Does Adderall increase mucus? 

Does Adderall increase mucus? 

Adderall may or may not increase your mucus or it may or may not increase the thickness of the existing mucus to the point where it starts to disturb you. Adderall enhances your sympathetic nervous system by increasing the amounts of norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. 

The sympathetic nervous system, once activated, reduces your body’s secretions. It dries your mouth by reducing saliva secretion and the same way it dries out your throat. 

The moisture in the mucus layer in your throat may decrease and become thick. This thick mucus can form a mucus plug, which can trigger coughing. In such a case, it’s important to consult with your doctor. 

Some common cold and cough medications should not be taken with Adderall because of the potential drug-drug interactions. 

What does research suggest?

Research suggests that increased mucus production is not a commonly reported side effect of Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine). The specific incidence of increased mucus as a side effect of Adderall is not well-established. (1,2)

It’s important to note that individual responses to medications can vary, and some people may experience unique or rare side effects. Regarding the possible mechanism of this side effect, there is limited scientific information available.

Adderall is a stimulant medication that affects the central nervous system, increasing levels of certain chemicals in the brain to improve focus and reduce hyperactivity. (3)

While Adderall primarily acts on neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, it is not directly associated with increased mucus production. If you are experiencing an unusual increase in mucus while taking Adderall, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider.

What to do if Adderall increases your mucus? 

If Adderall increases your mucus and makes you cough, talk to your doctor. Your healthcare provider will determine the most suitable solution for you. In some cases, OTC medications are added to your treatment regimen. However, a few tips can help you out:

  • Drink warm honey water. Honey will soothe your throat and warm water will make your mucus melt and unclog your throat. 
  • Do not drink cold water or your mucus will become thicker. 
  • You can try gargling with lukewarm salt water. 
  • Sip on some bone broth and soup. 

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References

1.-

Martin D, Le JK. Amphetamine. 2022 Aug 1. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 32310563. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556103

2.-

Berman SM, Kuczenski R, McCracken JT, London ED. Potential adverse effects of amphetamine treatment on brain and behavior: a review. Mol Psychiatry. 2009 Feb;14(2):123-42. doi: 10.1038/mp.2008.90. Epub 2008 Aug 12. Erratum in: Mol Psychiatry. 2010 Nov;15(11):1121. PMID: 18698321; PMCID: PMC2670101. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2670101/

3.-

Sharbaf Shoar N, Marwaha R, Molla M. Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine. 2023 May 23. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29939585. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507808