Bipolar Disorder is a mental health issue that manifests as drastic mood swings. Different medicines can treat it in addition to therapy.
In some instances, stimulant drugs known as Adderall can be prescribed to treat the depressive manifestations associated with bipolar disorders. But, it’s not the most common treatment approach and could cause various adverse negative effects.
About Adderall
Adderall can be described as an approved prescription drug that is composed of a mix of dextroamphetamine as well as amphetamine. It’s usually prescribed to treat the condition known as attention deficiency hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and sometimes it’s also used to treat narcolepsy.
Adderall can be described as a stimulant that boosts energy levels and alertness. It accomplishes this by increasing neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine levels within your brain.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder can be described as a mental illness that causes extreme mood fluctuations, usually accompanied by highs ( manic episodes) and lows ( depressive episodes).
In the past, it was known as manic depression or manic depression.
In a manic episode, one may experience more energy and racing thoughts and require less sleep. In contrast, people with depression may experience diminished energy levels, experience feelings of despair or sadness, and may be less interested in the activities.
There are various kinds of bipolar disorders. Apparent shifts in energy levels and mood mark each type. Some types don’t always involve depressive episodes.
Bipolar disorder is a manageable chronic condition with a combination of treatments and treatment.
The reason why people might make use of Adderall (or any other stimulants) to treat bipolar disorder
Adderall isn’t yet approved by The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat bipolar disorder. However, certain people could receive stimulants such as Adderall off-label during depressive symptoms to boost mood and the amount of energy.
In 2017, Trusted Source examined the use of various stimulants to treat bipolar depression.
One of them was dextroamphetamine. This can be found as an ingredient active in Adderall. Significant improvement in depression symptoms was observed after dextroamphetamine had been utilized.
However, the study found that the efficacy of psychostimulants requires further research for people suffering from mood disorders.
In the study by Trusted Source in 2004, eight participants were prescribed stimulants and their usual medication for bipolar disorders. The stimuli were well tolerated, and a moderate improvement in symptoms such as depression, sedation and anxiety was noted.
In the end, more research is required to establish the safety and efficacy of stimulants like Adderall for treating bipolar disorder. Their use, however, remains unpopularTrusted Source because of the possible side effects that could result from their use.
Negatives and side effects of the use of Adderall to treat bipolar disorder.
There are some disadvantages to using Adderall to manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder. They include:
- The risk of manic episodes. Utilizing stimulants such as Adderall during depressive episodes could increase the likelihood of experiencing a manic episode. A study from 2008 found that 40% of Trusted Source patients taking stimulants to treat bipolar disorder suffered from mania caused by stimuli.
- Tolerance. Using Adderall for a prolonged period can cause tolerability. In these situations, one may require greater levels of Adderall to experience its effects. This could increase the chance of having severe side effects and the risk of overdose.
- Addiction. Adderall is a drug with a high chance of abuse and dependence.
Other adverse side effects that can be expected during the use of Adderall are:
- headache
- dizziness
- stomach upset
- difficulty sleeping
- diminished appetite
- nervousness
There are a variety of drugs that could negatively interfere with Adderall. Examples include:
- Certain antidepressants are known as monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs)
- blood pressure medications
- seizure medications
What is ADHD, as well as bipolar disorders
In a manic episode, it’s normal to experience symptoms like the symptoms associated with ADHD. Some examples include:
- Trouble paying attention
- feeling of a sense of unease
- making impulsive decisions
These symptoms typically disappear after a manic episode has ended. It’s also normal to have bipolar disorder and ADHD to be present together.
For those who have bipolar disorder as well as ADHD, Stabilization of mood through medications such as antipsychotics and mood stabilizers is typically more important than treating ADHD symptoms. Sometimes, stimulants can be utilized in conjunction with these drugs.
While Adderall may help with symptoms common to bipolar disorder and ADHD, the symptoms of mania can persist even after its effects from Adderall are gone. However, certain kinds of antipsychotics utilized to treat bipolar disorder could protect Trusted Source against this effect.
Recommendations for treatment of bipolar disorder
Treatments that are typically used to treat bipolar disorder are:
- Stabilizers of mood. These medications assist in managing the mood changes that are associated with bipolar disorders. Some examples include lithium and valproic acid.
- The version of antipsychotics. Some antipsychotic medicines can be used as a single drug or with adolescents. Examples include risperidone, olanzapine and lurasidone.
- The antidepressants. Antidepressants can be prescribed occasionally to treat depression-related episodes. However, they could also increase the chance of having a manic episode.
- Therapy. Therapy can assist you in coming to comprehend your situation and make you aware of the signs that you’re suffering from a manic or depression-related episode. It can also help you identify problematic thoughts or actions and help you change them.
- Electroconvulsive treatment (ECT). The ECT utilizes electricity to activate your brain. It is often used during a manic or severe depressive episode or when treatment such as therapy and medications have not been successful.
- Lifestyle shifts. Making changes in your lifestyle may assist in the management of symptoms. Examples include taking regular exercise, maintaining a normal routine, and monitoring the changes regarding your attitude.
The most important lessons
Adderall is a stimulant medicine for treating ailments such as ADHD and narcolepsy. Some use Adderall off-label to treat depression episodes of bipolar disorder.
Although some studies have suggested that stimulants could help relieve depression symptoms, they may have potential adverse side effects. This includes an increased chance for manic attacks, tolerance or addiction.
The treatment for bipolar disorder typically involves using both therapies and medications. In general, this will help in managing symptoms.
