What is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription medication that contains two active drugs: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. These substances belong to a class of medicines known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain, increasing energy levels and alertness [1, 2, 3].
What are its uses?
Adderall is primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It helps with ADHD by decreasing impulsivity, promoting increased attention, and improving the ability to focus. For individuals with narcolepsy, Adderall can help them stay awake during the day. The medication comes in two forms: Adderall and Adderall XR. Adderall can be used in adults and children ages three years and older, while Adderall XR can be used in adults and children ages six years and older [1, 4, 5].
What is cortisol?
Cortisol is a steroid hormone the adrenal glands produce in response to stress or danger. It is commonly called the "stress hormone" due to its role in the body's fight, flight or freeze response [6, 7, 8].
When your body perceives a threat, a chemical known as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is released in your brain, triggering your adrenal glands to release cortisol and adrenaline, this response is a natural and protective reaction to a perceived threat or danger [7].
Cortisol plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. It regulates energy metabolism, stress reactions, and immune response. It also helps regulate metabolism, inflammation, and immune system activity [8, 9].
In addition to these functions, cortisol also suppresses your growth, digestive, and reproductive processes. It changes how your immune system responds and can generate new energy and strength [6].
Does Adderall increase cortisol?
Adderall affects various neurotransmitters in the brain, but its impact on cortisol, a hormone released in response to stress, is unclear.
Research has shown that amphetamines can influence cortisol levels. For instance, a study found that dextroamphetamine, a component of Adderall, suppressed elevated plasma cortisol levels in depressed patients by 33% within 90 minutes [10]. Another study found that dextroamphetamine led to a significant increase in plasma cortisol levels in schizophrenic patients [11].
A study involving atomoxetine, a norepinephrine transporter inhibitor, found that atomoxetine treatment attenuated dextroamphetamine-induced increases in plasma cortisol [12]. This suggests that the noradrenergic system, which atomoxetine targets, may play a role in mediating acute amphetamine responses, including cortisol release.
However, it's important to note that these studies involved different patient populations and varying doses of amphetamines. Therefore, the exact effect of Adderall on cortisol levels may depend on individual factors such as the person's health status, the dose of Adderall, and other variables.