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Adderall and phentermine are both central nervous system stimulants. Adderall (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) is used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. At the same time, phentermine is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for short-term use in weight management for patients with obesity or who are overweight. These medical conditions can overlap, determining whether Adderall and phentermine can be taken together. In short, they can be used concurrently, but there is a large asterisk on that statement referring to cardiovascular concerns with using two central nervous system (CNS) stimulants.
Can you take phentermine with Adderall?
Although phentermine, known as Adipex-P, can be taken with the brand name Adderall, using this drug duo deserves added attention to cardiovascular monitoring, according to the MedScape interaction checker. Blood pressure and heart rate should be watched because two of the serious side effects of stimulant medications are tachycardia (fast heart rate) and hypertension (elevated blood pressure).
Naturally, the level of concern with this drug combination is heightened for certain individuals. Patients with heart disease or uncontrolled hypertension are typically advised to avoid stimulants in general, including phentermine and Adderall. Tachycardia can provoke heart failure, heart attack, or rhythm disturbances, particularly in patients who are prone to underlying cardiovascular disease.
The low cost and benefits of improved focus with Adderall and reduced appetite from phentermine must be balanced against the risk of side effects. Using two stimulants together could increase the risks for some people and affect the balance of benefits and risks. It’s important to make decisions about whether to use one or two stimulants on an individual basis, with medical advice from a healthcare provider.
One of the factors to consider is what other prescription medications, over-the-counter meds, and supplements are taken. For example, the common antidepressants Zoloft (sertraline), Celexa (citalopram), and Lexapro (escitalopram) can interact with phentermine and Adderall, leading to a higher likelihood of serotonin syndrome, a dangerous state of overstimulation of the CNS.
Adderall and phentermine promote the release of brain neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. Antidepressants can do so too. Taking multiple medicines with this potential leads to additive risk, meaning that coupling phentermine with Adderall in someone already taking an antidepressant could be a bad idea.
What happens if you take phentermine and Adderall together?
Yes, taking both prescription drugs could ensure that ADHD symptoms remain controlled with Adderall while obesity is addressed with phentermine. Adderall’s common side effect of appetite suppression is the desired effect of phentermine. Other side effects of both medications include dry mouth and constipation. However, the more serious side effects of phentermine and Adderall must be considered, including the following:
- Hypertension
- Tachycardia
- Heart attack
- Drug abuse or dependency
- Psychosis
- Insomnia
- Tremor
- Seizure
Drug interactions are another point of concern. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are an antidepressant class that absolutely cannot be taken alongside or within 14 days of either phentermine or Adderall. Other drug interactions may occur with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) antidepressants, antihypertensives, and antipsychotics.
If you review the potential side effects and drug interactions, you can understand why the risk of the medication combination could be too high for some patients. Anyone with heart problems, uncontrolled high blood pressure, seizures, or psychological disease might be advised against stimulants by their healthcare provider.
A history of drug abuse could also dissuade someone from the stimulants. They are listed as controlled substances by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) due to their potential for abuse, specifically a schedule IV listing for phentermine and a more concerning schedule II listing for Adderall.
Other treatment options could be better choices. For ADHD medications, the non-stimulant drug Strattera (atomoxetine) may be favored. For obesity management, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1) agonists like Zepbound (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) may be safer and more effective, especially when combined with lifestyle changes such as increased physical activity. A SingleCare discount card can help lower your prescription costs if price is a concern.
How long after taking phentermine can I take Adderall?
Phentermine and Adderall are often taken in the morning to maximize their effects during daytime hours. If they are both in use, the prescribing medical professional will determine the best timing for administration. In situations where taking phentermine or Adderall, but not both, is advised, one should wait three to four days after stopping one stimulant before starting the other, regardless of whether it is a regular-release product or an extended-release version like Adderall XR. Your healthcare provider and pharmacist could provide more specific advice.
Is it safe to mix phentermine and Adderall?
Managing weight and ADHD are no minor feats, and when done effectively, they can have monumental benefits to functioning and long-term health. Depending on the details of an individual’s medical history, phentermine and Adderall could be prescribed concurrently, but another treatment option may be looked at first. The risk of serious cardiovascular side effects may persuade some patients or their healthcare providers to avoid stimulant use alone or in combination. Have an in-depth conversation with your medical team before taking any CNS stimulant.
Sources
- MedScape interaction checker, MedScape (2024)
- Phentermine drug label, NIH DailyMed (2019)
- Adderall drug label, NIH DailyMed (2024)
