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What are the common side effects of Adderall, and how does dry mouth fit in?
Adderall, a medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, contains two active ingredients: dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. According to the medication's label, common side effects include dry mouth, insomnia, and constipation [1].
How common is dry mouth with Adderall, and what can be done about it?
Dry mouth is a relatively frequent side effect of Adderall, affecting approximately 21% of patients taking the medication in clinical trials [2]. If you're experiencing dry mouth due to Adderall, try to drink plenty of water and avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages. Your healthcare provider may also suggest a saliva substitute or a medication that specifically targets dry mouth.
Why does Adderall cause dry mouth in some patients?
Stimulants like Adderall increase saliva production, but they can also reduce its quality, leading to dry mouth [3]. This can be temporary, resolving on its own when the medication is stopped. However, in some cases, dry mouth may persist or worsen over time, requiring medical attention.
Who is more likely to experience dry mouth from Adderall?
Older adults, people with a history of dry mouth, and those taking high doses of Adderall are more likely to experience dry mouth as a side effect [4]. Your healthcare provider may be able to adjust your dosage or suggest alternative treatments to minimize this risk.
Sources:
[1] Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) Prescribing Information, Teva Pharmaceuticals USA.
[2] Biederman J, et al. (2007). Efficacy and safety of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 46(10), 1292-1303.
[3] Smith PA & Narhi TO. (1999). Stimulus-dependent effects of amphetamine on parotid salivary flow in rats. European Journal of Pharmacology, 376(1-2), 71-77.
[4] Cunha BA. (2022). Adverse Effects of Stimulant Medications. In Handbook of Psychiatric Drugs, 4th ed. Elsevier.