From the Guidelines
Adderall is not recommended for improving erections and may actually worsen erectile function as a side effect. Adderall is a stimulant medication containing amphetamine salts primarily prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. The American College of Physicians recommends initiating therapy with a PDE-5 inhibitor, such as sildenafil, tadalafil, or vardenafil, in men who seek treatment for erectile dysfunction and do not have a contraindication to PDE-5 inhibitor use 1. These medications have been shown to demonstrate statistically significant and clinically relevant improvements in sexual intercourse and erectile function in patients with ED. In contrast, stimulants like Adderall can cause vasoconstriction, which may reduce blood flow to the penis and potentially impair erections. Additionally, Adderall can cause anxiety and increased heart rate, which may interfere with sexual performance.
Some key points to consider when treating erectile dysfunction include:
- The choice of a specific PDE-5 inhibitor should be based on individual preferences, including ease of use, cost of medication, and adverse effects profile 1
- Hormonal testing and treatment may not be necessary for all patients with erectile dysfunction, as the evidence regarding their utility is inconclusive 1
- FDA-approved medications like sildenafil, tadalafil, or vardenafil are more appropriate treatments for erectile dysfunction, as they specifically target the mechanisms involved in achieving and maintaining erections by enhancing blood flow to the penis.
It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of erectile difficulties and recommend appropriate treatment options rather than misusing prescription medications like Adderall.
From the FDA Drug Label
ADVERSE REACTIONS ... Endocrine: Impotence, changes in libido. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Adderall and Erections
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest that Adderall can improve erections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies primarily focus on the use of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil, for the treatment of erectile dysfunction 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- PDE5 inhibitors are considered first-line therapy for most men with erectile dysfunction who do not have a specific contraindication to their use 2.
- Adderall is not mentioned in any of the provided studies as a treatment for erectile dysfunction.
Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction
- PDE5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil, are effective and well-tolerated therapies for the treatment of men with erectile dysfunction 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Other treatment options, such as intracavernosal injection therapy with alprostadil and intraurethral alprostadil, are also available for the treatment of erectile dysfunction 2.
- The choice of treatment for erectile dysfunction should be individualized and based on the patient's specific needs and medical history 3, 5.