Adderall and sex drive: Is low libido a side effect of this ADHD medication?

Distractions and loss of focus are one of the symptoms of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder or ADHD. Therefore, if you have this disorder, your mind will be confused as you have sex and share intimate moments with your partner. This can affect your sex life in a negative way. After all, even Adderall, a drug therapy for ADHD, can affect your libido. It is true that there is more evidence that men experience erectile dysfunction, changing sexual desire and performing in bed. Still, women may also experience sexual side effects from the drug. Read on to learn about the relationship between Adderall and Sex Drive.

What is Adderall?

Before exploring the link between Adderall and Sex Drive, know what it is and what it is used for. This is the product name for a prescription drug that contains a combination of amphetamine and dextromphetamine. This is a central nervous system stimulant, dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor and releaser, meaning that it increases neurotransmitter levels. “Increasing the effects of neurotransmitters and hormones — norepinephrine and dopamine improve attention, concentration, arousal, reduce hyperactivity, and improve fatigue, drowsiness and depression,” explains the psychiatrist.

It is mainly used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. ADHD is a disorder that leads to symptoms that are fidgety and difficult to pay attention to, while narcolepsy is a condition in which the brain feels difficult to control the ability to sleep and stay awake. According to a study published in Statpearls, both are associated with dysfunction of these neurotransmitters in the brain, and are often used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy.

Adderall and Sex Drive: How does it affect Libido?

This is the relationship between Adderall and a woman’s sex drive.

1. It may increase sexual impulses

“In some women, Adderall may increase sexual desire, especially if ADHD symptoms have previously hindered sexual interest or satisfaction,” says obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Meenakshi Banerjee. Amphetamines, part of the drug, can enhance sexual experiences, according to research published in Nordic Studies on Alcohol and Drugs.

“Women with ADHD often experience distractions that affect their sex lives. By focusing attention and reducing anxiety, drug therapy can make them easier to be present during sexual activity,” says Dr. Banerjee.

Dopamine also plays a central role in the brain’s reward system, including sexual pleasure. “Another relationship between Adderall and Sex Drive is that the drug increases dopamine levels, which can therefore increase sexual desires and reactivity in some women,” experts say.

Also, for some women, the positive association between Adderall and Sex Drive may be because the prescribed drugs reduce emotional overwhelm and increase energy. This could indirectly lift libido and promote a more positive body image.

2. It may reduce sexual impulses

However, a study published by the National Library of Medicine showed that women could experience a reduced libido with Adderall. “In narcolepsy, 5-60 mg of medication is taken in divided doses per day. With ADHD, it starts once or twice a day (immediate release tablets). Gradually, the dose can increase to a maximum of 40 mg per day.” For extended release tablets for ADHD, it can start at 10 mg per day and gradually increase to a maximum of 30 mg per day. High doses or chronic use can affect levels of hormones such as cortisol and prolactin. “This can reduce changes in sexual desire and menstrual cycle,” says Dr. Ramakrishnan.

Women at the dome may experience many emotions while taking the medication. Meth can boost energy at first, but it can lead to crashes and irritability later in the day.

3. Orgasm and its impact on sexual function

There is a negative relationship between Adderall and sexual urges, as medications can reduce blood flow to the private parts. “Some women find it difficult to reach orgasms, but sometimes they feel uncomfortable during their gender due to dryness and tension,” says Dr. Banerjee.

Adderall and Sex Drive: What can you do?

The relationship between Adderall and Sex Drive is both positive and negative. If that is affecting your sexual desire, do the following:

• Consult your doctor: Do not adjust your dosage or take medication without first consulting your doctor. Changes in dosage, timing, or switching to another ADHD treatment may be helpful.
• Monitoring Timing: Some women will experience fewer side effects when adjusted when taking medication.
• If dryness is a problem, stay hydrated and consider a vaginal moisturizer.
  If sexual changes affect the relationship, explore treatment or couple counseling.

Adderall and Sex Drive may be linked. It can strengthen libido and focus on some people, but it can reduce desire and sexual satisfaction towards others. Talking with your doctor is key to finding the right balance for both mental and sexual health.