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Adderall headaches and what you can do about them

One of the common side effects of Adderall is headache
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By | May 24, 2024 Medically reviewed by Peter Lourgos, MD, JD
An rx pill bottle and Rx prescription pad: Adderall headaches and what you can do about them

Key takeaways

  • Adderall can cause headaches.

  • Eat food when taking Adderall to reduce side effects.

  • Drink plenty of water to avoid a headache from dehydration associated with medication.

  • A calcium channel blocker can be taken to reduce an Adderall headache.

In this article:

Adderall is a prescription drug commonly used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Reduced levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the brain are linked with ADHD. This medication works as a central nervous system stimulant to stabilize the chemical imbalance. One of the common side effects of Adderall is headache. According to Dr. Susan Womeldorf, MD of Family Healthcare of Hagerstown, Maryland, “Medication side effects are highly individualized. If you are having recurrent headaches after starting any new medication, call your doctor. For extreme, worst headache of your life, seek medical attention immediately.”

Can Adderall cause headaches?

Adderall and other ADHD medications can cause headaches or migraines. Adderall is a stimulant medication and can suppress the appetite. This prescription drug causes an increase in dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and epinephrine in the brain. The increase of these chemicals signals a cardiac response that increases blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to a throbbing headache. Tell your healthcare professional if you or your family has a history of health issues such as headaches, heart problems, high blood pressure, or heart attack.

RELATED: Does Adderall cause anxiety?

While the ADHD treatment itself may contribute to the onset of a headache, there are other factors to consider. Taking Adderall or medication with dextroamphetamine and amphetamine on an empty stomach could increase the risk of headaches or other side effects. Because Adderall contains amphetamines, it is a controlled substance and classified as a Schedule II Drug. Tell your healthcare provider if you or your loved one have a history of psychosis, mania, suicidal thoughts, or substance abuse. Behavioral therapy could be an effective tool for reducing ADHD symptoms with or without the use of medication. 

In addition, stimulant medications can cause dry mouth and dehydration, which is also linked to headaches. Adderall can also interact with other medications or foods. For example, antidepressant medication such as Prozac may be prescribed in conjunction with Adderall. Similar to Adderall, one of the side effects of Prozac is headaches. 

Coffee, other caffeinated drinks, and sugar may also be contributing to the onset of headaches. Be sure to tell your doctor about your diet and any other medications or supplements you are taking. In addition, communicate to your healthcare professional about other possible side effects or health conditions you may be experiencing such as loss of appetite, tics, trouble sleeping, weight loss, or mood swings. 

How long do Adderall headaches last?

Headaches may be common for first-time users of Adderall. If Adderall is a new medication, allow an adjustment period of a couple of weeks for the body to acclimate to the medicine. 

Headaches may be mild to severe and taper off. Some individuals only notice headaches as the medicine is wearing off or if stopped. Some individuals experience Adderall withdrawal or an Adderall crash. Consult your healthcare provider before stopping medication.

Adderall XR is available in extended-release capsule form. The medication comes in various strengths of 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, and 30 mg to allow for customized dosage. Like most medications, use the lowest dose possible to treat symptoms. Only take the amount prescribed, no more, no less. If headaches persist, consult a healthcare provider about alternative medications or treatment options. 

How to get rid of Adderall headaches?

Robin Akers, a board-certified family medicine nurse practitioner at Lewis Gale Primary Care in Floyd, Virginia, states, “Headaches are a possible side effect of Adderall. Not everyone will experience headaches while taking Adderall, but some may. The headaches may be mild and manageable.” While headaches may go away on their own, acetaminophen (brand-name Tylenol) or ibuprofen (brand-name Advil or Motrin) are over-the-counter (OTC) medications often used to treat headaches associated with ADHD medication. While basic Tylenol and Advil are considered safe to use when taking Adderall, avoid products such as Tylenol Cold and Flu, which have additional ingredients that could cause a reaction. To avoid serious side effects, ask a healthcare professional before mixing medication.

While headaches may occur while taking Adderall, there are ways to help eliminate this unwanted side effect. For example, cold or hot compresses on the forehead could reduce temporal pain. Heat increases blood flow, and cold restricts blood flow to the brain. Drinking water to prevent or treat dehydration can also help eliminate headaches. 

Some individuals also find fresh air, deep breathing, and relaxation helpful. Exercise can reduce headaches and high blood pressure associated with ADHD treatment. Stretching and mild exercise, such as a walk, can increase blood flow and oxygen to the brain and are good for overall mental health. 

Peppermint oil is another natural way to reduce headaches and migraines. Mixed with a carrier oil, peppermint can be applied to the temples, neck, or shoulders to relieve headaches. Using a variety of methods to reduce ADHD treatment symptoms could yield maximum results. Try a variety of solutions to see what works best.

How to prevent an Adderall headache

Headaches can occur for a combination of reasons. Eating healthy, staying hydrated, and exercising can all help reduce Adderall headaches. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist about possible options for reducing headaches. 

Drink plenty of water to help prevent Adderall headaches. ADHD medication can cause dehydration, and headaches are often a side effect of being dehydrated. Drink water regularly throughout the day.

A dose of Adderall on an empty stomach can also trigger headaches. Eat something with or before taking your medicine to avoid potential headaches. Avoid surgery foods and caffeinated beverages that could also be triggering headaches. 

A calcium channel blocker, such as Verapamil, is a potential solution for eliminating Adderall headaches. Although often prescribed to lower blood pressure, this medicine opens and relaxes blood vessels and can reduce headaches. Taking a calcium channel blocker one hour before ADHD medication could help. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether calcium channel blockers are the right choice for you. 

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