When it comes to treating a medical condition, few medications are as effective as the combination of Adderall and Viagra. This medication is a ‘polypill,’ which combines two medications that act on the body in different ways to enhance their effect.
While both medications are used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), their mechanisms of action are quite different. ADHD is a neuropsychiatric condition that affects between 3 and 12% of children and adults. It is characterized by hyperactivity, impulsivity, and an inability to focus. Adderall is a stimulant that acts directly on the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain associated with executive function and attention. It is derived from the bark of the tropical plant, Adderallum palmetto. This medication has been shown to improve the symptoms of ADHD in both children and adults.
Viagra is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence) and is well known for its ability to increase the blood flow to the penis, thus enhancing the male experience during sex. It was originally marketed as a remedy for angina pectoris and hypertension (high blood pressure), but it also has beneficial effects for those with ADHD. Like Adderall, Viagra enhances cognitive function and changes behavior. A 2018 review published in the European Journal of Pharmacology noted that “[Viagra’s] positive impact on executive functions as well as working memory has been well demonstrated in children and adults with ADHD.”
The combination of these two medications, which are both FDA approved, is a ‘winning formula’ that has proven incredibly successful in treating those with ADHD. Clinical trials have shown that ADHD participants who took a combination of these two medications had better attention and concentration. Moreover, those who participated in the clinical trials had fewer behavioral problems, such as hyperactivity and impulsivity. Additionally, parents and caregivers reported fewer tantrums and behavior problems in the participants taking a combination of these two medications compared to those who took one of the medications alone.
How Do They Work Together?
When both medications are administered orally, they are both readily available for absorption into the body. Adderall is a substrate for P-glycoprotein (P-gp), which prevents it from being effectively removed by the liver. P-gp is responsible for controlling the absorption and excretion of many drugs, including Viagra. This means that when Adderall is taken along with Viagra, the effects of each medication are enhanced by the other one. Moreover, as both are stimulants, they can increase the heart rate and energy levels of those with ADHD, especially at first. However, long-term use of this combination may cause reduced benefits and even adverse events.
Both medications can cause serious side effects, including cardiovascular problems and seizures. Children and adults with heart problems, liver problems, or a history of seizures should not take this combination of medications and should instead consult their doctors for other options.
Health Benefits And Dosage
The benefits of Adderall and Viagra taken together are numerous and include the following:
- significantly improved cognitive function and attention for those with ADHD
- reduced impulsivity and hyperactivity for those with ADHD
- increased ability to focus and concentrate for those with ADD
- enhanced the effects of other medications for those with ADHD
- reduced aggression for those with ADHD
- reduced anxiety for those with ADHD
- reduced depression for those with ADHD
- increased strength and endurance in those with ADHD
- treatment for those with ADHD who are resistant to treatment with either medication alone
- reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
- treatment for those with ADHD who are resistant to treatment with either medication alone
The usual recommended adult dose of Adderall is 10 to 30 mg, taken once or twice a day. Viagra should be administered at a dose of 50 to 100 mg, taken once or twice a day. The usual recommended doses for children and adolescents are similar to those given in adults. However, they may need to be titrated based on individual response. The medications must be taken in conjunction with a meal and at least 8 hours apart from each other.
When To Avoid This Medication.
There are several contraindications and warnings that must be considered when using this combination of medications. The most important is that this combination of medications is not recommended in patients with severe liver disease. Moreover, those with a history of kidney or heart failure should not take this combination of medications as they may suffer from an increased risk of kidney damage or heart failure, respectively.
Additionally, there should be a baseline electrocardiogram (EKG) performed before starting treatment with this medication combination. This is especially important in those with a history of cardiac arrhythmias. As both medications can cause rapid changes in blood pressure, those with hypertension should consult their doctors before taking this medication combination. Those who are taking blood thinners or have a known allergy to sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra) should not take this combination as they may suffer from increased bleeding tendencies or an adverse reaction, respectively.
Where Can I Buy This Medication?
This combination of medications is available from most pharmacies, as long as your doctor prescribes them and you fill the order properly. It is not available over the counter and must be administered by a physician. Moreover, as it is a prescription medication, make sure you carry a copy of the prescription with you at all times or risk being denied access to the medications by your doctor. The cost of this combination of medications is covered by most insurance companies, as long as you are prescribed it for a legitimate reason.