Taking Adderall for Depression vs.
Being a Cause of It
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
Millions of Americans experience depression every year.
What Is Adderall?
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
Adderall is a combination ofamphetamineanddextroamphetamine.
As a stimulant, Adderall affects chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control.
It is used to treatattention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)andnarcolepsy.
Connection Between Adderall and Depression
Adderall and depression are linked in multiple ways.
While some people take Adderall for depression treatment, others may experience depression after taking this drug.
This drug is not an antidepressant like typical depression medications; instead, it is a stimulant.
Because stimulants can increase alertness, attention, and energy, they can feel likemood boostersfor those experiencing depression.
Many high school and college students also use it recreationally.
Once mood is regulated,cognitive functioncan be evaluated.
Depression can also occur when patients misuse Adderall.
Abruptly stopping Adderall can lead to suicidal thinking.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger,call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Even if you are diagnosed with ADHD and prescribed Adderall, you should be extremely cautious when taking it.
Stroke and myocardial infarction have occurred in some people taking prescribed stimulants for ADHD.
Peripheral vasculopathy, a circulation disorder, has occurred in people taking Adderall.
Talk to your doctor about any other medications you’re taking before taking Adderall.
Stimulant drugs have worsened psychiatric symptoms for some people, including increasing manic episodes in people with bipolar disorder.
Adderall should not be a go-to treatment for depression.
Facing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US); Office of the Surgeon General (US).
2015;32(Suppl 3):30S37S.
PMID:30766117
International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology (IJEST.org).Adderall and depression.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Label for Adderall.
National Institute on Drug Abuse.What are prescription stimulants?.
