Adderall and sex drive: Impact on sex life

Being distracted or losing focus is one of the symptoms of Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or ADHD. So, if you have this disorder, your mind may wander off while having sex or sharing intimate moments with your partner. This may affect your sex life in a negative way. Turns out, even having the ADHD medication, Adderall, may have an impact on your libido. It is true that there is more evidence of men experiencing erectile dysfunction and changes in their libido and performance in bed. Still, women may also experience the sexual side effects of this medication. Read on to know the connection between Adderall and sex drive.

What is Adderall?

Before exploring the link between Adderall and sex drive, know what it is and what’s it used for. It is the trade name for a prescription medication containing a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It is a central nervous system stimulant, a dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor and releaser, which means it increases neurotransmitter levels. “It increases the actions of neurotransmitters and hormones — norepinephrine and dopamine in certain areas of the brain, which may improve attention, concentration, wakefulness, reduce hyperactivity and improve fatigue, sleepiness and depression,” explains psychiatrist Dr Aparna Ramakrishnan.

It is primarily used for the treatment of ADHD and Narcolepsy. While ADHD is a disorder that leads to symptoms like fidgeting and difficulty paying attention, narcolepsy is a condition where the brain finds it difficult to control its ability to sleep or stay awake. Adderall is often used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, as both are associated with a dysfunction of these neurotransmitters in the brain, according to research published in StatPearls.

Adderall and sex drive: How does it affect libido?

Here’s the connection between Adderall and sex drive in women:

1. May increase sex drive

“In some women, Adderall may boost libido, especially if ADHD symptoms were previously interfering with sexual interest or satisfaction,” says obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Meenakshi Banerjee. Amphetamine, part of the medication, may enhance sexual experience, as per research published in the Nordic Studies On Alcohol And Drugs.

“Women with ADHD often experience distraction that affects their sex life. By improving attention and reducing anxiety, the medication may make it easier to be present during sexual activity,” says Dr Banerjee.

Also, dopamine plays a central role in the brain’s reward system, and that includes sexual pleasure. “Another connection between Adderall and sex drive is that the medication boosts dopamine levels. So, it may increase sexual desire or responsiveness in some women,” says the expert.

Also, for some women, the positive association between Adderall and sex drive may be because the prescribed drug reduces emotional overwhelm and enhances energy. This may indirectly lift libido and promote a more positive body image.

2. May decrease sex drive

However, the opposite is also true, as a study, published by the US National Library Of Medicine showed that women may experience decreased libido with Adderall. “For narcolepsy, 5 to 60 mg of the medicine per day is taken in divided doses. For ADHD, it begins with 5 mg once or twice a day (immediate release tablet). Gradually, the dose can increase up to a maximum of 40 mg per day,” says Dr Ramakrishnan. As for the extended release tablet for ADHD, it starts with 10 mg per day, and can gradually increase up to a maximum 30 mg per day. Higher doses or chronic use can affect the levels of hormones like cortisol and prolactin. “This can lead to a decrease in libido and menstrual cycle changes,” says Dr Ramakrishnan.

Dome women may experience a numbing of emotions while on the medication, which may reduce interest in sex. Stimulants can boost energy initially, but they may also lead to crashes or irritability later in the day—both of which can impact libido,” says Dr Banerjee.

3. Impact on orgasm and sexual function

There can be a negative connection between Adderall and sex drive because the medicine may reduce blood flow to private parts, which can make arousal, lubrication, and orgasm more difficult. “While some women find it harder to reach orgasm, others can experience discomfort during sex due to dryness or tension,” says Dr Banerjee.

Adderall and sex drive: What can be done?

The connection between Adderall and sex drive can be both positive and negative. If it is affecting your libido, do the following:

• Talk to your doctor: Never adjust the dose or stop taking the medication without consulting a doctor first. A change in dosage, timing, or switching to another ADHD treatment may help.
• Monitor timing: Some women experience fewer side effects if they adjust when they take the medication.
• Stay hydrated and consider vaginal moisturisers if dryness is an issue.
  Explore therapy or couples counselling if sexual changes affect relationships.

Adderall and sex drive may be linked. While it can enhance libido and focus for some, it may reduce desire or sexual satisfaction for others. Consulting a doctor is key to finding the right balance for both mental and sexual health.