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Adderall is a combination drug for the short-term treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Although it is generally a safe and effective drug, it can cause a range of side effects. Alopecia, or hair loss, is a potential but uncommon side effect of taking Adderall.
Some people misuse Adderall for its stimulant effects and to enhance their study and examination performance. However, taking Adderall at high dosages and for prolonged periods can lead to dependence and serious side effects, including psychosis, cardiovascular events, and even sudden death.
Doctors usually recommend regular follow-ups for people who are taking Adderall for extended periods to ensure that the benefits continue to outweigh the risks. According to a 2013 case report, a 12-year-old child developed trichotillomania, or compulsive hair pulling, while taking Adderall for ADHD.
The trichotillomania resolved when the child stopped taking Adderall. Such compulsive behaviors may be a way of coping with the anxiety, nervousness, and overstimulation that stimulant medications can sometimes cause. Decreased appetite, stomach pain, and weight loss are all common side effects of Adderall. Loss of appetite can lead to nutritional deficiencies, which are often a causative factor in hair loss.
People who experience hair loss while taking Adderall should speak to their doctor. A doctor may recommend lowering the dosage or switching to another treatment. However, other stimulants can also sometimes cause hair loss as a side effect.
It is essential to seek medical advice before discontinuing Adderall or any other stimulant medications. Stopping them suddenly may lead to withdrawal effects, and symptoms are likely to return. Strategies for coping with hair loss while taking Adderall may include:
Managing anxiety. Stress or anxiety reduction strategies may help prevent or reduce compulsive hair pulling. These can include anti-anxiety medications, behavioral therapy, regular exercise, support groups, and relaxation therapies, such as meditation and yoga.
Practicing good hair care. Taking good care of the hair will not stop hair loss, but it can minimize hair breakage and damage. A doctor or knowledgeable hair stylist may be able to advise on an appropriate hair care regimen.
Testing for nutrient deficiencies. Doctors can test for common nutritional deficiencies and advise on dietary and lifestyle changes to treat them.
Taking a multivitamin. A multivitamin supplement can help treat or prevent some nutritional deficiencies. A doctor or dietician can offer advice on suitable dietary supplements.
Seeing a doctor who specializes in hair loss. Doctors who treat hair loss can diagnose the cause and make appropriate recommendations. Even if it began when a person started taking Adderall, the hair loss might have another cause. Hair loss is an uncommon side effect of taking Adderall. More common side effects can include:
- nervousness
- stomach pain
- decreased appetite
- sleeping difficulties
- dizziness
- weight loss
- headaches
- changes in libido, or sex drive
- increases in heart rate or blood pressure
Some more serious but less common side effects of Adderall can include:
- slower growth in children
- seizures
- blurred vision or other eyesight changes
- a life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome, which usually occurs when a person takes Adderall with certain other drugs