Can You Take Propranolol And Adderall Together?

In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether propranolol interacts with Adderall (amphetamine salts).

Question

I am prescribed propranolol 10mg. My doctor has also prescribed Adderall 10mg. Can these medications be taken together?

Asked by Chris2014 On Sep 29, 2022

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Sep 29, 2022
Last updated Mar 28, 2024

Key points

  • Amphetamines, like Adderall, can reduce the effects of propranolol.

Answer

Thanks for reaching out to us! Propranolol and Adderall don't necessarily interact with one another, but they do have some conflicting effects.

Propranolol is a beta-blocker and is used for a variety of indications, including high blood pressure and anxiety. Adderall works on a number of different receptors in the body and can increase blood pressure, increase heart rate, and overall, antagonize the effects of propranolol. This could potentially lead to some side effects, such as:

  • High blood pressure
  • increased or decreased heart rate
  • Heart block (rare)

Propranolol and Adderall should be used in combination cautiously, under the direct supervision of a health care provider. There are certainly cases where both are used together and represent the best therapy for someone, but again, it should be under the direction of your doctor.

What Is Propranolol?

Propranolol is a beta blocker that is used most commonly for hypertension, migraine prophylaxis, and atrial fibrillation. It can also help with symptoms of anxiety. Propranolol should be given with meals and at bedtime when taking the immediate-release formulation. The extended-release formulation should be taken at bedtime. Common side effects associated with taking propranolol include but are not limited to:

  • Bradycardia
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Upset stomach
  • Hypotension
  • Palpitations

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is a combination stimulant that is most commonly used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Both regular-release tablets, as well as extended-release capsules, should be given in the morning immediately after waking.

If additional doses of regular release tablets are to be taken during the day, they should be given at least 6 hours before bedtime to avoid insomnia. Common side effects associated with taking Adderall include but are not limited to:

  • Headache
  • Insomnia
  • Abdominal pain
  • Anxiety
  • Agitation
  • Irritability
  • Nausea

Final Words

If Adderall and propranolol are used together, it is important to monitor your response to the medications.

Thanks for reaching out to us! Please do so anytime!

References

  • Amphetamine Propranolol, PubChem
  • Amphetamine Monograph, PubChem
  • An open-label study of the tolerability of mixed amphetamine salts in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and treated primary essential hypertension, PubMed

About the Pharmacist

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Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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