Is it Safe to Mix Weed and Adderall? Drug Interactions with Cannabis

Much of the clinical understanding we have of cannabis points to the fact that cannabis is a relatively safe and versatile supplement for managing mental and physical stress.

As cannabis becomes more commonplace, many people are turning to weed as a solution to balance the side effects of other substances like Adderall. In this article, we will explore what can happen when mixing weed and Adderall and what other drugs to avoid when taking either.

While cannabis is often advertised as a natural alternative to reduce the need for certain medications, we find more often that it is an incredible tool for safely treating side effects of life-saving treatments many cannot live without. Even though cannabis also offers a similar benefit for stimulant side effects, there are serious consequences for heart health and substance abuse. 

Below, we gathered all the details on Adderall and weed so you can prevent a health emergency and make an informed choice on consuming cannabis safely.

The side effects of weed and Adderall on their own

While the combination of weed and Adderall takes on their unique effects and health risks, to understand how they function together, we must first understand how they work on their own. 

Cannabis is classified as both a stimulant, a sedative, and a psychedelic substance, Adderall is a common stimulant. 

The effects of Adderall

Composed of four amphetamine salts, Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant designed to restore balance and clarity to the mind. This commonly used stimulant is meant to increase the dopamine and norepinephrine levels within the brain. This can offer someone more consistent focus, particularly those managing symptoms of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). 

Outside of therapeutic use, Adderall is used by non-ADHD consumers to improve performance or pleasure recreationally. 

Adderall begins to take effect within 1 hour and will remain active in a person's system for up to four to twelve hours. Along with its mental effects, Adderall also comes with some minor side effects and the potential for high risks with Adderall overdose. There are also peer support groups for folks who abuse weed and stimulants like Adderall too much.

Side effects of Adderall

• Dry mouth

• Increased heart rate

• Depression (comedown)

• Anxiety

• Insomnia

• Headaches

• Weight loss 

• Changes in sex drive

• Diarrhea

However, long term use of Adderall may bring more serious side effects: 

• Irregular heartbeat

• Shortness of breath/breathing problems

• Difficult/slow speech

• Dizziness/faintness

• Seizures

• Weakness/numbness in a limb

• Chest pains

• Excessive exhaustion/tiredness

• Seizures

• Motor and verbal tics

• Paranoia

• Hallucinations

• Mania/ Mental illness

• Aggressive/hostile behavior

• Blurred vision

• Swelling of the face

• Hoarseness

• Fever

• Blistering skin

• Rash/hives/itching

• Drug addiction & withdrawal symptoms

Cannabis side effects

Known for its euphoric, heady, and pain-relieving effects, cannabis is a safe and enjoyable option for anyone looking to tap into the benefits of this plant. Though cannabis is a relatively safe and innocuous substance, at high doses, it can come with some pretty potent side effects. 

These unpleasant effects can be amplified by both the user’s tolerance levels and the potency of the weed or extract. Some of these effects could look like: 

Overdose of cannabis can look like:

• Paranoia/Anxiety

• Appetite stimulation/suppression

• Depression

• Blood pressure spike

• Hallucinations

• Elevated heart rate

• Brain fog

• Lethargy, sedation, inactivity

In some cases, you might experience a combination of these effects when consuming cannabis.

The effects will fade within 2-4 hours and can be managed by proper hydration, blood sugar levels, and maybe a little CBD from hemp. If experiencing an overdose or cannabis-induced panic, eating a small amount of sugar or fruit and drinking water could soothe your mind and body. To avoid cannabis tolerance issues, taking regular breaks when using cannabis long term can prevent any build-up in your system that may lead to chronic headaches or nausea. 

TWl4aW5nIDxhIGhyZWY9Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmZsaWdodDJ2ZWdhcy5jb20vYmxvZ3MvbmV3cy0xL21peGluZy13ZWVkLWFuZC1jYWZmZWluZSI+PHN0cm9uZz5jYW5uYWJpcyB3aXRoIG90aGVyIHN1YnN0YW5jZXM8L3N0cm9uZz48L2E+IGlzIGFub3RoZXIgc3RvcnksIGVzcGVjaWFsbHkgc3RpbXVsYW50cw==. Even classic combinations like coffee and cannabis may actually have some unfavorable side effects when paired together. 

Mixing with cannabis: helpful or harmful?

When it comes to managing both physical and mental health symptoms, we may need to take more than one prescription or treatment to achieve the quality of life we’re after. Occasionally, this can put you at risk for other complications, depending on how the drugs interact. You may also experience prescribing cascades, treating the side effects of a prescription medication rather than the underlying cause. Occasionally, this can be managed very safely with proper dosing and monitoring. 

It is common for people to opt to mix substances that balance out or even negate the unpleasant effects of some pharmaceuticals. We see cannabis used successfully in cancer treatment clinics within the US, as cannabis is an excellent antiemetic and can help stabilize appetite and sleep for patients undergoing chemotherapy. 

