Does Adderall increase heart rate? (+5 factors)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss whether Adderall increases heart rate. We will also explore research studies linking the use of Adderall to heart rate fluctuations. Additionally, we will discuss the factors that may influence or increase heart rate with Adderall. Finally, we will delve into the management tips for Adderall-induced irregular heart rate.
Does Adderall increase heart rate?
Yes, Adderall does increase heart rate. Cardiovascular side effects of Adderall are common and may affect some individuals. However, individual responses to medications may vary, and these side effects do not occur in all individuals who take this medication.
Adderall is a psychostimulant medication prescribed in healthcare settings for the management of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders. The use of these medications should be approached cautiously, as they may cause side effects that can impact the quality of life for some individuals, such as hypertension, hallucinations, gastrointestinal discomfort, constipation, sexual side effects, and sleep disturbances (1).
What does research suggest?
According to research, Adderall is associated with specific cardiovascular side effects, including irregular and increased heart rate (4).
In a study, the use of Adderall at dosages ranging from 5 to 10 mg daily led to an increase in heart rate by 7 beats per minute, accompanied by other cardiovascular side effects such as alterations in blood pressure and myocardial perfusion (2).
The FDA highlights that the risk of heart rate fluctuations and changes in blood pressure with Adderall is more common in individuals with pre-existing cardiac diseases and those using the medication for an extended period. On average, Adderall increases the heart rate by 5 beats per minute (3).
What factors may influence the heart rate with Adderall?
There are several factors that can influence heart rate while using Adderall. These factors may include:
| Dosage | A higher dosage of Adderall is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular side effects, including palpitations. |
| Unhealthy diet | Unhealthy dietary choices, alcohol consumption, and the use of caffeine-containing products may also impact cardiovascular side effects when using Adderall. |
| Concurrent medications | Concurrent use of Adderall with medications that also influence heart rate, such as albuterol, pseudoephedrine, and methylphenidate, may contribute to an elevated heart rate. |
| Medical conditions | Individuals with certain underlying medical conditions, including atrial fibrillation, anemia, and ventricular tachycardia, are more susceptible to fluctuations in heart rate while taking Adderall. |
| Individual sensitivity | The risk of experiencing alterations in heart rate may also be influenced by individual sensitivity to Adderall and genetic factors. |
What to do if Adderall increases heart rate?
If you experience cardiovascular side effects such as palpitations, changes in blood pressure, syncope, or any other unusual symptoms after taking Adderall, you should consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They will assess your condition and determine the cause of your symptoms.
If Adderall is responsible for the symptoms you’re experiencing, they may recommend changes to your treatment plan, including dosage adjustments or complete discontinuation, based on the severity of your symptoms or the presence of underlying cardiovascular conditions.
Your healthcare provider may suggest an alternative medication, such as fluvoxamine or lisdexamfetamine for ADHD, or any other medication depending on the condition for which Adderall was prescribed. The alternatives are chosen for their lower likelihood of causing cardiovascular side effects.
What are the management tips for increased heart rate?
Management of Adderall-induced palpitations may include both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, which may include:
Non-Pharmacological Interventions
- Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet
- Limit the intake of stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine
- Ensure proper hydration
- Practice stress-reducing exercises
- Ensure sufficient and quality sleep each night
Pharmacological interventions:
Pharmacological interventions for managing increased heart rate may involve the use of medications to restore normal heart rhythm. Examples of such medications include:
- beta-blockers like propranolol
- calcium channel blockers like diltiazem
- antiarrhythmic medications like sotalol
It’s crucial to use these medications only under the prescription and guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid unwanted and potentially serious side effects. Self-medication or inappropriate use can lead to complications, so it’s important to follow the healthcare provider’s recommendations closely.
In my opinion, psychostimulant medications like Adderall should always be used cautiously due to their potential to cause serious cardiovascular complications in susceptible patients. You should always use this medication under the supervision of a healthcare provider to ensure the safety and efficacy of the treatment.
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References
1.-
Fitzgerald KT, Bronstein AC. Adderall® (amphetamine-dextroamphetamine) toxicity. Top Companion Anim Med. 2013 Feb;28(1):2-7. doi: 10.1053/j.tcam.2013.03.002. PMID: 23796480. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23796480
2.-
Sprigg N, Willmot MR, Gray LJ, Sunderland A, Pomeroy V, Walker M, Bath PM. Amphetamine increases blood pressure and heart rate but has no effect on motor recovery or cerebral haemodynamics in ischaemic stroke: a randomized controlled trial (ISRCTN 36285333). J Hum Hypertens. 2007 Aug;21(8):616-24. doi: 10.1038/sj.jhh.1002205. Epub 2007 Apr 19. PMID: 17443208. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17443208/
4.-
Fitzgerald KT, Bronstein AC. Adderall® (amphetamine-dextroamphetamine) toxicity. Top Companion Anim Med. 2013 Feb;28(1):2-7. doi: 10.1053/j.tcam.2013.03.002. PMID: 23796480. ahttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23796480/
