Adverse effects of Adderall (INFOGRAPHIC)

Adderall causes increases in body temperature and heart rate. But in what adverse ways does it affect the brain, psychology, and behavior? We review here.

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Adderall is a prescription medicine containing a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. These central nervous system stimulants affect brain chemicals and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. What are some negative effects of Adderall? We review here.

Effects of Adderall on Body Response

  • changes in taste
  • fast heart beat
  • headaches
  • increased body temperature
  • increased light sensitivity
  • loss of appetite/ weight loss

Adverse effects of Adderall on Behavior

The acute administration of amphetamines salts in the form of Adderall can produce a wide range of dose-dependent behavioral changes. In fact, Adderall can negatively affect behavior. Although most adults use amphetamines like Adderall effectively and safely, occasional case reports indicate that prescription use can produce marked adverse events. This can include:

Adverse effects of Adderall (INFOGRAPHIC)

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  • irritability
  • aggressiveness
  • hostility
  • mood changes
  • emotional instability
  • paranoid behavior

Adverse effects of Adderall on the Brain

Assessments of central toxicity and adverse effects of adults who receive prolonged courses of amphetamine treatment are warranted. This is because long-term Adderall use can be related to :

  • damaged nerve cells
  • insomnia
  • speech problems
  • impaired motor reflexes
  • motor or verbal ticks
  • insomnia

Adverse effects of Adderall on Psychology

Adverse effects listed in drug labels of prescription amphetamines include disturbances of mood and behavior. Most of these adverse events are considered “time-limited”, resolving rapidly after discontinuation of stimulant exposure. Some of the more frequently reported effects of regular use of Adderall have included:

  • depression
  • pseudo-Hallucinations
  • mania
  • delusions
  • psychosis
  • dysphoria

Adverse effects of Adderall on Sex And Sexuality

Adderall has been linked to:

  • alterations in libido
  • erectile Disorder
  • impotence
  • loss of interest in sexual intercourse
  • problems with conception

Adverse effects of Adderall on General Health

Other adverse effects of Adderall can include:

  • inhibited growth in children
  • nervousness
  • irregular respiration
  • stomach and chest pain
  • confusion
  • lack of coordination
Reference Sources: NCBI: Potential Adverse Effects of Amphetamine Treatment on Brain and Behavior: A Review
FDA Warning Label for Adderall
NIDA: How do stimulants affect the brain and body?
About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
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