*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
Adderall side effects can impact females* differently than males. Some research shows that females report side effects or negative responses to Adderall more often than males. For some, side effects may also be more bothersome during or before the menstrual cycle.
If you’re considering Adderall, you will be limited in your options for obtaining an assessment and prescription online. Circle Medical is an online psychiatry platform that can and will prescribe stimulant medications, which are controlled substances. Their providers offer assessments and prescription consultation, and can answer any questions you have about medication side effects in females.
*The use of terms females, males, women, or men are used to describe the sex assigned at birth. Talk with your healthcare provider if you are a different gender than your sex assigned at birth to understand what you can expect from using any medicine.
Boxed Warning: Amphetamine, dextroamphetamine mixed salts (Adderall) - Risk of medication misuse or abuse
Adderall has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Amphetamines, an active ingredient in Adderall, have a risk of misuse (abuse) which can lead to dependence on the medication, serious heart conditions, and even sudden death.
Adderall is a controlled substance, which means that it’s more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
Key Takeaways
Adderall can cause side effects that may impact females differently, especially before and during the menstrual cycle.
Initial side effects may last for a week or two as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist longer than this, a prescriber can help you determine next steps, which may include a change in dosage, timing of dosage, or medication.
There are several ways to cope with Adderall side effects, including self care practices, medication adjustments, and therapy.
If you are considering Adderall or an alternative, a good place to start is with an evaluation from a medical provider. Many online psychiatry platforms offer online assessments and medication management, such as Talkiatry, or Circle Medical.
See If You Have ADHD - Same Day Appointments
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Side Effects of Adderall in Women
Everyone reacts differently to medications, but evidence suggests some commonalities in side effects of Adderall for women. One study found females more often report decreased appetite, headaches, nausea, dizziness, and anxiety when taking Adderall.1
Similarly, other studies suggest women generally react more negatively to Adderall than men. These findings may be due to differences in metabolism, weight, or body fat percentage. However, more research is needed to determine if Adderall causes different side effects in females than males.
Common side effects of Adderall in women include:
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Decreased appetite
- Anxiety
- Weight loss
- Sexual dysfunction
*All medications, including Adderall , can cause side effects that can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.
How Soon Will I Start Feeling Adderall Side Effects?
Adderall side effects may occur at any time and vary for each person. Some may feel side effects as early as their first dose, while it may take longer for others to notice them. And some do not experience any Adderall side effects.
How Long Do Adderall Side Effects Last?
Adderall side effects may last only a few days or weeks for some people as they adjust to the medication. These effects often disappear on their own. Others may experience side effects for as long as they take the medication.
What If My Side Effects Persist?
If your side effects continue and they are impacting your overall quality of life, speak with your doctor. They may help you consider a change in dosage, timing of dosage, medication, or possibly adding another medication.
Sexual Side Effects of Adderall in Females
Although little research exists on female libido and Adderall, some studies show stimulants can decrease sex drive in both males and females. The exact reason for these effects is unknown.2, 3
Decreased libido can impact a relationship, so consider speaking with your partner if you experience adverse sexual side effects of Adderall. You should also raise these concerns with your prescribing doctor. Sex counseling can also help during this time.
Should I Stop Taking Adderall If I Start Feeling Side Effects?
Do not stop taking Adderall unless instructed to do so by your prescriber. Stopping Adderall abruptly may cause uncomfortable effects, especially if you’ve been taking it for an extended time. Talk to your prescriber about your side effects so they can help you take the most appropriate action.
See If You Have ADHD - Same Day Appointments
Affordable and accessible ADHD evaluations and treatment, including possible controlled substances medication if clinically appropriate. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. Same day appointments.
Why Does Adderall Affect Females Differently?
Some studies show stimulants like Adderall may affect women differently than men. For example, the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle can impact how women react to Adderall.4
Women using Adderall have reported euphoria and increased energy when menstruating, suggesting higher estrogen levels may enhance the effects of stimulants.4 Additionally, women may experience intense cravings for Adderall during this time. Still, more research is needed to support these findings.
What Side Effects Should I Be Most Worried About When Starting Adderall?
