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Is adderall an maoi. Understanding Adderall and MAOIs: Combining Stimulants with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors

Is Adderall classified as an MAOI. How do stimulants interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors. What are the potential risks and benefits of combining these medications. Can Adderall be safely used with MAOIs in treating complex psychiatric conditions.

The Nature of Adderall and Its Classification

Adderall is a widely prescribed medication for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It belongs to the class of drugs known as stimulants, specifically amphetamines. However, it’s crucial to understand its pharmacological classification accurately.

Is Adderall an MAOI? No, Adderall is not a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). It functions primarily by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This mechanism of action is distinct from that of MAOIs, which work by inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase.

Understanding Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

MAOIs represent a class of antidepressants with a unique mechanism of action. They were among the first antidepressants developed and have been used in psychiatric treatment for decades. MAOIs work by inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which is responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.

How do MAOIs differ from other antidepressants? Unlike newer antidepressants such as SSRIs or SNRIs, MAOIs affect multiple neurotransmitter systems simultaneously. This broad action can make them particularly effective for treatment-resistant depression, but it also increases the risk of interactions with other medications and certain foods.

Common MAOIs in Clinical Use

  • Phenelzine (Nardil)
  • Tranylcypromine (Parnate)
  • Isocarboxazid (Marplan)
  • Selegiline (Emsam) – available as a transdermal patch

The Controversy Surrounding Stimulant-MAOI Combinations

The combination of stimulants like Adderall with MAOIs has long been considered controversial in the medical community. This caution stems from historical cases of adverse reactions and the potential for dangerous drug interactions.

Why is combining stimulants and MAOIs considered risky? The primary concern is the potential for a hypertensive crisis or serotonin syndrome. Both stimulants and MAOIs can increase blood pressure and heart rate, and their combined effect could lead to dangerously high levels. Additionally, the complex interplay between these medications and neurotransmitter systems raises concerns about overstimulation of the central nervous system.

Reexamining the Literature: New Perspectives on Stimulant-MAOI Combinations

Recent research has begun to challenge the long-held belief that stimulants and MAOIs should never be combined. Some studies suggest that, under careful medical supervision, this combination might be beneficial for certain patients with complex psychiatric conditions.

What does recent research say about combining stimulants and MAOIs? A reexamination of the literature indicates that while caution is still warranted, the absolute contraindication of this combination may be overstated. Some case reports and small studies have shown successful treatment outcomes with carefully monitored stimulant-MAOI combinations, particularly in patients with treatment-resistant depression or comorbid ADHD and depression.

Key Findings from Recent Studies

  1. Controlled combinations may be effective for treatment-resistant cases
  2. Lower doses of both medications may mitigate risks
  3. Close monitoring is essential for safety
  4. Individual patient factors play a crucial role in outcomes

Potential Benefits of Stimulant-MAOI Combinations

While the risks of combining stimulants like Adderall with MAOIs are well-documented, emerging research suggests potential benefits for certain patient populations. This combination therapy may offer hope for individuals who have not responded adequately to standard treatments.

How might patients benefit from stimulant-MAOI combinations? For some patients with complex psychiatric presentations, such as treatment-resistant depression with comorbid ADHD, the synergistic effects of stimulants and MAOIs could provide relief where other treatments have failed. The combination may address multiple symptom domains simultaneously, potentially improving overall functioning and quality of life.

Potential Advantages of Combination Therapy

  • Enhanced mood stabilization
  • Improved cognitive function
  • Better management of ADHD symptoms
  • Potential for lower doses of each medication
  • Comprehensive approach to complex psychiatric conditions

Safety Considerations and Risk Management

Despite the potential benefits, the combination of stimulants and MAOIs carries significant risks that must be carefully managed. Proper safety protocols and close medical supervision are essential when considering this treatment approach.

What precautions are necessary when combining stimulants and MAOIs? Patients must be closely monitored for signs of hypertension, tachycardia, and serotonin syndrome. Regular blood pressure checks, ECG monitoring, and assessment of neurological symptoms are crucial. Additionally, dietary restrictions associated with MAOI use must be strictly followed to avoid potentially dangerous interactions with tyramine-rich foods.

Key Safety Measures

  1. Thorough medical evaluation before initiating combination therapy
  2. Gradual titration of medication doses
  3. Regular monitoring of vital signs and neurological status
  4. Patient education on dietary restrictions and potential side effects
  5. Emergency protocol in place for potential adverse reactions

Clinical Implications and Future Research Directions

The evolving understanding of stimulant-MAOI combinations has important implications for clinical practice and future research in psychiatry. While this approach remains controversial, it opens up new possibilities for treating complex and treatment-resistant psychiatric conditions.

