Intermittent fasting has become a popular way to lose weight, improve health, and simplify eating for many people. This eating pattern involves alternating between periods of fasting and eating. The most common intermittent fasting method is 16/8, where you fast for 16 hours and restrict eating to an 8 hour window.
If you do intermittent fasting, you may wonder if you can take prescription medications like Adderall during your fasting window.
Adderall is commonly used to treat ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Generally speaking, Adderall does not directly break your fast. However, it can make fasting more difficult due to side effects.
Read on to learn more about using Adderall while intermittent fasting.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription stimulant medication used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It contains a combination of amphetamine salts that stimulate the central nervous system. Specifically, Adderall increases levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters help regulate attention, focus, and impulsive behavior.
The two main types of Adderall are:
- Immediate Release – Taken 2-3 times per day
- Extended Release (XR) – Taken once daily
Extended release Adderall provides more consistent symptom relief over time than the immediate release form.
People who have ADHD take Adderall to help improve concentration, motivation, and mental clarity. The stimulant effects also reduce hyperactivity symptoms.
Does Adderall Break A Fast?
The main concern with taking Adderall while fasting is that it could spike insulin levels, technically breaking your fasted state. However, research suggests Adderall does not cause significant insulin release or raise blood sugar levels for most people.
Some key points:
- Adderall itself contains no calories, carbs, fat or protein.
- Studies show amphetamines may cause a small insulin response in some individuals but not enough to disrupt fasting.
- Adderall does not appear to impact blood glucose levels directly.
- Long-term use may improve insulin sensitivity.
Therefore, Adderall likely does not break a fast or kick you out of ketosis. It can generally be taken during your fasting window without worry.
Tips for Using Adderall While Intermittent Fasting
Here are some tips to follow when taking Adderall during your fasting window:
- Take Adderall first thing in the morning to prevent sleep issues.
- Drink plenty of water – stimulants can cause dehydration.
- Know that side effects like anxiety, headache, and irritability may intensify without food.
- Consider adjusting your eating window if needed. For example, eat shortly after taking Adderall, then fast the rest of the day.
- Monitor hunger levels – Adderall may completely suppress appetite for some.
- Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about taking Adderall while fasting.
Can Adderall Make Fasting More Difficult?
While Adderall may not directly break your fast, it can make fasting more challenging due to side effects including:
- Insomnia and disrupted sleep patterns
- Anxiety or feelings of restlessness
- Headaches
- Dry mouth and dehydration
- Irritation of the stomach lining if taken for too long on an empty stomach
- Changes in appetite – some may overeat when food is introduced after fasting
Those sensitive to stimulants may find these effects are amplified when taking Adderall during the fasting period without food. Extended fasting may also not be advisable when taking stimulant medication.
The Bottom Line
Research indicates Adderall does not spike insulin or blood sugar enough to break your fast technically. However, pay attention to how you feel when taking Adderall while fasting. If side effects become difficult to manage, consider adjusting your fasting schedule and talk to your doctor. With some care, many find they can successfully combine intermittent fasting and medications like Adderall.