Key Points

  • Adderall is used as a narcolepsy and ADHD treatment.
  • Adderall belongs to the stimulant class of medications.
  • Adderall is a Schedule II Controlled Substance due to its proclivity to misuse and abuse.
  • Abusing Adderall during pregnancy can result in complications for both the baby and the mother.
  • Adderall use has been linked to low birth weight in some studies.
  • Using Adderall as prescribed is not likely to result in birth defects.
  • It is unknown if men who use Adderall are at risk of having babies with birth defects.
  • Adderall use has not been linked to an increase in miscarriage.
  • Women with a high-risk pregnancy may opt for a safer alternative to Adderall.

During pregnancy, women must avoid certain substances to ensure their baby’s safety. This includes limiting caffeine intake, avoiding raw seafood, and being cautious with over-the-counter and prescription medications. While Adderall does not carry a specific warning against use by pregnant women, concerns about its effects on both the current and future health of the baby remain valid. Although there is primarily anecdotal evidence suggesting risks like miscarriage and birth defects, some studies indicate a possible link between Adderall use and low birth weight.

In this blog, we will explore the effects of Adderall during pregnancy and examine any potential risks it may pose to a baby after birth.

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is a stimulant medication formulated from two active chemicals: dextroamphetamine and amphetamine.[1] This central nervous system stimulant has a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for the treatment of narcolepsy and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).[2][3]

As a stimulant, Adderall helps to counter deficiencies in the central nervous system that cause people with narcolepsy to drop off to sleep at inappropriate times, such as driving or walking.[4][5] It also improves symptoms of ADHD, such as impulsivity and difficulty concentrating.

Is Adderall Safe To Take During Pregnancy?

Research has concluded that taking Adderall during pregnancy does not increase the risk of birth defects when used as directed.[6] They also found that taking Adderall before becoming pregnant doesn’t make it any harder to get pregnant. It must be noted that these studies only highlight the risks of taking Adderall as prescribed, not in abusive doses.

Can Adderall Cause a Miscarriage?

Miscarriage can be caused by several different factors, some within the mother-to-be’s control. While miscarriage is common, a miscarriage induced by Adderall usage is not likely if taken as prescribed.[7][6] If you have a high-risk pregnancy or are at a greater risk of miscarriage, it is best to discuss your concerns with your physician, who may alter your medication or provide you with an alternative for the time being.

Will Adderall Use Cause Birth Defects in Pregnant Women?

Will Adderall Cause Birth Defects

Studies conclude that every pregnancy has a 3 to 5% chance of having a birth defect.[8] This is known as a background risk.[8] Studies about the use of Adderall during pregnancy, specifically the first trimester, do not show any increase in birth defect risks, even in larger studies where people were tracked throughout all three trimesters.

To keep the risk of birth defects low, it is best to take your medication as prescribed. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember it, or skip it completely so you don’t double up the doses. Doubling the dose could result in a flood of stimulants in your bloodstream, which could lead to birth defects or an overdose.

Are There Any Other Risks Associated With Taking Adderall During Pregnancy?

Unfortunately, the data on pregnancy risks related to Adderall is limited. However, some studies reveal a higher chance of pregnancy-related problems, such as low birth weight, pre-term delivery, and poor growth.[9] Heart rate, blood pressure, or weight changes may be related to these risks, but the connections are unclear.

If you experience the following side effects when taking Adderall, contact your healthcare provider to improve the outcome of a healthy pregnancy:[10]

  • Pain when urinating
  • Bladder pain
  • Bloody urine
  • Cloudy urine
  • Trouble urinating
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Fast or pounding heartbeat.
  • Urinary frequency
  • Lower back pain

Serious side effects such as chills, fever, or vomiting should be reported immediately.[10]

Should I Stop Taking Adderall if I Become Pregnant?

There’s no need to stop using Adderall if you become pregnant. However, it is best to notify your physician of any changes in your health, including becoming pregnant. Should your physician see a reason for you to discontinue the use of Adderall, they will most likely taper your dose to avoid uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and switch you to another medication, although this is uncommon.

Will Abruptly Stopping Adderall Cause Withdrawal Symptoms?

Yes, some individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms when abruptly stopping Adderall.[11] Common Adderall withdrawal symptoms include:[11]

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Adderall cravings
  • Fatigue
  • Increased appetite
  • Lack of motivation

Withdrawal is more likely in individuals who misuse prescription Adderall,  have become tolerant to its effects, or struggle with Adderall addiction. This means they require more of the medication to feel its benefits.

Since Adderall manipulates reward centers in the brain, abrupt cessation can result in several unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms occur within 24 hours of taking the last dose and can persist for weeks.[11]

Are There Alternative Treatments for Pregnant Women With ADHD?

ADHD is a condition that requires medication for some people to function normally. This is especially true for pregnant women with the condition, who may have a more difficult time concentrating due to hormonal changes.[12] However, some women may be hesitant to take Adderall during pregnancy for fear that it could lead to low birth weight or other birth defects. Although limited studies outline these risks, it’s understandable to express concerns.

Luckily, there are several well-studied alternatives for people who are concerned about taking Adderall while pregnant, one of which is bupropion.[13]

If My Partner Took Adderall, Would It Increase the Risk of Our Baby Having Birth Defects?

It is unknown if men taking Adderall have an increased risk of having a baby born with birth defects or low birth weight. It is also unknown how Adderall usage affects their fertility. However, MotherToBaby states that a father’s exposure is not likely to cause adverse effects in their unborn child.[14]

Should I Stop Using Adderall To Avoid Any Potential Complications?

If you’ve been prescribed Adderall, your doctor has determined that the benefits of using it far outweigh the risks. However, once you become pregnant, you should inform your physician. If your pregnancy is high-risk, they may swap out your prescription Adderall for a safer non-stimulant alternative.

You should avoid altering your prescribed schedule in any way. Stopping Adderall suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, some of which can be life-threatening.