How might this research impact future treatment strategies? As our understanding of the interactions between stimulants and MAOIs grows, it may lead to more personalized treatment approaches for patients with complex psychiatric presentations. Future research may focus on identifying specific patient populations that could benefit most from this combination therapy, as well as developing protocols to maximize safety and efficacy.

Areas for Future Investigation

  • Long-term safety and efficacy studies of stimulant-MAOI combinations
  • Identification of genetic or biomarkers predicting treatment response
  • Development of novel drug formulations to mitigate interaction risks
  • Exploration of alternative dosing strategies
  • Comparative studies with other treatment approaches for resistant cases

In conclusion, while Adderall is not an MAOI, the combination of stimulants like Adderall with MAOIs represents a complex and evolving area of psychiatric treatment. As research continues to shed light on the potential benefits and risks of this approach, it may offer new hope for patients with challenging psychiatric conditions. However, it’s crucial to emphasize that any consideration of stimulant-MAOI combinations should only be undertaken under close medical supervision and with a thorough understanding of the associated risks and necessary precautions.

The field of psychiatry continues to evolve, and the reexamination of previously held beliefs about drug interactions is an important part of this progress. As we gain more knowledge about the intricate workings of the brain and the complex interactions between different psychiatric medications, we may uncover new treatment strategies that can help improve outcomes for patients with difficult-to-treat conditions.

It’s important to note that the discussion of stimulant-MAOI combinations does not change the fact that Adderall itself is not an MAOI. Rather, it highlights the complex pharmacological landscape of psychiatric treatment and the ongoing need for careful, evidence-based approaches to medication management. As research in this area progresses, it will be crucial to balance the potential benefits of novel treatment combinations with a strong commitment to patient safety and well-being.

For patients and healthcare providers alike, staying informed about the latest developments in psychiatric pharmacology is essential. While the combination of stimulants and MAOIs may offer promise for some patients, it’s crucial to approach such treatment strategies with caution and under expert guidance. As always, individualized treatment plans that take into account a patient’s unique medical history, symptoms, and response to previous treatments remain the cornerstone of effective psychiatric care.

The ongoing exploration of stimulant-MAOI combinations serves as a reminder of the complexity of psychiatric disorders and the importance of continued research and innovation in the field. By carefully studying these complex pharmacological interactions, we may uncover new ways to help patients who have struggled to find relief with conventional treatments. However, it’s equally important to maintain a balanced perspective, recognizing both the potential benefits and the very real risks associated with combining powerful psychiatric medications.

As we move forward, the key will be to conduct rigorous, well-designed studies that can provide more definitive answers about the safety and efficacy of stimulant-MAOI combinations. This research should aim to identify which patients are most likely to benefit from this approach, what dosing strategies are optimal, and how best to monitor and manage potential side effects. By building a stronger evidence base, we can ensure that any future use of these combination therapies is grounded in solid scientific understanding and prioritizes patient safety.

Ultimately, the discussion surrounding Adderall, MAOIs, and their potential combination underscores the dynamic nature of psychiatric medicine. It highlights the ongoing need for healthcare providers to stay current with the latest research, maintain an open mind to new treatment possibilities, and always prioritize individualized, patient-centered care. As our understanding of brain chemistry and pharmacology continues to grow, we may find new ways to help those struggling with complex psychiatric conditions, offering hope for improved outcomes and better quality of life.

Combining Stimulants and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors: A Reexamination of the Literature and a Report of a New Treatment Combination

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Adderall and interactions: Supplements, alcohol, and more

Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) is a brand-name oral capsule that’s prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Adderall has interactions with certain drugs, foods, and supplements. Examples include TUMS (an antacid) and lithium.

An interaction occurs when one substance causes another substance to have a different effect than expected.

Keep reading to learn more about Adderall’s interactions. For additional information about Adderall, including details about its uses, see this article.

In some cases, a factor or condition could prevent your doctor from prescribing Adderall due to the risk of harm. This is known as a contraindication. The contraindications of Adderall include the ones mentioned below.

If you have a serious heart or blood vessel problem. Taking Adderall can increase your heart rate and blood pressure. If you have a serious heart or blood vessel problem, the side effects could lead to a heart attack or stroke. The side effects could also, in rare cases, lead to sudden death. In addition, Adderall could make your condition worse. Examples of serious heart and blood vessel problems include:

  • moderate to severe hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • advanced arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
  • heart disease that causes symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath

If you have hyperthyroidism. Taking Adderall can increase your heart rate and blood pressure. Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland) can also cause these symptoms. If you have hyperthyroidism, Adderall could worsen your symptoms.

