Hi all,

I'm 23, and I've recently been diagnosed with ADHD and a few other things--but that's topic for other threads. Initially, my psychiatrist prescribed the 10mg dosage of Adderall to treat ADHD, but the effects wore off too quickly, so he upped my dosage to the 20mg. I've been taking the 20mg dosage for about a month now, and it has improved my concentration by leaps and bounds. Adderall... wow. Who knew? But a few days ago (3/5/2005), I got my first panic attack. I had all the classic symptoms: difficulty breathing, cold sweats, uncontrollable crying, numb extremeties, etc. After my first panic attack, I recieved another the very next day, and subsequent smaller attacks throughout the week. My psychiatrist wrote me a prescription for Ativan last weekend, which works-- but only temporarily.

My question is, has anyone out there experienced panic attacks from Adderall? I don't know what could be causing my frequent panic attacks, so I'm just throwing out the possibility that Adderall may play a role in inducing panic attacks. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

My question is, has anyone out there experienced panic attacks from Adderall?

Yes, Adderall can definitely cause increased anxiety including panic attacks. Personally, I think that if you're having panic attacks on it, then it's not the drug for you. More likely than not, the Ativan counteracts much of the benefit you would get from the Adderall anyway.

Any of the stimulants can cause increased anxiety. Ritalin (methyphenidate) and it's side-kicks may be *slightly* less likely to cause it than Adderall. You could talk to your doc about trying one of them. Or, it may be that stimulants just aren't for you.

im 18 and ive been on adderall for like 4 or 5 years and i just had a panic attack yesterday and i was wondering if the adderall could be the reason i would very much appreciate it please and thank you

Yes, it can be the reason. Stimulants cause adrenaline, blood pressure and heartrate increase. Adrenaline is the main culprit in anxiety.

im 18 and ive been on adderall for like 4 or 5 years and i just had a panic attack yesterday and i was wondering if the adderall could be the reason i would very much appreciate it please and thank you

Considering you've been taking Adderall for 4-5 years with no panic problems, I highly doubt it caused your attack (unless you took like 2-3x your normal dose).

Side effects can sometimes be culmative, meaning they can appear after many years of taking the drug. I saw a doctor mention this fact which he says isn't really talked about much.

Having anxiety in the past doesn't disclude you from having it now. Many people with add/adhd can develop co-existing disorders, I believe anxiety is a common one. Can you remember what you did the day you had your panic attack, i.e drank a gallon of coffee, etc. Maybee you could lower adderall dosage or add an anti-depressant, perhaps both. :)