Stephanie Sarkis, Ph.D., a psychotherapist who specializes in ADHD, told Bustle that changes in stimulant efficacy can differ from person to person. If you are already using caffeine or stimulant medications, don’t stop without talking to your doctor, as withdrawal symptoms may occur. People who take Adderall for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) sometimes experience side effects when they first start the medication. In many cases, the body develops a tolerance to these side effects, and they go away.
Once an effective dosage is determined, that dosage can often be continued for long periods of time without any loss of effectiveness. Adderall and methylphenidate are both commonly used to treat ADHD. They’re both stimulant medications and work in a similar way. Adderall and modafinil are both available in brand-name and generic versions. The generic versions of medications typically cost less.
- This list does not contain all types of drugs that may interact with Adderall.
- “Immediate release” means the drug is released into your body right away.
- But if they become bothersome, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
This is important to do because some medications can interact with Adderall. Adderall works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine, in your brain. Call your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction to Adderall. But if you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number. Here’s a list of some of the mild side effects that Adderall can cause. To learn about other mild side effects, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
A boxed warning is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous. Like most drugs, Adderall may cause mild or serious side effects. The lists below describe some of the more common side effects that Adderall may cause.
You can also read the prescribing information for Adderall and Adderall XR. “Immediate release” means the drug is released into your body right away. “Extended release” means the drug is slowly released into your body over a long period of time.
For Children
Adderall is safe to use long term when taken at doctor-recommended dosages. For many people, common side effects such as loss of appetite, residential programs dry mouth, or insomnia are reduced with continued use of the drug. Both forms of Adderall are available as generic medications.
Accessible medication containers and labels
Tolerance occurs when your body gets used to the effects of a medication and no longer responds in the same way. In some cases, this can require increasing the dosage of a drug to get the same effect. If your doctor has prescribed Adderall and you’re interested in the generic version instead, talk with your doctor. They may have a preference for one version or the other. You’ll also need to check your insurance plan, as it may only cover one or the other. The actual price you’ll pay depends on your insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you use.
What are Adderall’s side effects?
She’s scoured TikTok for natural remedies, none of which have helped. But she also pointed out that her medication is critical to getting through the day. Without it, her ADHD symptoms are in overdrive, making it harder to find the energy to solve the problem. Some Adderall users are switching prescriptions altogether, but with mixed results. Netania Ogawa, who’s 23 and living in Salt Lake City, has taken prescription medication for her ADHD since 2017.
Withdrawal symptoms can include extreme fatigue, depression, and sleep disruption. These medications should only be taken together if your doctor prescribes them. Combining Adderall and Zoloft can increase your risk of developing serotonin syndrome, a drug reaction that can be dangerous.
The caffeine found in your morning cup of coffee is also a stimulant. When they are taken together, they can intensify each other’s effects. To steer clear of undesirable reactions, here’s what you need to know. However, when Adderall is used in recommended therapeutic dosages, tolerance to its treatment effects usually doesn’t occur.
Adderall half-life
Because Adderall and Vyvanse are very similar medications, they also have similar side effects and drug interactions. The following information describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. However, be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to suit your needs. Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency.
Caffeine is a natural substance that may impact ADHD symptoms and medication. For this reason, it’s important to monitor your caffeine intake to see how it affects you. Caffeine is known for its stimulating effects, which can appeal to those who are diagnosed with ADHD, but these effects tend to be short-lived.
According to Medical News Today, ADHD is a disorder in which children and adults have difficulty staying focused. People who suffer from ADHD may also struggle to sit still and may react quickly in situations or be impulsive. Adderall is also used to treat a condition known as narcolepsy. This chronic sleep disorder is known to make people suffer from sudden sleep attacks or overwhelming feelings of drowsiness. The DEA considers Adderall a schedule II prescription drug, meaning there is a high potential for Adderall abuse and dependence. Adderall is a prescription medication that contains amphetamine, a central nervous system stimulant.
For those who take Adderall daily, it’s recommended that you limit your caffeine intake. Instead of having several cups of coffee, most doctors feel it is best to stick to 1 cup, which is roughly 100 mg of caffeine. Some of the side effects of caffeine include shakiness ecstasy withdrawal and detox symptoms and timelines and nervousness. Some people describe it as having the “jitters.” It can increase your heart rate and raise your blood pressure. Caffeine can make it hard to get to sleep or stay asleep. It can also intensify symptoms of anxiety disorder or panic attacks.