Mixing Xanax & Adderall | Effects & Dangers

Xanax is the brand name of alprazolam, a benzodiazepine (or benzo) used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and other anxiety disorders. 

Adderall (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) is a stimulant that treats those struggling with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder. It can also be used to treat narcolepsy and other sleeping disorders.

Xanax and Adderall are prescription drugs that are also considered controlled substances. They should never be combined due to their addictive properties and potentially harmful effects.

Effects & Dangers Of Mixing Xanax & Adderall

Mixing Adderall with Xanax puts you at an increased risk of suffering serious health issues. For instance, taking both Xanax and Adderall can dangerously increase or decrease the effects of each substance.

Risky Drug Interactions

This means that the effects of these drugs can interact with one another, causing one of the medications to be less or more effective. With stimulant drugs such as Adderall, a person may be more active and become out of breath. 

When this happens, this is a cause for concern as Xanax and other benzodiazepines such as Valium can lead to respiratory depression when taken in large quantities, with alcohol, or mixed with other benzos.

Mood & Behavior changes

The combination of Adderall and Xanax can also affect the brain and changes in mood and behavior. This may result in worsened mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness.

Substance Use Disorder

You also run the risk of addiction when you combine Adderall and Xanax. Once addiction develops, both substances can cause serious withdrawal symptoms that may include:

• seizures
• tremors
• blood pressure fluctuations
• irritability
• rapid heart rate
• depression
• nightmares
• suicidal thoughts
• anxiety

Both Xanax and Adderall addiction can lead to an increased risk of severe side effects, especially when these medications are abused at the same time.

Xanax Addiction

Xanax is a depressant that targets the central nervous system (CNS). 

Xanax abuse is a significant risk due to the addictive nature of the medication. Xanax is prescribed for only a short amount of time due to the high potential of prescription drug abuse from the medication. 

When Xanax is combined with opioids, alcohol, or other benzodiazepines, serious respiratory depression may occur due to the multiple depressants one has taken.

Common Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of Xanax include:

• dizziness
• drowsiness
• impaired coordination
• fatigue
• lightheadedness
• difficulty concentrating

Serious Side Effects

More serious side effects from Xanax use are:

• increased heart rate
• ​shortness of breath
• passing out
• headaches
• memory impairment
• suicidal thoughts

Adderall Addiction

Adderall is a stimulant medication that raises the levels of dopamine and neurotransmitters in the brain. While this stimulant is helpful to those suffering from hyperactivity and even impulsivity, it can provide a sense of euphoria. 

Adderall has been known to be heavily abused by college students and other young adults who try to study for a test the night before or desire to be more active. Adderall is also abused by those hoping to lose weight.

Common Side Effects

Some of the short-term effects of Adderall use are:

• diarrhea
• insomnia
• changes in sex drive
• upset stomach
• loss of appetite
• nervousness
• headache

Serious Side Effects

Those struggling with Adderall abuse may have long-term side effects including:

• increased heart rate
• shortness of breath
• panic attacks
• dizziness
• depression
• teeth grinding
• changes in vision

Substance Abuse Treatment

If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use, treatment programs can help. Addiction treatment plans likely include detox programs, behavioral therapy, support groups, and more. Services are available in both inpatient and outpatient treatment centers. 

To learn about our treatment options, please contact us today.