Stimulant medications come with many potential adverse effects, including the risk of misuse and addiction. In rare cases, stimulants can induce heart attacks, arrhythmias, and palpitations, especially for those who misuse Adderall.5 Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience serious reactions when taking Adderall.
Serious side effects of Adderall that require immediate attention include:
- Palpitations or chest pain
- High blood pressure
- Serotonin syndrome
- Seizures
- Tremors
- Sudden death from cardiac arrest
- Symptoms of psychosis
*All medications, including Adderall, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.
When Should I Call My Doctor About Adderall Side Effects?
Side effects are one of the most common reasons people choose to stop taking medication. While some effects can be managed and may fade away, some do not go away unless a person stops taking the medication. Side effects can occur even if you are taking your medication correctly.
Contact your provider as soon as possible if side effects persist or become hard to tolerate so you can consider other treatment options. While not common, some people taking Adderall may experience serious side effects. These effects often require immediate medical care and some may be life-threatening. If you notice any of the serious side effects listed above, seek medical care immediately.
Important Things to Know When Starting Adderall
Before starting Adderall, it’s important to understand what to expect during your first weeks of treatment. Your prescriber will discuss your dosage, how to take your medication, precautions for the medication, potential side effects you may experience, and what to do if side effects become a problem.
How Long Does It Take for Adderall to Start Working?
Immediate-release Adderall usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes to start working. This medication usually works for 6 to 8 hours and is prescribed in 2 to 3 doses per day.6 Alternatively, extended-release Adderall usually takes about 1 to 2 hours to start working and works for 12-16 hours.7
Can Adderall Worsen Symptoms at First
Yes, stimulant medications such as Adderall may worsen pre-existing psychiatric conditions or even contribute to the development of new psychiatric symptoms, including mood swings, anxiety, irritability, or aggression.
What Happens If I Miss a Dose?
If a dose of Adderall XR is missed, do not take it later in the day. Instead, skip that dose and take your next dose at the regular time the following day. Do not take double the following day to make up for a missed dose.
If a dose of Adderall IR is missed, you can take it when you remember, keeping in mind that it will last 4-6 hours. Another dose should not be taken until this time has passed. If it is too late in the day to take the dose, skip it and take the next dose in the morning.
Precautions for Starting Adderall
When starting Adderall, be aware of the several warnings and precautions associated with its use. Some individuals may be at a higher risk for serious side effects from Adderall, and they may need to take caution when starting this medication.
Warnings and precautions for taking Adderall include*:
Drug Interactions
Adderall can interact with many substances, including other stimulants, medications that can raise serotonin levels, some over-the-counter antacid (alkalizing) remedies, and antihistamines. Interactions affect the absorption, elimination, or effectiveness of these substances, sometimes causing harmful adverse effects.
Based on this, they may reduce your Adderall dose or prescribe a different medication to avoid interactions. Before starting Adderall, tell your prescriber all over-the-counter and prescribed substances you use regularly to reduce these risks.
Allergic Reactions
While not common, allergic reactions to Adderall are possible. Symptoms of an allergic or anaphylactic reaction may include trouble breathing, swelling, or hives. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical care.
Misuse & Addiction
Adderall is addictive, but not everyone who uses it will become addicted. Taking the medication more often, in higher doses, or for reasons other than prescribed can increase this risk. Following the instructions of your provider to keep your risk low.8
Adderall Withdrawal
Adderall withdrawal can occur if you are physically dependent on Adderall and stop taking the medication abruptly. Physical dependence occurs when your body gets used to a medication and needs time to adjust to you not taking it anymore. To reduce the risk of withdrawal, take your Adderall doses as prescribed and only reduce your dosage or stop taking it if instructed by your provider.
*This is not a comprehensive list of all warnings and precautions for Adderall. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential warning and precautions of any medication.
How to Cope With Adderall Side Effects in Females
Managing Adderall side effects involves a combination of strategies tailored to your specific symptoms. Taking medication with food or adjusting the timing of doses may reduce common discomforts when adjusting to the medication. Contact your provider if side effects persist or worsen.
Healthy Lifestyle Activities
Eating well, sleeping enough, and getting adequate exercise are all parts of a healthy lifestyle. These activities are important for all aspects of your physical and mental health and can help you endure the impact of side effects.
