Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics. Tics can include eye blinking, shoulder shrugging, throat clearing, or yelling out words or phrases. Tourette’s often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. While there is no cure for Tourette’s, medications can help manage symptoms. One medication that is sometimes used is Adderall. Adderall is a stimulant medication commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But does Adderall also help with Tourette’s syndrome? Here is a closer look at the evidence.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a combination drug containing amphetamine salts. Specifically, it contains a mixture of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Amphetamines are stimulants that increase the activity of the central nervous system. They raise levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This can improve focus, attention, concentration, and energy levels. Adderall was originally approved by the FDA in 1996 for treating ADHD and narcolepsy. It is available as an immediate-release tablet or an extended-release capsule. The effects of immediate-release Adderall last about 4-6 hours. The extended-release form provides symptom relief for up to 12 hours. In addition to FDA-approved uses, Adderall is sometimes prescribed off-label for other conditions like depression or Tourette’s syndrome.
How Adderall May Help Treat Tourette’s
There are several ways Adderall could potentially help manage Tourette’s syndrome:
Increasing Dopamine
Some research suggests that low levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine may play a role in Tourette’s. Dopamine is important for coordinating movement and emotional responses. By increasing dopamine, Adderall could help compensate for low dopamine levels in the brain. This may reduce motor and vocal tics.
Improving ADHD Symptoms
Many people with Tourette’s also have co-occurring ADHD. Up to 60% of those with Tourette’s meet criteria for ADHD. Since Adderall is approved for treating ADHD, it could provide dual benefits for those with both disorders. By improving focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, Adderall may also indirectly improve tic control.
Enhancing Cognitive Control
Research shows that Tourette’s is associated with deficits in cognitive control and inhibitory function. This makes it difficult to suppress unwanted movements and vocalizations. By strengthening areas of the brain involved in cognitive control, Adderall could enhance a person’s ability to resist tic urges.
Evidence That Adderall May Reduce Tics
Several studies provide evidence that Adderall can help reduce tics in people with Tourette’s syndrome:
Small Clinical Trials
A few small clinical trials have tested the effects of Adderall on tics. In one study of 12 children with Tourette’s, low doses of Adderall significantly reduced tic severity compared to placebo. The benefits started at 5 mg per day and increased up to 20 mg per day. In another small trial of 6 teenagers, tic frequency was lower on Adderall compared to placebo. Larger controlled studies are still needed. But these early results are promising.
Anecdotal Reports
There are many anecdotal reports of Adderall lessening tics in people with Tourette’s. In online forums and videos, patients say that Adderall helps dampen their urges to tic. They describe feeling more in control of tic suppression when taking Adderall. However, these reports are informal and not from controlled studies.
Use in Clinical Practice
In clinical practice, some doctors prescribe Adderall off-label to treat tics in Tourette’s patients. Surveys show that Adderall and other stimulants are the most common medications used by psychiatrists to treat Tourette’s after typical antipsychotics. This real-world experience suggests Adderall has benefits for managing tics. But more research is still needed.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
While Adderall may help with tics, it also has some risks and side effects to consider:
Difficulty Sleeping
Adderall can disrupt normal sleep patterns. Since adequate sleep is important for controlling tics, insomnia could undermine benefits. Taking Adderall earlier in the day may help. An extended-release formulation may be better at promoting sleep.
Appetite Loss
Adderall often causes appetite suppression and weight loss. Ensure adequate nutrition by having regular, balanced meals. Avoid excessive weight changes, which can negatively impact health and tic severity.
Worsening Tics
Some people report their tics get worse when taking Adderall. Tics may become more frequent or intense. If tics exacerbate, discuss alternatives with your doctor. Lower doses or short-acting preparations may have less potential for worsening tics.
Anxiety and Irritability
Adderall can increase anxiety, agitation, and emotional sensitivity. This may indirectly increase tic urges and severity. Monitor mood changes and talk to your doctor if anxiety or irritation becomes problematic.
Dependence and Abuse
Adderall has a potential for dependence and abuse. To reduce risks, take the lowest effective dose, follow dosage instructions carefully, and avoid misuse. Extended-release forms have less abuse potential than immediate-release.
Other Side Effects
Other possible Adderall side effects include headache, stomachache, dizziness, fever, numbness, mood changes, increased heart rate and blood pressure. Talk to your doctor if any side effects concern you.
Key Takeaways on Adderall for Tourette’s
Here are some key summary points on whether Adderall helps treat tics in Tourette’s syndrome:
– Adderall is a stimulant medication sometimes used off-label for Tourette’s. It raises dopamine and norepinephrine to improve focus and concentration.
– By increasing dopamine, enhancing cognitive control, and treating ADHD symptoms, Adderall may help dampen tics.
– Small studies show Adderall can reduce tic frequency and severity compared to placebo. Anecdotal reports also suggest benefits.
– Potential risks of Adderall include sleep problems, appetite changes, worsening of tics, anxiety, and dependence. Proper dosing and monitoring can reduce risks.
– More large, rigorous studies are still needed to confirm Adderall’s efficacy and safety for Tourette’s treatment.
– Discuss benefits and risks of Adderall for Tourette’s thoroughly with your doctor. Work together to decide if it is appropriate for your situation.
The Bottom Line
Early evidence suggests Adderall may help lessen tics in some people with Tourette’s syndrome. By increasing dopamine and improving cognitive control, it appears Adderall may dampen urges to tic. However, potential side effects must be considered. More controlled research is still needed to confirm whether the benefits outweigh the risks. Speak to a knowledgeable doctor about your specific symptoms, medical history, and whether a trial of Adderall may be worthwhile. With careful prescribing and monitoring, it may provide tic relief for some with Tourette’s. But it is not a cure and should be one part of a comprehensive treatment approach.