Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant used in the management of conditions such as Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Narcolepsy. It actually combines two other substances, Dextroamphetamine and Amphetamine, to exert its effects in a manner that distinguishes it from other stimulant medications.
While it can be responsible for multiple side effects elsewhere in the body, Adderall’s main function is to promote a sense of focus, clarity and alertness in its users, restoring a state of mind that is otherwise lacking in those with ADHD. The medication is often available in two forms (an immediate release version and extended-release capsule), allowing physicians to develop a treatment regimen tailored to a patient’s specific needs.
Adderall’s potent ability to induce attentiveness and wakefulness has made it a prime target of substance abuse. Students, athletes and other productivity seekers have turned to this medication as a way to increase energy levels and tap into its euphoric nature. Because of Adderall’s serious side effects and its potential for misuse, it is classified as a Schedule II drug.
While Adderall may be beneficial for ADHD patients, its negative side effects should not be ignored. Some common effects related to Adderall and amphetamine use in general include:
While these symptoms can sometimes be managed with dose adjustments, Adderall can also have some serious cardiovascular side effects. Because of its stimulant nature, it can impose a constricting effect on the blood vessels, increasing blood pressure and interfering with the heart’s self-regulating function. Therefore, Adderall (and stimulants in general) is often avoided in patients with uncontrolled hypertension or serious forms of heart disease (such as those with abnormal heart rhythms or a history of a heart attack).
Furthermore, as it is capable of altering psychological states, Adderall can also precipitate underlying mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
Adderall, like other stimulants, targets the nerve cells in the brain that communicate with eachother through certain chemical messengers, also known as neurotransmitters. Norepinephrine and dopamine are two of the major neurotransmitters modulated by the drug. Adderall not only induces their release from neurons but also downregulates their return into these cells, allowing them to exist in what is known as the synaptic cleft (the region between neurons where their interactions take place) for long periods of time. That’s why taking Adderall stimulates a sense of alertness and attentiveness- it essentially wakes up the regions of the brain responsible for concentration. Furthermore, because of its role in elevating dopamine levels, it can cause an initial high and confers motivation and pleasure to its users.
Adderall is notable for its gastrointestinal side effects. While their presence and intensity may vary depending on the user, there are a couple of reasons why they occur in the first place. By increasing Norepinephrine levels in the brain and spinal cord, Adderall turns on the body’s fight-or-flight response, a physiologic state induced by fearful or anxiety-inducing environments. In doing so, it activates the brain-gut connection and can cause increased digestive tract motility, leading to frequent bowel movements and diarrhea. People taking adderall may also associate it with pooping as it is commonly prescribed to be taken while eating breakfast (and possibly drinking a cup of coffee).
Adderall, by way of its fight or flight activation and vascular constriction, can affect the digestive system. It can divert blood away from certain parts of the GI tract, specifically the stomach and parts of the bowel. This is why people taking adderall may experience stomach cramps and nausea. It is also why they may paradoxically be constipated- the lack of blood flow leads to a decrease in the processing of gut contents.
As a stimulant drug, Adderall is notable for its ability to suppress appetite. Because of this, it can be abused as a weight loss drug.
If you are looking for something that can help sharpen your mental acuity and improve your cognitive function, you may want to try a nootropic. Nootropics can give you some of the positive effects of prescription stimulants without side effects like dry mouth, diarrhea, or agitation.
Nootropics include many different herbs, plants, and mushrooms that have been proven to help the brain function efficiently. Zero-In from Root Brand is one example of an effective nootropic medication.
Zero In contains velvet beans, pine bark, and turmeric root. This blend of ingredients can help improve cognition without causing a fight or flight response or leaving you feeling jittery and irritable.
Velvet bean has been shown to increase the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin in the brain, helping improve your mood and sharpen your focus. Velvet beans can even help improve symptoms of Parkinson’s disease in some patients.
Pine bark has strong antioxidant properties that can keep blood vessels in the brain open and functioning well. It has also been shown to decrease inflammation in the body and improve cognition.
Similarly, turmeric root can boost memory, improve mood, and prevent hypertension.
Zero In is also BSCG certified, meaning that there are no harmful additives, banned substances, or drug contaminants in the supplement. Since supplements are not regulated by the FDA, it is important to choose a supplement company that uses high quality ingredients and avoids harmful contaminants.
Adderall is a potent medication in the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. With that being said, it can also have some serious side effects and its use should be continuously monitored by a doctor.
While the utility of stimulants in the treatment of ADHD is undeniable, their cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and psychiatric side effect profile can be harmful if improperly managed.
People taking adderall may have gastrointestinal side effects, including:
People struggling with gastrointestinal issues after starting Adderall have a couple of options. Stomach cramping during a dose adjustment period may be managed with antacids or bismuth salts. Optimizing your diet can also be beneficial- increasing fiber intake and maintaining adequate hydration can help curb some of the constipation and diarrhea you may be struggling with. For appetite suppression, high calorie breakfasts prior to taking Adderall can ensure appropriate daily caloric intakes.
If your digestive issues are long-term, distressing or debilitating in any way, consult your doctor immediately to adjust your treatment regimen. This is especially important to prevent excessive weight loss and malnourishment.