Adderall and Migraines

It has been reported that migraines may be a side effect of Adderall. Migraine headaches were reported in clinical studies in as many as 26 percent of those who were taking Adderall XR; information on Adderall is not currently available. Patients who are taking Adderall and experience migraine headaches should consult with their doctor as soon as possible.

Can Adderall Cause Migraine Headaches?

There are a variety of potential side effects associated with Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) as well as with Adderall XR (amphetamine-dextroamphetamine extended release). Studies suggest that migraine headaches may be one of those. It may even be one of the more common side effects of both Adderall as well as Adderall XR.

What are Clinical Trials of Adderall?

In order for medicines to be approved, they must first undergo several clinical studies, During these studies thousands of people will be given the medicine. They are then compared against another group that was not given the drug. The side effect results are then documented and reported. Through these tests, the potential Adderall side effects can gauged as to how they occur, how often do they occur, and can be compared against the group taking the placebo. The reported side effects are separated into those that are reported to occur in 1 percent or more of those who took the real medicine and those that occurred in fewer than 1 percent. Migraine headaches, as well as other types of headaches, were reported in as many as 26 percent of the adults who were taking Adderall XR. Children who were taking Adderall XR did not report as many headaches.

Treatment Suggestions for Migraines:

Doctors know migraines can be caused by many things, and the drug Adderall may be on that list. Your doctor cannot know in advance if Adderall will cause migraines in you. If you happen to experience any migraine headaches while on Adderall tell your doctor. Your healthcare provider may be able to suggest remedies to relieve pain or stop them entirely. Keep in mind that migraines may be caused by factors other than your medicine. If this is the case, you may be given a prescription for migraine headache medicine. When Adderall is suspected to cause migraines, the doctor may need to reduce your Adderall dosage. He or she may need to change your current medication altogether.

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