Depression is a medical condition with symptoms that include feeling sad, lacking interest in activities, changing sleep and eating patterns, and thinking about suicide or death, according to the American Psychological Association. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is marked by concentration difficulties, impulsiveness and restlessness. People may use St. John's wort to help depression and D-amphetamine, or dextroamphetamine, to treat ADHD. Side effects may occur with the use of St. John's wort and d-amphetamine. Do not attempt to self-treat depression or ADHD with any herb or medication before consulting your health-care provider. Taking these substances together is not recommended.
Cardiovascular
D-amphetamine may cause cardiovascular side effects, including heart palpitations, an irregular and rapid heart beat, and elevated blood pressure, according to Consumer Reports Health. Cardiomyopathy, which is a disease that weakens and enlarges the heart, may occur with chronic d-amphetamine use. D-amphetamine use may lead to a heart attack, stroke or sudden death, especially if the person has heart disease or a heart defect.
Dermatological
St. John's wort may affect the skin, according to Consumer Reports Health. A person's skin may become more sensitive to sunlight when taking St. John's wort, so wearing sunblock when spending time outside is recommended, especially for people with fair skin.
D-amphetamine may also cause skin problems, according to Consumer Reports Health. Uticaria, or red, itchy hives, are the most common dermatological side effect.
Endocrine
St. John's wort may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills, according to
Consumer Reports Health. Some birth-control pills have estrogen, which is a hormone essential for menstruation and reproduction. The body naturally breaks down the estrogen in birth control pills, but St. John's wort may increase the breaking down of estrogen. Using other forms of contraception, such as a condom, is recommended for women taking St. John's wort.
D-amphetamine use may affect the endocrine system, which is a system of glands that secret hormones. The primary endocrine side effect is decreased sex drive. D-amphetamine may also slow children's growth in height and weight.
Gastrointestinal
St. John's wort may cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as dry mouth and diarrhea, according to Consumer Reports Health. Nausea may also occur, especially when St. John's wort is taken with some antidepressants.
D-amphetamine may also cause gastrointestinal side effects, according to Consumer Reports Health. Some of these include dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, a foul taste in the mouth, and a loss of appetite.
Nervous System
Nervous-system side effects of St. John's wort include insomnia, mania and dizziness, according to Consumer Reports Health. Taking St. John's wort and antidepressants is not advised as the combination may lead to cardiovascular problems and anxiety. St. John's wort increases serotonin, which is a chemical in the brain, and some antidepressants also increase serotonin levels. St. John's wort may increase symptoms of ADHD, particularly when taking methylphenidate, which is a medication for ADHD. Abstaining from St. John's wort is advised for those taking methylphenidate.
Some nervous system side effects of d-amphetamine are restlessness, dizziness, insomnia, tremor, headache and motor and verbal tics, according to Consumer Reports Health. D-amphetamine may worsen the symptoms of tic disorders, such as Tourette's syndrome.
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