Does Adderall Cause Erectile Dysfunction? What You Need to Know 

11 min read • Written by: Admin • Updated: 19th, Apr 2025

Does Adderall Cause Erectile Dysfunction? What You Need to Know 

  • 89 Views
  • 19th, Apr 2025

Introduction

If you are someone living with ADHD or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, your healthcare provider may prescribe Adderall, the popular medicine to treat ADHD symptoms effectively. The medicine can also help you stay focused while boosting your performance and tasks.  

While treating ADHD with Adderall, some users often wonder – ‘does Adderall cause erectile dysfunction?’. Moreover, people also point out the other potential side effects of Adderall including the lower sexual desires.  

Of course, it’s frustrating to deal with erectile dysfunction or ED as a side effect of Adderall. But, one doesn’t need to be disappointed.  

The problem is treatment with the right approach.  

In this blog, we’re going to discuss Adderall and erectile dysfunction, the potential side effects of Adderall, and how to treat ED caused by Adderall while treating your ADHD symptoms. 

Let’s dig deeper – 

adderall and erectile dysfunction connection

Understanding Adderall and Its Effects on the Body

What is Adderall?

Adderall is a brand-name prescription medicine, used for the first-line treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADAH) for children and adults. This FDA-approved medication is also prescribed to treat narcolepsy, a sleep disorder. 

What does Adderall do?

Adderall contains the active ingredients amphetamine and dextroamphetamine that stimulate the central nervous system, enhancing concentration and performance. Both active ingredients are neurotransmitters whose increased activity results in more focused attention and controlled behavior. People often call Adderall ‘a study drug’ as by taking this medication, someone feels more awake and alert. Moreover, the drug increases muscle strength, improves our reaction time and produces a euphoric mood. 

What are the side effects of Adderall?

 Adderall is usually a safe, well-tolerated drug that is effective for both children and adults. However, like all medications, it also comes with some side effects. The most common side-effects of Adderall include – 

  • Loss of appetite 
  • Difficulty in falling asleep or insomnia 
  • Restlessness 
  • Dry mouth 
  • Headache 
  • Weight loss 
  • Nausea 
  • Nervousness 
  • Increased heart rates 
  • High blood pressure 

Misuse of Adderall could have negative impacts on health as it has been noticed that Adderall long-term effects may lead to serious issues, including prescription stimulant addiction. If someone is worried about the side effects of Adderall, it is advisable to talk to a healthcare professional about them. 

Adderall and Erectile Dysfunction: The Connection

Apart from mild side effects, Adderall may affect sexual health and performance. 

So, does Adderall cause erectile dysfunction or ED? Although there is not much evidence that can confirm this fact, many users admit to experiencing ED after taking this medication. 

Erectile dysfunction is a condition when a man is unable to get or hold an erection required for sex. It has been found through clinical testing on Adderall that less than 5% of men reported experiencing ED after taking Adderall. But one cannot confirm this side effect as everyone’s body responds differently to different medicines. For most users, Adderall is safe to take for treating ADHD and depression. 

So, here are some connections between Adderall and erectile dysfunction – 

  • Taking Adderall may cause the inability to get an erection at any time because the medicine increases heart rates and blood pressure, it can resist the amount of blood reaching the penis, hindering getting or maintaining an erection. 
  • Adderall is also suspected of suppressing sexual desire among certain males. Since the drug can influence the brain’s dopamine control, it can decrease the feeling of pleasure linked to sexual activities.  
  • One of the rare side effects of Adderall in males is penile shrinkage due to prolonged restrictions of blood flow through the penis. 
  • Taking Adderall in the long term can lead to mental exhaustion, which reduces the urge to indulge in sexual activities. 

Adderall Long-Term Effects on Sexual Health

Though not very common, a few individuals may have impacts on their sexual health due to the long-term effects of Adderall. Some of these side effects include – 

1. Decreased Sexual Desires

Does Adderall lower sex drive? Probably yes for some people. Due to the chronic use of Adderall for several months or years, the dopamine sensitivity among some users may be reduced, which can lead to lower sexual desire. 

2. Erectile Dysfunction

Another common side effect of Adderall’s long-term use is erectile dysfunction or difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection during sexual intercourse. For people experiencing erectile dysfunction Adderall with higher or sustained doses should be avoided. 

3. Delayed Orgasm

After using Adderall for a long term, a few men and women may have trouble reaching climax or orgasm during sex. 

4. Performance Anxiety

While Adderall may help reduce social anxiety, it may cause heightened anxiety, especially related to sexual performance after taking it for an extended period. 

5. Hormonal Disruption

Does Adderall increase testosterone?’ – some people often raise this question. The answer is No, Adderall doesn’t increase testosterone. Instead, long-term use of this medicine may disrupt the balance of some hormones, including testosterone and cortisol, and more research is required to confirm this side effect. 

Duration and Reversibility of Adderall-Related ED

Since there is a connection between Adderall and ED, the impact may vary from person to person. Men who experience ED side effects after taking Adderall have often found that their body becomes accustomed to Adderall after a certain time. 

So, how long does ED from Adderall last for those whose body doesn’t become accustomed?  

Usually, the side effects may last for a few weeks depending on the body of the users. While some individuals may experience ED for a shorter span, others may experience Adderall-related ED for the duration they take the medicine. However, there are rare cases where ED caused by Adderall could be permanent. 

Fortunately, the erectile dysfunction caused by Adderall is reversible and can be treated. Some easy ways to treat ED from Adderall are – 

  • Not consuming Adderall before having sex 
  • Adjusting the dosage of Adderall on days while having sex 
  • Giving time for symptoms to subdue 

The best way to avoid the long-term effects of Adderall, individuals should ask their healthcare providers if they need to stop using the medication or look for some alternative form of ADHD treatment.  