If you have glaucoma. Adderall can increase the pressure in your eyes. If you have glaucoma, taking Adderall could worsen your condition.

If you have had an allergic reaction to Adderall or any of its ingredients. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Adderall or any of its ingredients, taking the drug could cause such a reaction. You could also have an allergic reaction with Adderall if you’ve had such a reaction to other drugs called amphetamines. (Adderall is a type of amphetamine.)

If you’re in an agitated state. If you’re in an agitated state, taking Adderall could worsen it. Agitation refers to feeling restless, nervous, or annoyed. Sometimes it can be due to a mental health condition.

If you have a history of drug misuse or dependence. Adderall has a risk of misuse and dependence. If you’ve misused or been dependent on drugs in the past, you may have an increased risk of these problems with Adderall. In fact, the drug has a boxed warning about this risk. This is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To learn more, see “Boxed warning: Risk of misuse and dependence” at the top of this article.

If you have recently taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor drug. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are an older class of antidepressant drugs. Adderall typically should not be taken within 14 days of taking an MAOI drug. Doing so can cause dangerous side effects, including kidney failure, heart attack, and unsafe rises in blood pressure.

If you’ve taken an MAOI recently, be sure to let your doctor know. They may still prescribe Adderall. However, they’ll likely have you wait at least 14 days from your last dose of the MAOI before you start Adderall treatment.

To learn more, see “Drug interactions in depth” below.

Note: Before you start treatment with Adderall, it’s important to tell your doctor if any of these factors apply to you. They can determine whether to prescribe Adderall.

Adderall may interact with alcohol. For example, drinking alcohol with Adderall can reduce the effects of alcohol, so you may drink more than you usually would. This can have dangerous results, such as loss of consciousness.

Drinking alcohol while taking Adderall may also increase the risk of certain side effects of the drug. These can include increased blood pressure and a fast or irregular heartbeat. Such side effects can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Drinking alcohol can also worsen symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which Adderall treats.

If you drink alcohol, talk with your doctor about how much is safe to drink with Adderall. However, in general, it’s safest to avoid drinking alcohol while you take the medication.

Before you start treatment with Adderall, tell your doctor and pharmacist which prescription, over-the-counter, and other medications you take. By sharing this information with them, you may help prevent possible interactions.

If you have questions about drug interactions that may affect you, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Here’s a chart of drugs that can interact with Adderall. Keep in mind that this chart does not include all drugs that may interact with Adderall. Some of these interactions are described in detail below in “Drug interactions in depth.”

Drug class or drug nameDrug examplesInteraction result with Adderall
monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)*• isocarboxazid (Marplan)
• linezolid (Zyvox)
• phenelzine (Nardil)
• selegiline (Emsam, Zelapar)
• tranylcypromine (Parnate)
can cause dangerous side effects
tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)• amitriptyline
• desipramine (Norpramin)
• imipramine (Tofranil)
can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome and heart-related side effects from Adderall
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)• citalopram (Celexa)
• escitalopram (Lexapro)
• fluoxetine (Prozac)
• fluvoxamine (Luvox)
• paroxetine (Paxil, Brisdelle, Pexeva)
• sertraline (Zoloft)
can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome
serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)• desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)
• duloxetine (Cymbalta)
• venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome
triptans• almotriptan
• eletriptan (Relpax)
• frovatriptan (Frova)
• naratriptan (Amerge)
• rizatriptan (Maxalt, Maxalt-MLT)
• sumatriptan (Imitrex, Tosymra, others)
can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome
lithium (Lithobid)can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome
buspirone†can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome
mirtazapine (Remeron)can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome
certain opioids• fentanyl (Subsys, Fentora, Lazanda, Actiq)
• tramadol (ConZip, Ultram, Qdolo)
can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome
cytochrome p450 2D6 (CYP2D6) inhibitors• fluoxetine (Prozac)
• paroxetine (Paxil, Brisdelle, Pexeva)
• quinidine
• ritonavir (Norvir)
can increase the risk of side effects from Adderall
antacids• calcium carbonate (TUMS)
• sodium bicarbonate (Alka-Seltzer)
• magnesium hydroxide/calcium carbonate (Rolaids)
can increase the risk of side effects from Adderall
h3 blockers• cimetidine (Tagamet HB)
• famotidine (Pepcid AC)
• nizatidine (Axid)
• ranitidine (Zantac)
can increase the risk of side effects from Adderall
urinary alkalinizers• acetazolamidecan increase the risk of side effects from Adderall
proton pump inhibitors• esomeprazole (Nexium)
• lansoprazole (Prevacid)
• omeprazole (Prilosec)
• pantoprazole (Protonix)
• rabeprazole (Aciphex)
can make Adderall less effective than usual
bupropion (Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL)can increase the risk of seizures

* To learn more, see “When to avoid Adderall” above.
† Buspar, a brand-name version of buspirone, used to be available but has been discontinued.

