Adderall is a branded medication that contains a combination of the drugs amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It’s a stimulant drug that can help manage ADHD and narcolepsy.

When you use it according to a doctor’s recommendations, it can have several positive effects and improve the quality of life of people with these conditions.

However, Adderall can cause serious side effects if you use it without medical supervision. While Adderall can help improve focus and manage impulsive behaviors, taking it without the advice of a specialist can lead to dangerous and potentially life threatening complications.

How it works

Three children drawing on a large piece of paper on the floor. They may take Adderall which can have different effects on the body. — Elizabethsalleebauer/Getty Images

Adderall is an amphetamine drug that increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your body. The generic version is called amphetamine-dextroamphetamine.

Amphetamines also block dopamine and norepinephrine from being reabsorbed in your brain after they carry their electrical information, so they stay in your brain for longer.

The increased levels of dopamine can help reinforce rewarding behaviors, helping you find it easier to perform more challenging tasks. Norepinephrine can help you become more focused and awake by increasing your heart rate and blood pressure and constricting your blood vessels.

Adderall also comes in an extended-release formula (Adderall XR). The immediate-release formula lasts 4–6 hours and peaks in about 3 hours. The action of the extended-release tablet is usually 8–12 hours, peaking in 7 hours.

Adderall can be very effective in treating ADHD when you use it along with other types of treatment, such as behavioral therapy, or as part of a wider treatment plan, including social and educational therapies.

Adderall can have similar effects on people who do not have ADHD. Taking this medication without following the guidance of a doctor can cause serious side effects and health complications.

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Effects on the mind

Adderall can help improve attention and focus in people with ADHD, reducing impulsive behavior and hyperactivity due to the increased levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Taking Adderall can stimulate the brain, providing a feeling of well-being and euphoria.

When you take Adderall as prescribed by a doctor, you may feel more focused and calm. Adderall may also keep you more awake during the day, reducing the symptoms of narcolepsy.

Releasing dopamine and norepinephrine in your body can help you stay focused during the day and perform tasks that you previously found annoying or challenging.

In short, Adderall can reduce symptoms of ADHD. For example:

If you usually feel restless, you may feel calmer.
If you have trouble concentrating, you may notice increased focus.
If you experience impulsivity, this may lessen.

Effects on the body

Adderall can have several physical effects on your body. When you start taking it, you might notice some effects on your body. This will let you know the drug is getting to work.

Taking this drug can raise your blood pressure by constricting your blood vessels. Adderall can also increase your heart and breathing rate. These effects relate to the release of norepinephrine in your body.

This may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with pre-existing heart conditions or other underlying conditions that can affect the cardiocirculatory system. If you have a heart condition, you may have to undergo additional evaluations to determine whether it is safe for you to take Adderall.

Some research warns that Adderall may have effects on your digestive system by increasing the amount of glucose released into your body, raising your blood sugar. However, the evidence on this is limited. Individuals can respond to the drug differently, so if you have concerns about blood sugar, you should speak with a doctor.

Stimulant medications like Adderall can also lead to loss of appetite and weight loss. This may also cause problems with growth in children. If this happens, doctors may stop Adderall treatment.

Side effects

Adderall can cause both psychological and physical side effects.

The physical side effects that Adderall may cause include:

decreased appetite
stomach ache
constipation or diarrhea
nausea and vomiting
headaches or dizziness
insomnia
dry mouth
hives or a rash
vision problems, such as blurry vision
increased heart rate
increased blood pressure (hypertension)
decreased sexual drive
seizures
heart attack or stroke

The psychological side effects associated with Adderall may include:

nervousness and restlessness
paranoia
hallucinations
euphoria
aggression and irritability
depression
anxiety
panic attacks
suicidal thoughts

If you experience any concerning side effects, such as a serious allergic reaction or suicidal thoughts, immediately contact a doctor or the emergency services.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide or self-harm, please seek support:

Call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24 hours a day at 988.
Text “HOME” to the Crisis Textline at 741741.
Not in the United States? Find a helpline in your country with Befrienders Worldwide.
Call 911 or your local emergency number if you feel it’s an emergency.

While you wait for help to arrive, stay with someone and remove any weapons or substances that can cause harm. You are not alone.

Summary

Adderall is a stimulant prescription medication for treating several health conditions, such as ADHD and narcolepsy. This drug increases dopamine and norepinephrine in your body. Adderall can help reduce hyperactivity, prevent daytime sleepiness, and increase focus.

Taking Adderall can cause several psychological and physical side effects. If you experience any side effects, contact a doctor. If you develop any symptoms of severe allergic reaction or suicidal thoughts, immediately contact the emergency services.

Download the free Optum Perks Discount Card to save up to 80% on many prescription medications. Plus, you can now get them delivered to your home in as little as 3 days. Search for your medication here.