Key Points

  • Adderall is a stimulant medication known to speed up metabolism.
  • Side effects of Adderall include appetite suppression and weight loss.
  • Some people abuse Adderall in an attempt to avoid excess weight gain.
  • Adderall is not an approved treatment for weight loss or eating disorders.
  • Adderall is U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Excessive weight gain and the pressure to be “skinny” have prompted people to look for shortcuts to losing weight. Some may engage in unhealthy behaviors, such as skipping meals or cutting out whole food groups. Others may turn to risky behavior, such as using recreational drugs or abusing stimulant ADHD medications like Adderall. Adderall, a popular stimulant for individuals with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is often touted for its ability to help people maintain focus and attention.[1][2] However, it is also a rising star amongst individuals seeking to lose significant weight without using the traditional diet and exercise approach.[3] While weight loss is a common side effect of taking Adderall, it is not a desired outcome for most users. In this guide, you’ll learn why Adderall causes weight loss and what to do if you’re losing too much weight while taking it.

Is Adderall a Stimulant Drug?

Adderall is a prescription medication made from a combination of two stimulants: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine.[4] This combination is useful in reducing ADHD symptoms and boosting focus and attention in individuals with ADD and ADHD. It is also prescribed to individuals with narcolepsy since its stimulant effects keep them alert. Adderall is one of the most commonly prescribed stimulants in the United States.[5] It is also one of the most abused, especially among individuals aged 18 to 25.[6]

Adderall Side Effects 

Amphetamine salts and amphetamine salt combos such as Adderall can cause multiple side effects. They include, but are not limited to:[1]
  • Nervousness
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Dry mouth
  • Increased menstrual cramps
  • Changes in sex drive
  • Weight loss
Adderall use is also associated with a number of serious but rare side effects. If you are taking Adderall and experience any of these side effects, seek medical attention immediately:[1]
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Slowed speech
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
  • Seizures
  • Teeth grinding
  • Motor tics
  • New or worsening depression
  • Hallucinating
  • Agitation
  • Mania
  • Blurred or worsening vision
  • Severe muscle stiffness
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Fever
  • Confusion
  • Sweating
  • Pain, numbness, or tingling in the hands, feet, arms, or legs
  • Unexplained bruising
  • Hoarse voice
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Blistered or peeling skin
  • Paranoia

Is Weight Loss a Side Effect of Adderall?

Yes, weight loss is a side effect of taking Adderall. This medication, and others in the stimulant category, increase metabolism rates, causing users to burn fat quicker than usual.[7] Additionally, side effects such as nausea or vomiting, dizziness, and depression make users less likely to eat.[8] Some may feel more active when taking Adderall, resulting in them burning more calories.

Is Adderall Prescribed for Obesity?

No, Adderall is not currently prescribed as a weight-loss drug.[8] It is only FDA-approved for the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy. However, some physicians may prescribe it for off-label uses. In a survey published on Science Direct, 12% of people abusing Adderall said weight loss was a motivating factor when using the drug.[9] So, Adderall may not be prescribed for weight loss, but there is an increasing number of individuals accessing the drug through illegal means to help them lose weight.

Can Adderall Addiction Cause Weight Loss?

Yes, and in fact, it is one of the signs of Adderall addiction.[9] New or worsening weight loss and unexpected weight loss are all physical manifestations of Adderall use and abuse. Individuals who abuse Adderall are more likely to display serious weight loss, causing their loved ones to become concerned about their health.

When is Weight Loss from Adderall Abnormal?

If you are losing an undesirable amount of weight while on Adderall, speak to your physician. Do not stop taking Adderall without medical supervision. Stimulant medications like Adderall can cause withdrawal symptoms in individuals who have used them for some time.[10] To avoid withdrawal symptoms, which can worsen weight loss, follow the taper schedule provided by your prescriber. A taper schedule ensures safe withdrawal with limited negative effects.

Help for Adderall Misuse 

What started as a harmless method to lose weight can quickly turn into a long-term addiction. If you’re using Adderall for purposes other than prescribed and have attempted several times to quit, only to find yourself retaking it, you may be struggling with an addiction. Addiction occurs when a person has a physical dependence on a substance and experiences uncomfortable withdrawal when trying to stop. They may also try numerous times to quit, just to relapse despite facing negative consequences. If you or someone you know has an addiction to Adderall, contact Southeast Addiction Center TN to learn about our evidence-based addiction treatments. We understand what it takes to overcome Adderall addiction safely and effectively and are here to help.