Here’s a closer look at certain drug interactions with Adderall.

Serotonergic drugs

Serotonergic drugs are drugs that increase levels of the chemical serotonin in your body.

Interaction result. Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.

Interaction explained. Adderall and serotonergic drugs can increase levels of serotonin in your body. Taking Adderall with a serotonergic drug can cause your serotonin level to rise too much, leading to serotonin syndrome.

Examples of serotonergic drugs. Here are some serotonergic drugs:

  • selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (Prozac)
  • serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
  • tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline
  • certain other antidepressants, such as mirtazapine (Remeron)
  • triptans for migraine, such as sumatriptan (Imitrex)
  • the anxiety drug buspirone
  • lithium (Lithobid)
  • certain opioids, such as fentanyl (Subsys, Fentora, Lazanda, Actiq)

Steps you or your doctor may take. If you take Adderall with a serotonergic drug, your doctor may prescribe a dosage of Adderall that’s lower than usual. See your doctor right away if you have symptoms of serotonin syndrome while taking Adderall with a serotonergic drug.

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome can include dry mouth, dilated pupils, hallucinations, and sweating more than usual. Other symptoms can include a very high body temperature, stiff muscles, and delirium (sudden confusion about what’s real).

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Adderall has a serious interaction with drugs called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). These include MAOI antidepressants, and certain drugs for Parkinson’s disease or infections.

Interaction result. Risk of dangerous side effects.

Interaction explained. Taking Adderall with an MAOIcan cause a hypertensive crisis (a dangerous increase in blood pressure), heart attack, or stroke. The drug combination can also cause serotonin syndrome. This is a serious condition caused by a buildup of the chemical serotonin in your body. (To learn about symptoms of serotonin syndrome, see “Serotonergic drugs” above.)

Examples of MAOI drugs. Here are some MAOIs:

  • isocarboxazid (Marplan)
  • linezolid (Zyvox)
  • methylene blue (ProvayBlue)
  • phenelzine (Nardil)
  • selegiline (Emsam, Zelapar)
  • tranylcypromine (Parnate)

Steps you or your doctor may take. Adderall typically should not be taken within 14 days of taking an MAOI drug. If you’ve taken an MAOI recently, be sure to let your doctor know. They may still prescribe Adderall. However, they’ll likely have you wait at least 14 days from your last dose of the MAOI before starting Adderall treatment.

Acid-reducing drugs

Acid-reducing drugs reduce the level of acid in your stomach. The medications are used to treat conditions such as indigestion, heartburn, or stomach ulcers.

Interaction result. Increased risk of side effects from Adderall.

Interaction explained. Acid-reducing drugs can increase the absorption of Adderall into your body. This can raise the level of Adderall in your blood, which can make side effects from Adderall more likely.

Examples of acid-reducing drugs. Here are some acid-reducing drugs:

  • antacids, such as calcium carbonate (TUMS)
  • h3 blockers, such as famotidine (Pepcid AC)
  • proton pump inhibitors, such as esomeprazole (Nexium)

Steps you or your doctor may take. If you take Adderall with an acid-reducing drug, your doctor may prescribe a dosage of Adderall that’s lower than usual. Also, keep in mind that you should not take antacids at the same time of day as Adderall.

Adderall may have other interactions, such as with supplements, herbs, or foods. You’ll find details below.

Adderall interactions with supplements

Before you start treatment with Adderall, tell your doctor and pharmacist which supplements, herbs, and vitamins you take. By sharing this information with them, you may help prevent possible interactions.

If you have questions about drug interactions that may affect you, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Adderall interaction with supplements

Certain supplements can raise the level of the chemical serotonin in your body. Taking Adderall with one of these supplements can increase your risk of serotonin syndrome. This is a serious condition caused by a buildup of serotonin in your system.

Examples of these supplements include tryptophan and 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan).

Adderall interactions with herbs

An herb called St. John’s wort can increase the level of serotonin in your body. Taking Adderall with St. John’s wort can increase your risk of serotonin syndrome.

Adderall interactions with vitamins

Taking Adderall with vitamin C can reduce the absorption of Adderall into your body. This could make Adderall less effective than usual. You should take vitamin C and Adderall at least 1 hour apart.

