I am Bipolar and ADD, my ADD causes me not to be able to work, but I was suggested to that Adderall is not a good drug for a Bipolar person. I know that it would help me concentrate and learn. I was recently put Effexor. Thank you for your support
Should a Bipolar person take Adderall for ADD?
- Asked
- 7 Feb 2016 by ChristalP
- Updated
- 26 Feb 2017
- Topics
- adderall, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhd), hyperactivity, disorder, drug
Responses (4)
A central nervous system (CNS) stimulant shouldn't be used as it is possible that it may induce a hypomanic or hypermanic episode. I guess you "know" as you have been given a few by a friend or other third party. One here or there might be okay but on a daily basis I doubt any kind of 'real' doctor would approve that given the potentially dangerous outcomes for you and others.
Steve.
It really depends on whether your Bipolar disorder is under control and what other medications you maybe taking. It is possible to be bipolar and to treat the ADD. I work with many people who have bipolar disorder and are successfully treating their ADD with medication. I would work with a doctor who specializes in these type medications (a psychiatrist, for example). Your bipolar and ADD symptoms need to be assessed carefully before the right "cocktail" of medications can be prescribed.
I have Bipolar Disorder type 2 and also ADHD. My doctor has me on Trileptal, Adderall XR and Celexa. It's all about finding the right medication for you since everyone will absorb meds in a different way. Overall my meds does wonders for me and I haven't had any episodes of mania or depression.
I took adderall for 6 months for my add before being diagnosed with bipolar 2. I will say this medicine changed my life but had me in a constant state of anxiety, and made me feel very sad and when I got angry I was EXTREMELY ANGRY. My psych has decided to stabilize my mood and then add in the right stimulant, NOT ADDERALL. I thought I was doing pretty good lol

Further Information
- Adderall Information for Consumers
- Adderall Information for Healthcare Professionals (includes dosage details)
- Side Effects of Adderall (detailed)
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