Adderall is the brand name for a stimulant medication made with the chemicals dextroamphetamine and amphetamine.
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How Does Adderall Cause Irritability and Anger?
Adderall is a stimulant medication.
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In other words, it helps people feel alert and energetic.
For most people, Adderall helps with ADHD-related emotional responses.
Tolerance is when a higher dose of a drug is needed to achieve the same effect.
People with ADHD are also more likely to have anger directed at them.
This irritability is sparked by fluctuations in the brain chemicals dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin.
Adderall withdrawal can also cause irritability.
A Word From Verywell
Many people who take Adderall to manage ADHD symptoms find it helpful.
However, for some, Adderall can increase irritability or anger.
Speaking to a healthcare provider to possibly modify a dose could help with Adderall’s side effects.
Adderall isn’t likely to cause irritability if taken as prescribed.
This can mean taking too high a dose or the wrong formula of Adderall, or abusing the drug.
It could also mean that Adderall is not the right medication for the person taking it.
Adderall withdrawal can also cause aggression and irritability.
If Adderall causes symptoms of aggression, speak to a healthcare provider about withdrawing from or switching medications safely.
If Adderall is taken with a prescription, it is not likely to change a person’s personality.
This might include speaking and acting more carefully and being able to complete tasks.
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