Medications and Alternatives for Adderall-Induced ED

While the side effects of Adderall erectile dysfunction occur, it is mostly treatable. When an individual starts experiencing ED after using Adderall, it would be best to consult a healthcare professional. 

Usually, medical professionals ask about the symptoms and other problems related to ED. Some people may feel uncomfortable talking to their regular healthcare professional about ED. They can go for online consultation from a licensed medical professional. 

While healthcare providers may ask to avoid Adderall for ED, they also suggest some alternative medications to manage ADHD symptoms.  

Besides, they also recommend some prescribed medications to treat ED and sexual performance.  

Here are some popular medications often prescribed for ED treatment – 

Sildenafil

Sildenafil belongs to the class of medication called phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors. It’s the active ingredient of Viagra that can treat erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow through the penis during sex.  

Tadalafil

Tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis, a long-acting prescribed medicine for ED. It also belongs to a group of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.​ Available in different doses, the effect of the medicine can remain in the blood for up to 36 hours per dose. 

Vardenafil

Sold under the brand name Levitra, Vardenafil is another prescription medicine for ED treatment that remains effective for 4 to 5 hours. 

Before taking these ED medications, talk to your healthcare providers to know about the dosage and when to take them.  

If you want to know more about treating erectile dysfunction Adderall’s side effects or the above ED medications, their dosage, potential side effects and more, you can check Your Pill Buddy’s website. You can also opt for our free online consultation session with an experienced healthcare provider. 

Viagra and Adderall

In some cases, Viagra and Adderall are often taken together by individuals experiencing ADHD and erectile dysfunction. While Adderall is a stimulant potentially constricting blood vessels, Viagra can increase blood flow to the penis. So, both these drugs work differently. 

While some individuals may wonder if they should Take Viagra and Adderall together, it is advisable to avoid mixing these drugs without careful supervision by a healthcare provider. While there are no confirmed interactions reported between Viagra and Adderall, there is a concern about their potential impact on heart health. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Does Adderall Lower Sex Drive?

Yes, due to the long-term use of Adderall, some may experience lower sex drive or libido, although it’s not a confirmed side effect. The side effects of this medicine may vary from person to person. Since the drug may influence the brain’s dopamine system, it may potentially reduce the desire related to sexual activity. 

2. Can Adderall Improve Sexual Performance?

While some individuals often wonder how to get erect on Adderall, it is important to remember that the effects may significantly vary. Some users typically report erectile dysfunction and reduced sexual desire as the potential side effects of Adderall.  

Moreover, the effects of Adderall on sexual activity can also vary on different factors, including dosage, frequency of use and pre-existing health conditions. 

3. How Long Does Erectile Dysfunction from Adderall Last?

People experiencing ED due to the side effects of Adderall often wonder – ‘how long does ED from Adderall last?’ This side effect caused by Adderall may significantly vary in duration. While some may experience it for a few days, for others it may last for several weeks, depending on how their body reacts to the drug.  

If the problem continues longer than a few weeks or causes troubles, it’s important to discuss it with a healthcare professional. 

4. How to Manage Erectile Dysfunction Caused by Adderall?

Dealing with erectile dysfunction due to the side effects of Adderall in males is frustrating. Thankfully, it is treatable as you have multiple options to manage ED caused by Adderall. Here are some steps to follow :

  • Physician’s consultation: Talk to your physician or other licensed healthcare professional who may recommend adjusting the dosage, its timing or alternative medication. 
  • Adjusting the medicine dosage: Your healthcare provider may suggest an adjustment of the dosage of Adderall to reduce or alleviate its side effects. 
  • Switching to other prescribed medications: If you are taking Adderall to manage your ADHD problems, you may switch to alternative medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider.  
  • Taking ED medications: As one experiences ED due to long-term effects from Adderall, they can go for ED medications such as Viagra, Sildenafil, Tadalafil and Vardenafil to treat erectile dysfunction and restore normal sexual activity. 
  • Leading a healthier life: Making some necessary changes in lifestyle including quitting smoking, excessive drinking, preventing recreational drugs, reducing overweight and following an active lifestyle can often be helpful to manage erectile dysfunction. 

5. Does Adderall restrict blood flow?

Yes, Adderall can restrict blood flow. As a stimulant, it narrows the blood vessels and decreases blood flow leading to increased blood pressure and heart rates. It also constricts blood flow to the penile tissue.  

For those who also wonder “Does Adderall cause erectile dysfunction”, the answer is yes. The restriction on the blood flow through the penis can also contribute to difficulties in getting or holding an erection. 

Adderall and Erectile Dysfunction: Key Takeaways

Although experiencing erectile dysfunction as a side effect of Adderall is frustrating, it is treatable with the right approach. You can regain control of your sexual life after consulting with your healthcare provider, modifying your lifestyle, and adjusting medication dosage.  

Above all, you can explore other treatment options such as taking ED medications such as Viagra, Sildenafil, Tadalafil and Vardenafil as prescribed by a licensed healthcare professional. 

If you notice that long-term use of Adderall causes erectile dysfunction, don’t hesitate to treat it with the right medication. If you’re hesitating to visit a physician in person, you can opt for Your Bill Buddy’s online free consultation and order your ED medicine on this platform safely and discreetly. 

Whether you’re experiencing temporary or long-term ED issues, feel free to seek help – either from your physician or our healthcare provider and resolve it with the right ED treatment and medications.  

author avatar
Dr. Peter Stahl
Specializes in sexual dysfunction and has developed a comprehensive program for men with ED, combining oral and injection therapies.