Mixing Adderall and pre-workout supplements can be a risky combination, as both can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, potentially leading to dangerous side effects.
Over a decade of fitness experience, I've worked with patients who are prescribed Adderall, and I've extensively researched and consulted with colleagues on how to help them engage in workouts safely without compromising their health.
I have recommended caffeine-free pre-workouts for those on prescription medication. Our team have personally tested these products to uncover the top options.
Read on as this article will explore the necessary precautions when choosing a pre-workout supplement and how to use them safely while on an Adderall prescription.
Quick Summary
- Combining Adderall and pre-workout supplements can lead to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which can pose potential health risks.
- Many pre-workout supplements contain stimulants, such as caffeine or guarana, which can adversely interact with Adderall's effects on brain chemistry.
- According to WebMD, Adderall can increase blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate, and taking it before working out may compromise heart health.
- Personally, I believe consulting a healthcare professional is crucial before combining Adderall with any pre-workout supplement to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Is It OK To Take Pre-Workout With Adderall?
From my experience, taking a pre-workout with Adderall can be OK, but avoid ones with stimulants like caffeine or guarana as they might clash with Adderall.
Still, even with a stimulant-free pre-workout, check with your doctor. They can ramp up energy and heart rate, which might not mix well with Adderall.
Remember, Adderall calms and focuses your brain, especially for those with ADHD. Caffeine can disrupt this, causing jitters. So, be careful and well-informed about mixing pre-workout with Adderall.
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Can You Use Adderall Instead Of A Pre-Workout?
Generally, you can’t use Adderall instead of a good pre-workout supplement. Unless it has been prescribed by a doctor, it’s not a good idea to try and get some sort of focus and motivation benefits from Adderall.
The problem is that some of the side effects of Adderall are increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure, as WebMD says [1]. When you then further increase your heart rate through exercise, this could put you in a dangerous situation.
“In the short term, Adderall can raise your blood pressure and heart rate and cause you to breathe harder. If you take too much of it, you could put your heart and your health at risk.”
- Smitha Bhandari, MD, WebMD.com
Do You Have To Be Careful With Certain Ingredients?
You have to be careful when combining Adderall with certain ingredients like caffeine, guarana, or anything that can raise your heart rate and blood pressure.
Caffeine, like Adderall, increases heart rate, and even a single cup of coffee can do that for most individuals. Some pre-workouts contain caffeine equivalent to three cups of coffee, intensifying the issue.
Additionally, according to WebMD, guarana can produce a similar effect and may even lead to irregular heartbeats in some people [2].
What About Timing?
Consider the timing of your prescribed Adderall and exercise. Best to hit the gym in the morning and take Adderall post-workout. This avoids the potential double whammy on your blood pressure and heart rate from exercising with Adderall in your system.
If you're eyeing a pre-workout supplement, choose a stimulant-free one and talk to your doctor about when to take it.
Does the Combination Benefit Athletic Performance?
In my patient's athletic endeavors, mixing Adderall with stimulant-free pre-workouts has sometimes enhanced their energy and focus. However, the real effect on sports performance depends on personal reactions, the sport, and dosage.
Always talk to a healthcare expert before trying this combo in sports, as it comes with risks and needs careful consideration.
FAQs
Can You Take Creatine While on Adderall?
Yes, you can take creatine while on Adderall. Studies have concluded that there is no known interaction between the two, but if you have concerns, then talk to your doctor first [3].
What Supplements Cannot Be Taken with Adderall?
You shouldn’t take certain vitamin supplements with Adderall. Doctors advise that you avoid taking Adderall at the same time as vitamin C-rich food or protein supplements as it can impact the absorption rate.
References:
- https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adderall-side-effects
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-935/guarana
- https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/adderall-with-creatine-190-1645-2550-0.html
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