Adderall interactions with food

Adderall has stimulant effects. If you consume caffeine with Adderall, this may increase the stimulant effects of the drug. This could cause or worsen Adderall side effects such as trouble sleeping, anxiety, and increased heart rate.

You should avoid consuming large amounts of caffeine with Adderall. Caffeine is found in several foods and drinks, such as:

  • tea, including green tea
  • coffee
  • chocolate
  • cola drinks

Adderall and cannabis or CBD

Cannabis (marijuana) and cannabis products, such as cannabidiol (CBD), have not been specifically reported to interact with Adderall. However, as with any drug or supplement, talk with your doctor before taking cannabis in combination with Adderall. The impact of cannabis may affect how well you stick to your Adderall treatment plan.

Note: Cannabis is illegal at a federal level but is legal in many states to varying degrees.

Certain medical conditions and other factors may increase the risk of interactions with Adderall. Before you take Adderall, be sure to talk with your doctor about your health history. Adderall may not be the right treatment option if you have certain medical conditions or other factors affecting your health. These include:

  • High blood pressure. Adderall can increase your blood pressure. If you have mildly high blood pressure, Adderall could make it worse. If you have moderately or severely high blood pressure, your doctor will likely not prescribe Adderall. To learn more, see “When to avoid Adderall” above.
  • Heart conditions. Adderall can increase your heart rate and blood pressure. If you have a heart condition, Adderall could make it worse. Your doctor may check your heart function before prescribing Adderall to make sure the drug is safe for you. If you have a serious heart condition, your doctor will likely not prescribe Adderall. To learn more, see “When to avoid Adderall” above.
  • Circulation problems. Adderall can decrease blood flow to your fingers and toes. If you have a circulation problem such as Raynaud’s disease, taking Adderall could worsen your symptoms.
  • Mental health conditions. If you have a mental health condition such as bipolar disorder, anxiety, psychosis, or schizophrenia, taking Adderall could worsen your symptoms.
  • Tourette’s syndrome or tics. If you haveTourette’s syndrome or tics affecting movements or speech, taking Adderall could worsen your symptoms.
  • Seizures. If you have a seizure disorder, taking Adderall could increase your risk of having a seizure.
  • Allergic reaction. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Adderall or any of its ingredients, taking the drug could cause such a reaction. You could also have an allergic reaction with Adderall if you’ve had such a reaction to other drugs called amphetamines. (Adderall is a type of amphetamine.)
  • Hyperthyroidism. Taking Adderall can increase your heart rate and blood pressure. Hyperthyroidism can also cause these symptoms. If you have hyperthyroidism, Adderall could worsen your symptoms.
  • Glaucoma. Adderall can increase the pressure in your eyes. If you have glaucoma, taking Adderall could worsen your condition.
  • Agitation. If you’re in an agitated state, taking Adderall could worsen it. Agitation refers to feeling restless, nervous, or annoyed. Sometimes it can be due to a mental health condition.
  • Past drug misuse or dependence. Adderall has a risk of misuse and dependence. If you’ve misused or been dependent on drugs in the past, you may have an increased risk of these problems with Adderall. In fact, the drug has a boxed warning about this risk. This is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To learn more, see “Boxed warning: Risk of misuse and dependence” at the top of this article.
  • Pregnancy. It’s not known if Adderall is safe to take during pregnancy.
  • Breastfeeding. You should not take Adderall if you’re breastfeeding. The drug can pass into breast milk and cause side effects in a child who is breastfed.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Adderall and possible interactions.

Does Adderall interact with antihistamines?

Adderall is not known to interact with antihistamines (medications that treat allergies). However, some antihistamines can make you feel drowsy. Examples include chlorpheniramine and diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Adderall tends to make you more alert than usual. So if you take it with one of these antihistamines, Adderall may reduce drowsiness from the antihistamine.

It’s generally considered safe to take Adderall with antihistamines. If you have additional questions about taking these medications together, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Can you take gabapentin and Adderall together?

Adderall is not known to interact with gabapentin (Neurontin, Gralise, Horizant). Gabapentinis a seizure medication that’s also prescribed for nerve pain.

However, if you take gabapentin to help prevent seizures, it’s important to note that Adderall can increase your risk of having a seizure. This means that gabapentin may not work as well as usual to help prevent seizures if you take it with Adderall.

Your doctor and pharmacist can help answer other questions you have about Adderall and gabapentin.

Are there interactions between Adderall and Ativan or Klonopin?

There are no known interactions between Adderall and lorazepam (Ativan) or clonazepam (Klonopin). They can be used together safely if you take them as your doctor prescribes.

