Adderall and Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Written by Ben Bunting: BA, PGCert. (Sport & Exercise Nutrition) // British Army Physical Training Instructor // S&C Coach.

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This article will cover the side effects, physical and psychological benefits, and the possible risks of these drugs. Keep reading to learn more. This article also provides information on the drug interactions between testosterone and adderall.

Adderall Explained

Adderall is a common stimulant used to treat Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It helps to improve alertness, focus, and concentration, but there are a few things you should know before you begin taking this medication. Adderall is a blend of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine.

Side Effects

Some men experience unwanted side effects of Adderall, which can affect their sexual performance and desire. However, men can also experience erectile dysfunction caused by other medications that can affect blood vessels in the body. The potential side effect of Adderall on sex life is a serious concern. This drug can cause a person to become anxious or upset, and can also cause erection difficulties.

You should also be aware that Adderall can interact with alcohol. Alcohol and Adderall work differently in the body, so mixing the two can lead to adverse health effects. Because alcohol increases heart rate, you may not realize how much alcohol you are drinking. Then, you may be prone to drinking more than you should, leading to a night of high-risk behavior. In addition, alcohol and Adderall can affect your heart's functioning and make you more prone to heart disease and alcohol poisoning.

Physical and psychological effects

A study of male patients taking Adderall and testosterone replacement therapy found that both drugs significantly increase ratings of positive emotion. Interestingly,

Adderall only affects positively valenced states. Adderall is a highly selective stimulant. However, it does have some side effects, including dilation of the pupils. Those with glaucoma should not take the drug. Patients should be monitored for changes in vision, which could indicate a tolerance. If so, the dosage should be increased until symptoms are corrected.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) risk

ED is defined as the inability of a man to achieve sufficient penile rigidity for sexual satisfaction. In men, ED is often the symptom of underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease, kidney dysfunction or low testosterone. Left untreated, these conditions can significantly limit quality of life and even reduce a man's life expectancy. In addition, ED negatively affects a man's mental health, his relationship with his partner, and his general well-being. Identifying and treating these underlying medical conditions is crucial to improving men's sexual health and quality of life.

A 2015 study found that amphetamine use was associated with a higher incidence of erectile dysfunction when compared to those who didn't use them.

If you suspect that your Adderall use is contributing to your ED, it is crucial to tell your health care provider as soon as possible. It is important to tell your doctor right away that you've noticed symptoms of ED, as sudden withdrawal can have a severe physical and psychological impact. If symptoms persist, contact your doctor as soon as possible, as ED may be a sign of an underlying health problem, including hormonal imbalance, neurological disease, and psychiatric problems.

Cardiovascular

It is still up for debate whether Adderall and other similar drugs cause significant cardiovascular risk. The most common side effects include hypertension, tachycardia, emotional lability, and increased body temperature, or hyperthermia. These side effects may not last long, so it is not worth risking your health to try the drug without a doctor's prescription.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

When people hear about testosterone replacement therapy, they generally think of it as a non-essential, elective procedure. However, low-T is a serious health concern that has significant implications for male sexuality and reproduction. Low-T is also linked to increased risk for heart disease, diabetes, and visceral fat. Fortunately, there are many reasons for seeking help for this condition. 

The first and most effective form of testosterone replacement therapy is subdermal testosterone pellets, which are made through high-temperature molding and have been approved for use in the USA by the FDA. This product is designed for extended, consistent release, and absorption by the nasal mucosa, avoiding first-pass metabolism. The dosage of testosterone is determined by the patient's age and response to the therapy, but general dosing recommendations are 150 to 450 mg injected subdermally into the hip at three to six-month intervals. Testosterone pellets are available in generic 12.5, 25, 37, and 50 mg pellets.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy Side Effects

However, testosterone therapy is not for everyone. Some men should not undergo the treatment, as it may increase their risk of developing prostate cancer. Additionally, men with liver or kidney problems may not be candidates for this treatment. 

There are many potential side effects of testosterone replacement therapy, including increased risk of strokes, blood clots, and heart attacks. In addition, men with a history of breast cancer, severe urinary tract problems, or uncontrolled heart failure should not use testosterone replacement therapy. To avoid these side effects, men should schedule regular follow-up appointments with their doctors. 

This risk is highest during the first six months of treatment and decreases with discontinuation. In addition, research has shown that men suffering from cardiovascular disease may increase their risk of heart attack after taking testosterone therapy. If you are considering taking this therapy, it is important to to discuss it in depth with a medical professional.

Testosterone and Adderall Interactions

There isn't a lot of available research which looks in to the effects both of these treatments may have on each other. 

However, research published by the British Journal of Pharmacology in 1996 did analyze the effects of amphetamine on testosterone secretion. This study used rats and found that amphetamine had a negative effect on testosterone production.

More recent research published in 2017 found that a stimulant called methylphenidate which is the compound found in similar stimulant drugs to treat a similar condition found that low usage didn't cause much of an effect on testosterone levels. 

Conclusion

Both forms of treatment come with their own set of risks. Both treatments are not to be taken lightly, and must only be prescribed by a doctor, and whether the two treatments should be combined would be down to the patients individual circumstances and judgement of the medical professional. 

However, it appears there isn't much evidence available regarding combining the two therapies, but what evidence is available does suggest that adderall reduces natural testosterone secretion.