Adderall is a combination of the prescription drugs dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. Adderall is commonly prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. The side effects of Adderall are typically mild; however, certain individuals, particularly children, may experience dangerous complications of Adderall use. A doctor should explain the potential dangers of Adderall use to patients as well as the parents of young Adderall users before beginning treatment.
Heart Attack and Stroke
Adderall, like other amphetamine-type drugs, can cause increases in heart rate and blood pressure. Drug safety information provided by Drugs.com explains that about 6 percent of people who use Adderall will experience increases in heart rate or blood pressure while taking Adderall. In rare cases, Adderall use can cause heart attack or stroke and may lead to sudden death. Individuals taking Adderall should report any symptoms of heart attack or stroke to a physician as soon as possible. Symptoms of heart attack include rapid heart rate, heart arrhythmias, weakness, shortness of breath and chest pains. Similar symptoms as well as lack of motion or sensation on one half of the body can occur with stroke onset.
Seizures
The Physicians Desk Reference at PDRHealth.com warns that Adderall use can lead to the onset of seizures. Patients prone to seizures or seizure-like symptoms should consult a physician about potential complications before beginning Adderall or other stimulatory therapies.
Decreased Growth in Children
The National Institute of Mental Health warns that prolonged Adderall use may decrease the growth of children. While the reasons behind this are not clear, it is likely that children who take Adderall have decreased appetites and do not eat enough food to maintain proper nutritional inputs. Parents of children taking Adderall should make sure that these children eat regular healthy meals and maintain a healthy height and weight for their respective age groups.
Psychosis and Violent Behavior
Adderall can trigger mild psychotic episodes in chronic Adderall users as well as in patients predisposed to certain psychological conditions. The Alliance for Human Research Protection explains that certain children may also develop symptoms of psychosis while using Adderall. Psychosis-related side effects reported by Adderall users include hallucinations, delusions, delirium and mania. Adderall may also cause aggressive behavior and hostility in some ADHD patients.
Urinary Tract Infection
Drugs.com and MayoClinic.com warn that about 5 percent of Adderall users will develop urinary tract or kidney infections while taking Adderall. A urinary tract infection is a serious medical condition and should be treated with urgency. Symptoms of urinary tract infection include pain in the abdomen or side, blood in the urine, cloudy urine, frequent urination, and fever and chills.