However, there are some substances that may not be as safe to mix with weed, like blood thinners, antiplatelet drugs, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Additionally, cannabis should not be paired with an illicit drug or sedative drugs like barbiturates or narcotics as it may exaggerate or intensify the effects, leading to further health and safety risks. 

Though mixing Adderall with cannabis may come with some negative long-term effects, its immediate effects are something many people are combining the two to combat the unpleasant effects of Adderall. It is clear to see how cannabis could reduce some of the side effects of long-term Adderall use, balance the nervous system, and maintain a healthy appetite and sleep cycle. 

Although these benefits may sound enticing, it is key to understand proper dosing and safety risks before attempting to combine Adderall with Cannabis.

Mixing weed and Adderall

The primary effect that people are looking to experience from mixing weed and Adderall is increased stimulation. Some users report that cannabis elevates levels of euphoria while softening anxiety associated with an Adderall high.

Weed can calm, regulate, and restore the nervous system to optimal function. Its soothing qualities and appetite-stimulating qualities make it easier for people who consume Adderall to maintain a happy and healthy diet and sleep pattern. However, this could have adverse long-term effects overall. 

Since cannabis can often come with psychoactive or stimulating effects, cannabis can increase the strain on the cardiovascular system that Adderall already causes. Both substances cause your heart rate to spike, making it dangerous for anyone with a pre-existing heart condition. 

The risks of consuming cannabis and Adderall together

The effects of Adderall and weed can be somewhat unpredictable. While Adderall is a stimulant, cannabis can often present as a stimulant, depressant, or psychedelic. When examining the major risks of this combo, there are four complications that can occur. 

1. Heart problems

Of all the risks, heart health is at the top of the list when mixing weed and Adderall. Both compounds are known to increase heart rate, together putting a large strain on your heart muscle. Combining these compounds results in an increased chance of arrhythmia, blood pressure irregularities, and heart attack. 

2. Mental health problems

Mixing these two can present risks of developing or exaggerating pre-existing conditions like anxiety, depression, mania, and suicidal tendencies. Further mental health concerns present with long-term use of cannabis and Adderall, impacting memory, concentration, and judgment. 

3. Dependency/ Cannabis addiction

Both cannabis and Adderall have addictive characteristics, mentally and physically; this can intensify their addictive potential when combined. Those at risk of drug dependence should avoid mixing these two substances. 

4. Overdose

When combined, weed and Adderall can produce higher levels of intoxication, making it difficult to monitor how much of each drug you are consuming at a time. Adderall abuse is hard to break as it is very physically addictive. Depending on the potency and quality of your cannabis and your Adderall dose, combining these two compounds can result in an overdose. If anyone is experiencing confusion, nausea, rapid heartbeat, or seizures after consuming weed and Adderall, seek medical help immediately. 

Is mixing weed and alcohol safe?

Cross-fading, or mixing cannabis with alcohol, has become re-popularized as cannabis laws loosen across the US. Cannabis intensifies the effects of alcohol, commonly leading consumers into “blackout” or “spins” by mistake. It slows reaction time and problem-solving skills while also distorting the perception of time, distance, speed, and coordination. 

Beyond the physiological disorientation, cannabis can increase the depressive effects of alcohol while also strengthening the physical dependency of the drugs, resulting in long-term risks and alcohol dependence. It is possible for weed to induce higher rates of substance abuse with alcohol.

Drug interactions with Adderall

Beyond Bud, Adderall can come with some unsafe drug interactions when taking other substances. Those who are at risk for mental health issues are more vulnerable to the negative side effects of Adderall. It is best to avoid combining Adderall with: 

What not to mix with Adderall

• MAO inhibitors

• Caffeine

• Anti-anxiety / anti-depressants 

• Excess sugary foods and beverages

Things to avoid when consuming weed

As an extra precaution, we wanted to share with you the list of the most common substances, aside from Adderall, that may present risks when paired with cannabis. It is possible that weed may exaggerate the effects of these compounds, resulting in dangerous or life threatening effects. Furthermore, cannabis can induce other forms of substance abuse, increasing the odds of developing substance dependency.

Do not mix weed with

• Alcohol

• Anticoagulant & antiplatelet drugs, herbs, and supplements 

• CNS depressants

• Protease inhibitors

• SSRIs

While weed and Adderall may have potential benefits for some individuals, it is important to be mindful of the substances that you are mixing with. As mentioned above, certain combinations can have harmful or even fatal consequences.

Remember to consume responsibly and stay safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What drugs Cannot be taken with Adderall?

Adderall should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including MAOI antidepressants and certain drugs for Parkinson's disease or infections.

Can I smoke weed while on ADHD medication?

It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before combining weed with ADHD medication. Mixing substances can lead to unpredictable effects and may interfere with the efficacy of your medication.

How long does Adderall take to kick in on a full stomach?

Adderall typically takes longer to take effect if taken on a full stomach, usually around 1 to 2 hours.

Can Adderall help with anxiety?

While some individuals might consider using Adderall to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, it's important to note that Adderall is not typically prescribed for anxiety. In fact, it may exacerbate symptoms of anxiety for some people.