Follow a Daily Routine
Following your normal routine is important whether or not the medication is working yet. Doing your regular daily activities can keep life more predictable and reduce stress as you adjust to the medication. Also, be sure you are taking your medication as prescribed and at a consistent time each day.
Consider Therapy
Psychotherapy can support you by addressing the impact of side effects and helping you develop strategies to manage them. Sex therapy may also be helpful for addressing sexual side effects of Adderall. For in-person treatment, your primary care provider or insurance company can provide a referral, or you may get one from family or friends.
To find an online therapist, an online therapist directory is a great starting point. Many online psychiatry platforms, such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health, also offer therapy services.
When Should I Consider an Alternative to Adderall Due to Side Effects?
Initial side effects of Adderall typically subside after a few weeks. If after some time you are looking to change your medication due to continued side effects, work with a doctor to find an Adderall alternative that suits your needs.
Other stimulants may be considered as Adderall alternatives. While all stimulants share similarities, there are differences with how they work and associated side effects that can make them good alternatives to Adderall.
Nonstimulant ADHD medications can also be effective, especially for those who cannot take or have not benefited from stimulant medications.These medications work differently than stimulants and typically have a more gradual onset of action.
If typical ADHD treatments aren’t well tolerated or effective, prescribers may consider antidepressants. Several types have been shown to be effective for treating ADHD symptoms, including imipramine, Wellbutrin, and Effexor XR.
How to Get a Prescription for Adderall or Alternative Medications
To get a prescription for Adderall or an alternative in person, start with an evaluation for your symptoms. The process of getting diagnosed and potentially prescribed Adderall online or in person may vary for people of different ages.
Your primary care provider, who may be a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, can help you get the process started. They may make a referral to a psychiatrist or specialist to determine if a prescription Adderall alternatives should be included in your treatment plan.
To get an online prescription for an Adderall alternative, you will also start by getting evaluated by an online psychiatric provider. We have thoroughly reviewed platforms like Circle Medical that can and will prescribe stimulant medications, which are controlled substances.
Questions to Ask Your Provider
It is important to discuss the potential side effects of Adderall in females with your doctor, psychiatrist, or therapist you may experience immediately after starting the treatment. Ask them whether these side effects will go away on their own or if any intervention is needed.
Also, many online psychiatry services are available with convenient access to mental health care for ADHD symptoms. Individuals may even change prescribers and get a mental health evaluation, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan.
Questions a female should ask their care team about the side effects of Adderall include:
- What are the common side effects of Adderall for females?
- Are there any long-term side effects for Adderall that are more likely to affect females?
- Does Adderall affect periods?
- Does Adderall affect fertility in females?
- Is it safe for women with cardiovascular issues to use Adderall?
- Is this medication safe to use while pregnant?
- Should I stop taking Adderall while breastfeeding?
- What should I do if Adderall affects my sex drive?
Prescriber’s Tips
Your prescriber will share important information about your Adderall prescription. They will explain how to take and store your medication, what to avoid when taking it, and what to do about side effects. Follow these tips for safe and effective use of Adderall.
- Take your medication as prescribed, do not change your dose or stop taking it unless your prescriber tells you to. Keeping a consistent dosing schedule reduces the chance of unwanted side effects. When taking stimulant medications, this approach can prevent withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue, depressed mood, and disrupted sleep.6
- Take your medication at the same time each day. Doing so can help you remember to take it, making it as effective as possible. Your healthcare provider can help determine the optimal timing based on your sleep patterns and initial medication response.
- Tell your prescriber right away if you or your child have any worsening mental health symptoms, especially hearing voices, seeing or believing things that are not real, or new manic symptoms.6
- Take your first dose upon waking. Late evening doses can cause insomnia.6
- Ask your doctor whether it is safe to drink alcohol while taking Adderall.
- Tell your prescriber about all medications and supplements you take, including over-the-counter treatments. Many over-the-counter medications and supplements can interact with prescription medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Adderall & What Is It Used For?
Is Adderall Safe During Pregnancy?
The effects of Adderall on pregnancy and fertility are not well understood. Some studies have shown a small increased risk of preeclampsia, preterm delivery, and placental abruption for females taking stimulants.9 There is no research or data on specific dosing that is safe for pregnant parents.
Can You Breastfeed While on Adderall?
Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Adderall. The medication passes through breast milk and its impact on breastfeeding children is unclear. There are no reports of short-term harmful side effects to infants despite the high drug levels. However, the long-term effects of infant stimulant exposure are unknown.
Can Adderall Affect Your Period?
Adderall may affect the menstrual cycle, including the follicular (estrogen) and luteal (estrogen and progesterone) phases. However, more research is needed to understand this potential impact.10
Does Adderall Affect Sex Drive in Women?
Some studies show stimulants can decrease sex drive in females. But the exact reason for these effects is unknown and there is little research on the subject.2, 3
Are Females Who Use Adderall at a Higher Risk for Cardiovascular Health Problems?
The risk of developing cardiovascular problems is not clear for women using Adderall. Also, Adderall use in women with pre existing cardiac conditions needs more research to understand the risks.11
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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Gibbs, E. L., et al. (2016). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder-specific stimulant misuse, mood, anxiety, and stress in college-age women at high risk for or with eating disorders. Journal of American college health : J of ACH, 64(4), 300–308. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2016.1138477
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Jeffers, A. J., & Benotsch, E. G. (2014). Non-medical use of prescription stimulants for weight loss, disordered eating, and body image. Eating behaviors, 15(3), 414–418. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25064292/
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Stotz, G., Woggon, B., & Angst, J. (1999). Psychostimulants in the therapy of treatment-resistant depression Review of the literature and findings from a retrospective study in 65 depressed patients. Dialogues in clinical neuroscience, 1(3), 165–174. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.31887/DCNS.1999.1.3/gstotz
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Justice, A. J., & de Wit, H. (1999). Acute effects of d-amphetamine during the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle in women. Psychopharmacology, 145(1), 67–75. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10445374/
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Martin, D., & Le, J.K. (2021). Amphetamine. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556103/
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Adderall- dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate tablet. (May 29, 2024). DailyMed. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. (2023). Label: ADDERALL XR- dextroamphetamine sulfate, dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine sulfate and amphetamine aspartate capsule, extended-release. Retrieved from https://www.dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018, June).Prescription Stimulants DrugFacts. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/prescription-stimulants
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Smid, M. C., Metz, T. D., & Gordon, A. J. (2019). Stimulant Use in Pregnancy: An Under-recognized Epidemic Among Pregnant Women. Clinical obstetrics and gynecology, 62(1), 168–184. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1097/GRF.0000000000000418
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Justice, A. J., & de Wit, H. (1999). Acute effects of d-amphetamine during the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle in women. Psychopharmacology, 145(1), 67–75. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10445374/
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Zhang, L., Yao, H., Li, L., Du Rietz, E., Andell, P., Garcia-Argibay, M., D’Onofrio, B. M., Cortese, S., Larsson, H., & Chang, Z. (2022). Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases Associated With Medications Used in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA network open, 5(11), e2243597. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.43597
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Condensed “What is Adderall & What Is It Used For?” and moved to FAQs. Retitled and revised “Severe & Long-Term Side Effects of Adderall in Females” to “What Side Effects Should I Be Most Worried About When Starting Adderall?”. Moved sections on pregnancy, breastfeeding, and periods to FAQs. Retitled and revised “Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About the Side Effects of Adderall in Females” to “Questions to Ask Your Provider”, retitled and revised “In My Experience” to “Prescriber’s Tips”. Added sections “Key Takeaways”, “How Soon Will I Start Feelng Adderall Side Effects?”, “How Long Do Adderall Side Effects Last?”, “What If My Side Effects Persist?” When Should I Call My Doctor About Adderall Side Effects?”, “Should I Stop Taking Adderall If I Start Feeling Side Effects?”. Added new sections titled “Important Things to Know When Starting Adderall”, “Precautions for Starting Adderall”, “How to Cope With Adderall Side Effects in Females”, “When Should I Consdier an Alternative to Adderall Due to Side Effects?”, “How to Get a Prescription for Adderall or Alternative Medications” and all included subsections. Removed “Abusing Adderall for Weight Loss”, “For Further Reading”, Added FAQs.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Edited for readability and clarity. Reviewed and added relevant resources.
Author: Osama Tariq, PharmD
Reviewer: Dena Westphalen, MD
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