth.
Violation of taste perception. This is
Weight loss.

This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, please contact your doctor. Talk to your doctor about side effects.

You can report side effects to the National Health Board.

You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

What is the best way to take this drug?

Use this drug as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.

Tablets:

Take this drug with or without food.
Take your last daily dose at least 4 hours before bedtime.

Sustained release capsules:

Take this drug with or without food. Some medications need to be taken the same way each time, either with or without food. You must know for sure if this drug is taken with food. If you have any doubts about whether the drug is dependent on food, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Take in the morning.
Swallow whole. Do not chew, break or crush.
You can sprinkle the contents of the capsule on applesauce. Don't chew.
Take the dose immediately after mixing. Do not store for future use.

All editions:

Talk to your doctor before taking an over-the-counter drug that can raise blood pressure. These drugs include cough and cold medicines, diet pills, stimulants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen, and some natural products.

What if I miss a dose of a drug?

Tablets:

Take the missed dose as soon as you can.
If it is time for your next dose, do not take the missed dose and then return to your regular dosing schedule.
Do not take 2 doses or an additional dose at the same time.

Sustained release capsules:

Skip the forgotten dose and return to your regular schedule.
Do not take the drug later in the day.

How do I store and/or discard this drug?

Store at room temperature, protected from light. Store in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
Keep this drug in a protected place out of sight and reach of children and out of the reach of other people. A box or room that is locked with a key can act as a secure storage place for the drug. Keep all medicines out of the reach of pets.
Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.

General information about medicines

If your health does not improve or even worsens, contact your doctor.
Do not give your medicine to anyone or take other people's medicine.
Some medicines may come with other patient information sheets. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
A separate patient leaflet is included with this product. Please read this information carefully. Reread it each time you refill your supply. If you have any questions about this drug, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical attention right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.

Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability

This summary information includes summaries of diagnosis, treatment and/or drug product. It is not intended to be a comprehensive source of data and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or evaluate potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a particular patient.

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