Ativan and Klonopin are a type of drug called benzodiazepines and are used to relieve anxiety. Adderall is sometimes prescribed with these drugs for people who have both anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Klonopin is sometimes also used to help prevent certain types of seizures. It’s important to note that Adderall can increase your risk of having a seizure. This means Klonopin may not work as well as usual to help prevent seizures if you take it with Adderall.

If you’re interested in taking Adderall with Ativan or Klonopin, talk with your doctor. They can advise you on the right treatment plan for you.

You can take certain steps to help prevent interactions with Adderall. Your doctor and pharmacist are key resources, so reach out to them before starting treatment. For example, you should plan the following:

  • Let them know if you drink alcohol or use cannabis.
  • Tell them about any other medications you take, as well as any supplements, herbs, and vitamins.
  • Create a medication list, which your doctor and pharmacist can help you fill out.
  • Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medications, supplements, herbs, or vitamins while you’re taking Adderall.

It’s also important to read the label of Adderall and other paperwork that comes with the drug. The label may have colored stickers that mention an interaction. And the paperwork, sometimes called the prescribing information, may contain details about interactions. If this information is difficult to understand, ask your doctor or pharmacist to help explain it.

You can also help prevent interactions with Adderall by taking it exactly as your doctor prescribes.

Besides learning about interactions, you may want to find out more about Adderall. These resources might help:

  • Overview of Adderall. For a general overview of Adderall, you can see this article.
  • Side effects. If you’re interested in the side effects of Adderall, see this article. Another option is to refer to the prescribing information for Adderall and Adderall XR.
  • Cost. If you’d like to learn about Adderall and cost, see this article.
  • Drug comparison. For information abouthow Adderall compares with other drugs, such as modafinil, Strattera, and methylphenidate, see this article. You can also find information about how Adderall compares with the following medications:
    • Dexedrine
    • Vyvanse
    • Ritalin
    • Concerta
    • guanfacine
  • Facts about your condition. To learn more about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), see our list of related articles. For more information about narcolepsy, you can visit our science of sleep hub and list of sleep articles.

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

How to increase efficiency when you have attention deficit? — RISE on vc.ru

This is the second part, dedicated to the problem of ADHD and ways to improve performance. In the previous material, we talked about the fact that: 10% of the population has ADHD and only 5% are diagnosed with it, the brain has a Basic Network and a Network of Tasks that work alternately, and violations in their work lead to ADHD.

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In touch RISE : community about nootropics and personal productivity. Today we will talk about the role of dopamine in our ability to concentrate, and about the main ways that increase dopamine. We will also touch on the behavior of people with ADHD in relation to sources of dopamine.

Disclaimer : I am not a psychiatrist and do not recommend the use of medication. Also, do not self-diagnose ADHD, focusing on an article from the Internet. The doctor prescribes drugs and makes a diagnosis. Based on a podcast by Stanford University neuroscientist Andrew Huberman.

Dopamine and attention deficit

Dopamine plays a key role in focusing attention. Previously, we have already touched on the dopamine, acetylcholine, adrenaline ligament, which maintains efficiency in the process of performing tasks. But today we will figure out how dopamine works, and what are the most accessible sources of it.

How to improve efficiency, knowing the structure of the brain?

Parts of the brain mentioned above are Basic Network and Task Network . They are like musicians in a band: they are only good when they work in sync. The essence of these areas of the brain is that when one works, the second does not show activity. This is typical for normal people, without ADHD.

Dopamine is responsible for the harmony in the work of these two networks. Its sufficiently high level provides adequate excitation and relaxation in the networks, normalizing behavior. If there is little dopamine, then both of these networks are excited chaotically, thereby switching the person’s attention from object to object.

This explanation for ADHD has been called the “low dopamine hypothesis in ADHD”. Curiously, when a healthy person’s dopamine levels drop, he behaves in much the same way as a person with ADHD. Attention wanders, it is difficult to gather thoughts together, you frantically grab everything in a row, and everything literally flows out of your hands. The reason is that two areas of the brain are at work at the same time, competing for your personal activity.

How to increase efficiency, knowing about these symptoms? Oddly enough, but we do it ourselves and unconsciously. And here’s how.

Instinct for dopamine in people with ADHD

These observations were carried out in the period 1940-1960 in the USA, and were possible due to the widespread availability of tools that affect the human mind. People who were then still diagnosed with attention deficit disorder behaved as follows: they drank 8 cups of espresso a day, smoked a pack of cigarettes, and used, when available, cocaine and amphetamine, thereby raising their dopamine and norepinephrine. As for children with ADHD, they had an incredible craving for sweets, too strong even for children.

