OverviewDosageSide EffectsInteractionsHalf-Life

Before consuming alcohol during treatment with Adderall, it is critical that you talk with your prescribing physician about potential risks and side effects you might experience. It is generally not recommended to consume alcohol while taking Adderall.

The FDA states that Adderall has the potential to be abused and/or lead to dependence and is therefore a federally controlled substance (CII). For this reason, it is important to let your doctor know if you or anyone in your family has ever abused and/or depended on alcohol, prescription drugs, or street drugs. For some people, consuming alcohol during treatment with Adderall can lead to serious adverse health problems, especially if overuse occurs. Some doctors may not recommend consuming alcohol during treatment with Adderall.

Please note that this article does not cover every potential risk or side effect of using alcohol during treatment with Adderall. Talk with your physician for more information.

Drug Abuse

Both Adderall and alcohol are drugs that people can abuse. Because Adderall is an amphetamine, it has a particularly high risk for abuse and/or dependence. If abused, it can result in serious health problems, including cardiovascular issues or even death. Adderall use should be monitored and taken seriously for these very reasons. Mixed with alcohol, Adderall use can become riskier and more dangerous, especially if the patient has a history or family history of drug and/or alcohol abuse.

Always follow up with your prescribing physician about any drug and/or alcohol use because it will impact your treatment with Adderall.

Overdose

The FDA outlines various symptoms of Adderall overdose. Keep in mind that alcohol has the potential to exacerbate these symptoms and harm the body. Such symptoms include but are not limited to:

  • Restlessness
  • Tremors
  • Confusion
  • Hallucinations
  • Panic
  • Fatigue
  • Depression
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Coma

Further, the FDA explains that Adderall overdose can lead to serious cardiovascular effects, including but not limited to:

  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Hypotension (low blood pressure)
  • Circulatory collapse (can lead to organ failure and/or other serious side effects)

For more in-depth information regarding potential side effects and risks of overdose, consult with your physician. They will also be able to further explain the risks of consuming alcohol during your treatment with Adderall.

Resources

If you struggle with drug and/or alcohol abuse, there are resources available to help you. Contact your physician immediately if you think you or someone you know needs help with substance abuse. They will be able to discuss your symptoms, as well as provide a collaborative plan for your healing.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

National Hotline: 1-800-662-HELP

Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.


More about Adderall

Written by

Fact Checked by