Medically Reviewed By: Manish Mishra, MBBS
Adderall is a powerful stimulant that is often prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It belongs to the amphetamine class of prescription medications.
While it can be an effective treatment for ADHD, it can also cause a number of side effects, especially in men.
These side effects can include erectile dysfunction, decreased sex drive, and testicular pain. In some cases, Adderall can also cause psychotic symptoms, such as paranoia and hallucinations.
If you experience any Adderall-related side effects, it’s important to talk to your doctor about whether Adderall is right for you.
Common Side Effects Of Adderall Use In Men
Adderall works by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, as it is a stimulant medication.
This medication is known to cause high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems when over-prescribed, but can also cause a loss of appetite which can result in unhealthy weight loss.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a potential side effect for people who are taking Adderall.
Some people report a decreased interest in sex and difficulty getting and keeping an erection. This change in sex drive or sexual performance can cause distress and embarrassment.
Other Side Effects
Adderall can cause some serious side effects depending on how it was taken and if the prescription was legitimate.
It can also cause chest pain, increased heart rate, increased blood flow, and psychological problems if mixed with antidepressants. Drug interactions are seriously advised against.
Brand name amphetamine prescriptions, such as Adderall, can also cause:
- nervousness
- dry mouth
- heart problems and the potential for heart disease
- headaches
- dizziness
- diarrhea
- hypertension and other blood pressure changes
- constricted blood vessels
- psychosis
- constipation
- tachycardia
Aside from potential allergic reactions and other physical side effects, Adderall side effects can also include psychological problems.
Mental health concerns associated with Adderall use, even with standard doses of Adderall, can include mood swings, psychosis, impulsive behavior, and more.
How Men Can Mitigate Adderall Side Effects
There are a number of ways that men can mitigate the negative side effects of Adderall use without creating other medical conditions.
Lower Dosage
Using a lower dosage to control ADHD symptoms is a simple, yet effective way to decrease some of the health conditions and adverse side effects of Adderall use.
Change ADHD Medications
Switching to other stimulant drugs that directly affect neurotransmitter activity in the central nervous system (CNS) is a good way to avoid the side effects caused by the use of Adderall.
Certain serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Lexapro and Zoloft are two options that are available to anybody considering making a medication change.
Allow Time To Adjust To Adderall
Adderall is most effective with consistent use, and a minimum period of two to three weeks, although the effects can still be felt almost immediately.
Speak with your healthcare provider if you are experiencing negative symptoms, and seek counsel to make sure you are on the right timeline before making any medication switches.
Treat ED With Medications
Certain medications such as Viagra can reverse the effects on sexual function and libido caused by Adderall — namely erectile dysfunction.
Make sure to speak to a healthcare professional about mixing both drugs before using Viagra.
Avoid Adderall Abuse
Adderall is classified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning that it has a high potential for abuse and is only available by prescription.
As such, you should be wary of an Adderall dependence, or if you notice any withdrawal symptoms occurring when you try to cut back on the medication.
Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms In Men
While Adderall is generally considered safe and effective when used as directed, there is a potential for abuse and addiction.
Misuse of Adderall, the name brand for amphetamine-dextroamphetamine prescriptions, can lead to serious side effects, including heart problems, anxiety, and psychosis.
Adderall withdrawal symptoms can occur when someone who has been using the drug regularly stops taking it suddenly.
Common withdrawal symptoms include fatigue, depression, and difficulty concentrating. In severe cases, withdrawal can also cause hallucinations and suicidal thoughts.
Treatment Options For Adderall Abuse
Fortunately, there are a number of drug abuse treatment programs and services to help you overcome addiction.
Some of Adderall addiction treatment services and programs include:
- inpatient programs
- detox
- individual and group therapy
- evidence-based therapies
- holistic treatment options
Find Substance Abuse Treatment At Bedrock Recovery Center
If you or a loved one is in search of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, give Bedrock’s free helpline a call today to discuss obtaining a referral to a rehab facility near you.
- National Institute of Health (NIH) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2670101/
- U.S. Nationial Library of Medicine: PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26147855/
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline