Many people diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) know Adderall as an integral part of their treatment plan. The medication helps increase focus while reducing impulsivity and allows individuals to be more productive at work, school, and at home. Adderall is relatively safe when used as prescribed. However, when combined with alcohol or other prescription drugs, individuals are at risk of adverse effects, including addiction.
Doctors recommend abstaining from drinking when taking prescription drugs, but if you are dependent on alcohol, abstaining can be easier said than done. Right Step Hill Country is here to help you regain control over alcohol so you can continue to take your ADHD medication safely. Contact us at 1.844.675.1628 for more information or to enroll in our alcohol rehab in Texas.
Adderall and Alcohol Interactions
Adderall is a prescription stimulant medication mainly used to treat ADHD but is sometimes used to manage the symptoms of narcolepsy. The drug functions by elevating levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. In turn, people diagnosed with this condition feel calmer and more focused.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is alcohol, which is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Like Adderall, alcohol releases serotonin and dopamine, which are responsible for feelings of happiness, calm, and reward. However, it also increases gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which slows the body’s functions, reducing mental sharpness and impairing motor skills.
Unfortunately, the results of mixing a stimulant and a depressant are far more concerning than either substance on its own. When Adderall and alcohol are mixed, the effects of each can be intensified or diminished, leading to unpredictable and potentially dangerous outcomes.
The Dangers of Combining Alcohol and Prescription Drugs
Mixing alcohol and prescription drugs like Adderall can lead to various adverse effects, such as:
- Impaired cognitive function – Combining alcohol with other substances can impair judgment, reaction times, and decision-making, putting you at greater risk of accidents and injuries.
- Intensified side effects – Drinking while taking prescription drugs can amplify the side effects of each, such as nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness.
- Increased risk of overdose – Alcohol and prescription drugs can strain the heart and liver, so combining them can put even more stress on these organs.
If you are alcohol dependent and your doctor prescribes a medication like Adderall for you, be open and honest about your consumption with them so they can help you find the right plan of action.
Is It Ever Safe to Drink Alcohol While Taking a Prescription Drug?
Some people may believe that if they only drink in moderation—up to one drink per day for women and up to two for men—it is okay to consume alcohol when taking a prescribed medication. In general, it is never safe to drink alcohol while taking prescription drugs, whether Adderall or a different type of drug. This is because even in small amounts, alcohol can:
- Decrease the efficacy of your medication
- Intensify the side effects of both alcohol and your medication
- Put you at risk of respiratory depression when combined with other depressants
Healthcare professionals strongly advise against mixing alcohol with any prescription medication due to the potential for harmful interactions. However, you should always consult your doctor regarding your specific situation and the potential effects of alcohol on your medication regimen.
Reach Out to Right Step Hill Country for Alcohol Rehab in Texas
Managing the symptoms of ADHD can be challenging enough without alcohol dependence. If you have trouble abstaining from alcohol while on an Adderall regimen, you need the support of addiction treatment professionals. Call Right Step at 1.844.675.1628 to discuss our treatment options or submit our online contact form.