Adderall Side Effects

Adderall and its Side Effects

In 1996 the FDA approved Adderall for unrestricted use for treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder and narcolepsy. Since then, Adderall has quickly become a favorite for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD in children. Adderall is helpful in controlling mental disorders but proper usage is a must.

Adderall is an amphetamine that works alike on children and adults. If not used properly, adults and children are exposed to the risk of side effects of Adderall. These side effects may result either simultaneously with the use of Adderall or may manifest after Adderall is used for some time. It should also be kept in mind that Adderall is not recommended for children under 5 years of age since safety and effectiveness has not been established in this age group.

In most cases, the Adderall side effects are mild but some Adderall side effects, though rare can be life threatening. It is important that you talk to your doctor about the expected side effects of this drug and how to avoid them.

Common Adderall Side Effects Include:

• Loss of appetite
  
• weight loss
  
• Insomnia
  
• Headache
  
• Dizziness

Other Side Effects Include:

• Unpleasant taste
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Nausea
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Diarrhea or constipation
  
• Addiction
  
• Phonetic tics
  
• Hallucinations

These rare symptoms have also been reported as Adderall side effects

Adderall's Effects on Nervous System

Adderall can also affect the nervous system and cause euphoria, feelings of suspicion and paranoia, nervousness, irritability, over stimulation as well as feelings of restlessness. In some cases, tolerance or the constant need to raise the dosage of Adderall has also been reported by the patients.

Adderall and Heart Trouble

Adderall side effects can result in high blood pressure, rapid pulse rate, elevated blood pressure, increased heart rate and cardiomyopathy, a disorder of the heart muscle.

Adderall and Tourette’s Syndrome

Tourette’s syndrome has also been associated with Adderall. Tourette's syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by facial grimaces and tics and movements of the upper body, grunts, shouts and coprolalia which is accompanied by mental disorders.

Impairment of Judgment

Adderall can impair judgment and the ability to engage in potentially hazardous activities like operating machinery, vehicles and sports participation.

Things to be Avoided to Prevent Side Effects

• Fruit juices can lower absorption of Adderall. Alkalinizing agents such as Diamox heighten the absorption of Adderall medication.
  
• Thorazine, lithium, and Haldol can decrease the effects of Adderall medication.
  
• Tricyclic antidepressants may increase their levels when taken with Adderall medication.
  
• Parents should note that serious, even fatal, Adderall medication interactions can occur if Adderall is taken with MAO Inhibitors.
  
• Adderall should be administered at the lowest effective dosage and dosage should be individually adjusted to avoid harmful Adderall side effects.