Can Adderall Cause Depression?

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Read Time: 4 Minutes
Written by:Dr. Muhammad Munir, MD

Published On: June 21, 2024

Medically reviewed by: Bisma Anwar, MA, MSc, LMHC

Reviewed On: June 21, 2024

Updated On: June 21, 2024

Overview

Adderall is a commonly prescribed drug that’s FDA-approved to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. As an ADHD medication, Adderall works by stimulating the central nervous system to increase the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine levels in the brain to enhance focus and regulate impulse control. 

It’s generally considered a safe prescription stimulant medication when used as intended, although there are some concerns about Adderall causing depression. We’re exploring the link between Adderall and depression here.

The Relationship Between Adderall and Depression

Depression is a common condition that impacts the lives of an estimated 280 million people around the world, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Despite its prevalence, depression is highly treatable. Sometimes, people use the drug Adderall for depression symptom relief. That said, just like any drug, not everyone will have the same experience with Adderall and depression

The relationship between Adderall and depression isn’t fully understood. Some people using Adderall for depression find relief, while for others using it for ADHD, the drug might actually cause depression symptoms.

Adderall causing depression

Wondering if Adderall can cause depression? According to the FDA, depression is a potential side effect of Adderall. However, it’s worth noting that Adderall depression is very rare, and it typically only happens as the result of Adderall abuse or misuse. 

If you’re prescribed Adderall, it’s important to know that you should never abruptly stop taking it without guidance from your doctor. That’s because when taken in high doses for a long time, Adderall withdrawal symptoms can include symptoms of depression if you suddenly stop taking it. 

Adderall as an off-label treatment for depression

Adderall is listed as a psychostimulant, which means it can improve mood, concentration, and energy — all things that depression can severely impact. Because of this, Adderall might be prescribed to treat your depression. While it’s not technically an antidepressant, Adderall is used as a depression medication in cases where other drugs haven’t been effective in relieving your symptoms.

iconExpert Insight

“For some individuals, fatigue, lack of motivation, and poor concentration are prominent features of depression. Stimulants like Adderall can sometimes be added as an adjunct to the antidepressant treatment. This has to be carefully considered and monitored by the psychiatrist managing the treatment.”
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA Muhammad Munir

In studies, psychostimulants like Adderall were found to be particularly effective in treatment-resistant depression.

Mechanisms That May Link Adderall & Depression

Several mechanisms can help explain more about how and why Adderall depression might exist.

For example:

  • Some experts are concerned that Adderall causes prolonged stimulation of the central nervous system, which could lead to neurotransmitter dysregulation. 
  • An abrupt withdrawal of Adderall after long-term use might trigger symptoms of depression as the brain tries to adjust to not having the neurotransmitter boost Adderall offers. 
  • Adderall can have an impact on sleep and appetite in some people, which might contribute to mood disturbances over time. 

Although more research is needed for us to understand fully, there are other common theories about Adderall causing depression that should be noted and carefully considered.

Rebound effects

Rebound refers to the temporary worsening of symptoms or the emergence of new symptoms as a medication wears off. When the effects of Adderall subside, some people might feel a rebound effect that results from a temporary decrease in neurotransmitter activity. 

Rebound effects can lead to changes in mood, focus, and productivity — these fluctuations might increase what can be referred to as Adderall depression.  

Psychological dependence

Dependence is always a concern when taking any psychiatrist-prescribed medication. Psychological dependence on Adderall, while not likely when used appropriately, can develop in some people, particularly in cases where the drug is misused

In some cases of dependence, it’s possible to experience worsened symptoms of anxiety or depression, especially if someone can’t access or use their medication unexpectedly. Being reliant on any drug like Adderall to ensure cognitive performance can cause feelings of being out of control and increase depressive symptoms. Adderall addiction treatment options should be explored in such situations.

Pre-existing vulnerabilities

Pre-existing vulnerabilities — like a history of depression, anxiety, or another mental health condition — might increase the likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms after taking Adderall. 

People with underlying mood disorders, like bipolar disorder, might be more susceptible to the impact a medication has on neurotransmitter levels. This can lead to heightened depressive symptoms, especially if there are also genetic predispositions or environmental stressors present that might interact with Adderall.

iconExpert Insight

“The risk factors of stimulant abuse are very prominent. Besides the age, cardiovascular status and other risk factors for a particular patient should be thoughtfully taken into account before considering adding stimulants to the treatment regimen.”
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA Muhammad Munir

Talk to a Mental Health Professional

If you’re struggling with depression and are considering medication, or if your ADHD medication isn’t working as well as you had hoped, talk to a mental health professional. Talkspace is convenient and makes the process of getting mental health care easy, so you don’t have to add more stress to your plate.

Get the help you need from online psychiatrists at Talkspace, who are licensed, experienced, and available to help you explore Adderall alternatives so you can get back to living a happy, healthy life with less depression or ADHD affecting you.

Connect with an online therapist or psychiatrist today so you can start building your own ADHD or depression coping skills to complement your treatment.

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Muhammad Munir

Dr. Muhammad Munir, MD, DFAPA, has over 20 years of clinical experience specializing in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, panic disorder, and ADHD. Dr. Munir believes in “back to basics” the therapeutic alliance between the physician and patients. The hallmark of this alliance is the emphatic process whereby the patient is not only enabled, but educated and encouraged, to take an active role in their psychiatric care and wellbeing.

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