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Adderall for Pain & Depression Relief

Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts) is a stimulant medication used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It may also be prescribed off-label for other conditions, such as depression and fibromyalgia. Because it can be habit forming, Adderall is not frequently prescribed for treating either pain or depression, unless other treatment methods have failed.

  1. Effectiveness

    • While not primarily considered a depression medication, Adderall is sometimes prescribed for treatment-resistant depression. Adderall can bring about a rapid improvement in depression symptoms for some people. Adderall’s ability to increase energy and concentration make it a candidate for use with the more difficult-to-treat forms of the disorder, such as atypical depression, which can cause a lack of energy and oversleeping.

      As with depression, Adderall is not generally prescribed for pain management, though it may help relieve pain in some people. Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) experienced a reduction in pain and fatigue while taking Adderall. While the exact mechanism isn’t known, Adderall’s pain-relieving properties are thought to be caused by its effects on the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine.

    Indications for Use

    • Possible candidates for treatment with Adderall include people with severe, treatment-resistant pain or depression and those with fatigue as an accompanying symptom. Because of its potential for abuse and addiction, Adderall is not prescribed as a first-line treatment for pain or depression by most doctors. People with a history of drug abuse, heart-related conditions or epilepsy should not take Adderall, except under the close supervision of a medical professional.

    Directions and Dosage

    • According to the RX List Website, the starting dose of Adderall for adults is 20 mg. per day, though dosages may vary depending on the patient’s age, symptoms and other factors. Because it can interfere with sleep, Adderall should be taken upon waking to decrease the incidence of insomnia.

      Patients taking Adderall for pain or depression should start with the lowest available dose and titrate up until an ideal dose is determined. Because depression is a possible side effect of Adderall, it's important to report any changes in mood or behavior to your prescribing doctor immediately. To avoid withdrawal, never stop taking Adderall abruptly without a doctor’s supervision.

    Managing Side Effects

    • Like all medications, Adderall is capable of causing side effects. Commonly reported side effects include weight loss, trouble sleeping, nausea and dry mouth. These symptoms may improve as the body adjusts to the medication and may be prevented or decreased by taking Adderall with food or milk.

      As its Schedule II status implies, Adderall has a moderately high abuse potential and can be habit forming. While rare, serious adverse reactions to Adderall have occurred and include allergic reaction, psychosis, seizure, stroke and heart attack. To decrease the risks of serious side effects, tell your doctor about any health conditions you have before taking Adderall.

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