An interesting hypothesis emerges. All these substances: coffee, sugar, cigarettes, cocaine and methamphetamine increase dopamine levels. That is, either a person cannot control himself and uses those substances that cause the formation of bad habits. Or the body itself is consciously looking for sources of dopamine to cover its deficiency.

If we look at the modern drugs that are prescribed for ADHD in the Western market, the list will be: Ritalin, Modafinil, Adderall. All of them are modified forms of amphetamine. It is clear now why Walter White pursued his goals so purposefully 😉

Ways to increase dopamine

Coffee is the most affordable way to increase dopamine, as it simultaneously increases the sensitivity of dopamine receptors and stimulates the release of dopamine. Excess dopamine is metabolized into norepinephrine, allowing you to literally “rive attention” to a specific object. You can read more about the effectiveness of coffee here. In parallel with improvised tools, farming is also developing. industry. Its capabilities are wider, but also many times more dangerous.

Stimulants and their dark side

Ritalin, adderall, modafinil. Ritalin was the first drug to treat ADHD, today it is considered obsolete. Modafinil was available for some time in pharmacy chains in Russia, but then it was removed from sale. For the acquisition, storage, distribution – pay for freedom, the use of modafinil is not worth it. They say there is an analogue of the drug – hydrafinil. But, firstly, the hydrafinil formula itself acts on the body with a bunch of side effects, now it seems like no production has licenses for the production of hydrafinil, and what is sold on the Internet in packs, at best, will be ground phenotropil or chalk.

That leaves Adderall, the best drug for ADHD, because unlike modafinil, it doesn’t last long. Modafinil provides an increase in dopamine and keeps it at its peak for 4-6 hours. Therefore, the natural increase in dopamine from the body will lead to side effects. Adderall, on the other hand, works for 30-60 minutes, and is able to adequately close the “dopamine pit” that is intermittent in people with ADHD.

The problem with these drugs is that when prescribed, in the US, 25% of students and 35% of the population aged 17 to 35 use Adderall without a doctor’s prescription. It is also curious that all these drugs are stimulants. But for people with ADHD, instead of defocusing even more, on the contrary, they relax and calm them down. And that’s why.

How Stimulants Calm the Brain

Back to the Core Network and the Task Network. The task network is responsible for our composure and activity. It contains the key to how to increase efficiency in the process of solving problems. Stimulants that affect the task network literally show the brain how to behave when dopamine levels are high.

Something similar happens to a person who takes antidepressants while undergoing treatment for depression. Antidepressants, if it’s an SSRI, help build up serotonin in the synaptic clefts, thereby showing the brain that this is what you feel when there is a lot of serotonin.

Life hack. Back to stimulants and performance. When I couldn’t focus on something myself, I started to convince myself that it was the most interesting thing in the world. What I read or write about incredibly interesting gizmos, and after 5-10 minutes I sincerely believed in it and immersed myself in work.

Approximately the same thing happens when taking drugs for ADHD. The brain is helped to “get on track”, after which the person remains to maintain the position for as long as possible. But what exactly these pills do for a healthy brain, especially in the long run, is an open question.

How to improve performance using diet

In addition to drugs, there are safer tools to increase concentration. I must say right away that if you google “diet for ADHD”, then the list will be filled with a variety of, and often useless diets: gluten-free, keto, with the rejection of glucose or coffee. Therefore, before something is, or something to refuse, let’s turn to the study.

100 children divided into 2 groups of 50 people: experimental and control. Moreover, after some time the children were changed places. The results were evaluated through the presence of volitional behavior in children. And the influence of the oligo-antigenic diet was investigated.

An oligo-antigenic diet is when a person passes the maximum number of tests to detect allergies to specific types of food. After that, all these types of food are excluded from the diet. Based on the results of the study, the following conclusions were made:

  • Yes, the oligo-antigenic diet reduces the symptoms of ADHD, and sometimes it can completely eliminate the symptoms, curing ADHD.
  • However, if a child avoids foods to which he has a slight allergy from childhood, it may well be that with age the response to the allergen from the body may be many times stronger.
  • Avoiding allergens has a positive effect on well-being in the moment, but how does this affect the long term?

The most important thing on this path is the ability to listen to yourself. Get a notepad or file on your phone where you can record what you ate and how your body reacted to it. And through long and difficult trial and error, you will build a personal diet that will help you achieve efficiency and performance.

