UNDERSTANDING ADDERALL AND WEIGHT LOSS: RISKS, ALTERNATIVES, AND HEALTHY SOLUTIONS

INTRODUCTION

If you have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, you may take Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) to help you stay on task, get things done, and manage your symptoms.

And if you’ve been taking Adderall for a while, you may have noticed an unexpected side effect: weight loss. It’s pretty common to lose some weight while taking Adderall, which leads people to wonder if it can be used as a weight loss drug. The answer is no: it is not safe to take Adderall for weight loss, and the drug is not designed for that purpose. Read on as we explain why, and offer suggestions for what you can use instead.

DOES ADDERALL MAKE YOU LOSE WEIGHT?

Yes, Adderall can make you lose weight. Decreased appetite and weight loss are both common side effects of stimulants like Adderall IR (immediate release) and its extended-release version, Adderall XR. For example, during clinical trials of Adderall XR:

22% of children lost their appetite, and 4% lost weight
36% of teens lost their appetite, and 9% lost weight
33% of adults lost their appetite, and 10% lost weight

WHY DOES ADDERALL MAKE YOU LOSE WEIGHT?

Adderall works by stimulating your central nervous system (CNS), targeting neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. This stimulation boosts energy levels and may affect hormones like ghrelin and leptin, which regulate appetite and satiety. Consequently, you may eat less and experience weight loss.

ADDERALL WEIGHT LOSS RISKS

Using Adderall for weight loss is associated with various risks, including:

Disordered eating habits
Malnutrition, particularly concerning for children with ADHD
Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Potential for abuse and dependence
Uncomfortable side effects like insomnia and irritability
Health risks upon cessation, including fatigue and increased appetite

MANAGING ADDERALL WEIGHT LOSS

If you’re concerned about weight loss on Adderall, consider these steps:

Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: Discuss your concerns and explore strategies for managing weight loss while taking Adderall.
Follow Prescribed Dosage: Take Adderall as directed by your healthcare provider, and inform them of any new medications or supplements.
Maintain Healthy Habits: Focus on a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients and engage in regular exercise to support overall health and weight management.

ALTERNATIVES TO ADDERALL FOR WEIGHT LOSS

Several safe and effective alternatives exist for weight loss, including:

Prescription Weight Loss Pills: Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate) and Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion) are FDA-approved options that can promote weight loss when used as directed.
GLP-1 Medications: Wegovy (semaglutide) and Saxenda (liraglutide) are GLP-1 receptor agonists prescribed for weight loss, offering significant results with proper lifestyle changes.
Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet comprising fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support weight management and overall well-being.
Regular Exercise: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, following recommended guidelines for duration and intensity.

CONCLUSION

Using Adderall for weight loss isn’t a safe or sustainable solution. It poses risks and potential health complications, making it essential to explore safer alternatives and adopt healthy lifestyle habits. By working closely with your healthcare provider and prioritizing balanced nutrition and regular exercise, you can achieve sustainable weight management goals without compromising your health.

DISCLAIMER

If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

REFERENCES

Food and Drug Administration. (2021). FDA approves new drug for chronic weight management, first since 2014. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-drug-chronic-weight-management-first-2014
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889
National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/index.shtml
National Institutes of Health. (2021). Adderall. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548092/
National Library of Medicine. (2021). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/attentiondeficithyperactivitydisorder.html