Omega 3 and ADHD

Separately, there is talk that the Omega supplement can get rid of ADHD. But, as with many brain drugs, there are a number of nuances:

  • Optimal intake starts from 1000 to 2000 milligrams per day. We are talking about the liquid form of Omega 3, but capsules are also suitable.
  • The daily dose of Omega 3 should contain 1000+ milligrams of EPA – eicosapentoenoic acid. It is found in abundance in fatty fish.
  • Under these conditions, it is possible to achieve the desired effect of ADHD drugs by using a lower dosage of these drugs.

That is, omega 3 alone will not relieve you of ADHD, but when taken with drugs, omega can enhance the effect of active ingredients. At the same time, when it comes to Omega, it is important to return to the categories of substances: modulators and mediators.

Mediators are substances that directly affect specific processes in the body. And modulators are involved in the process indirectly, like sleep, for example. It seems like he does nothing of the kind, but try not to sleep for 2 days.

Omega 3, diet, lifestyle are the same modulators. By themselves, they will not get rid of ADHD, but together with treatment they can achieve a more pronounced effect.

Insights on how to improve performance in attention deficit

The diamond bullet does not exist. If ADHD is diagnosed, then the treatment is prescribed by a psychiatrist, and you should follow his recommendations. However, using modulators such as diet, omega 3, and self-control can increase the effectiveness of certain drugs.

Classic caffeine or sugary foods can help you quickly achieve efficiency. But this is not a panacea, but a momentary injection into the body’s performance.

More materials about the keys to productivity, efficiency and personal effectiveness can be found in our Telegram channel and VK group. Subscribe to keep up to date with the latest content.

Author: Philip Donchev, RISE community editor

Maternal anxiety and ADHD treatment. What Sofiko Shevardnadze talked about with Mikhail Labkovsky

At the very beginning, Sofiko makes a remark – this is her first interview in the past six months. During this time, she became a mother, and the picture of her world has changed – the happiness of motherhood goes hand in hand with feelings of responsibility for the life of a child. Such frankness sets the tone for a conversation with Mikhail Labkovsky, a psychologist and author of the book “I want and I will. Accept yourself, love life and become happy.” We are publishing the abstracts of the interview, which can be viewed in full on the YouTube channel “Just about the difficult with Sofiko Shevardnadze.”

Being a mother and doing what you want is possible . Contrary to the popular belief that the birth of a child changes the priorities in the life of parents and now children’s happiness is at the forefront, Mikhail convinces that in fact there should not be such drastic changes.

Psychologically, the older the parent, the better the child . It is mature mothers and fathers who statistically spend more time with their children than younger ones. But to resolve the dispute around the benefits and threats to health in late childbirth, you should turn to genetics.

Women who are not happy with motherhood should get tested for postpartum depression . Otherwise, there will be no happiness for either the mother or the child.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder took away years of quiet life from Mikhail , only taking special medications proved to be effective. These are drugs based on Adderall, and they are not sold in Russia.

“A healthy person does not have a mild form of anything!” If you suddenly wake up and feel that the joy in life has become an order of magnitude less and your mood has nothing to do with it, you should talk to a specialist.

Life with parents is taboo for an adult . Mikhail is sure that in such conditions it is difficult for an age “child” to build personal boundaries.

The one-no rule always works! Labkovsky recommends: if, while solving a serious problem with your partner, parent, or even just an acquaintance, your “no” is not heard the first time, there is no point in trying to say it twice. There are two options here – either continue to endure an uncomfortable position, or leave. Even when it comes to your own mother. Cruel, but true, according to Michael.

“Choosing a psychologist is a minefield.” Mikhail advises how to get through it so as not to stumble upon a bomb. Here are his requirements for a specialist:

  • Traditional psychological education is a diploma.
  • Work experience – at least five years.
  • During the sessions, the client should feel comfortable with the psychologist. No shock therapy! Only comfortable communication.
  • Positive dynamics at least three to four weeks after the first dose. If you feel that you are not moving forward with your problem, it is worth changing a specialist.

The best psychological technique is the one that works. There are many areas of practical and theoretical psychology in the world. Mikhail suggests leaving the decision on the effectiveness of each approach to the client.

“80% of good media content is now on YouTube. Viewers there are the most active, and interaction with them is productive and interesting. We are in for a big season: actual heroes with empathy and new ideas, success algorithms. Spin-offs will definitely appear, plans “make a travel blog around Russia. But our project will remain a laboratory-conversation with a person. And our idea of ​​just talking about complex things will remain unchanged,” program producer Alexei Bokov comments on the release.

Issues of “Just about the difficult things with Sofiko Shevardnadze” have been published on Yandex.Ether since October 2019. The goal of the project is to discuss and explain to the viewer the complex phenomena that occur in everyday life in the format of a conversation with an expert.