From the Guidelines
Adderall is not recommended as a first-line treatment for binge eating disorder due to its potential for dependence, cardiovascular effects, insomnia, and anxiety, and instead, FDA-approved medications such as Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) should be considered. Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) is a stimulant medication primarily prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy, typically starting at 5-10mg once or twice daily, with dosages potentially increasing to 20-30mg daily based on individual response. While not FDA-approved for eating disorders, some patients report decreased food cravings and reduced binge eating episodes while taking it. This occurs because amphetamines increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which suppresses appetite and can reduce impulsive eating behaviors 1. However, using Adderall specifically for binge eating is considered off-label and carries significant risks. The American Psychiatric Association recommends that patients with binge-eating disorder be treated with eating disorder-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy, in either individual or group formats, and suggests that adults with binge-eating disorder who prefer medication or have not responded to psychotherapy alone be treated with either an antidepressant medication or lisdexamfetamine 1.
Some key points to consider when treating binge eating disorder include:
- The importance of comprehensive treatment approaches, including therapy, nutritional counseling, and appropriate medication options
- The potential risks and benefits of using stimulant medications, such as Adderall, for off-label purposes
- The availability of FDA-approved medications, such as Vyvanse, which have a similar mechanism but are specifically approved for binge eating disorder
- The need for individualized treatment plans, taking into account the patient's unique needs and circumstances
It's also important to note that the evidence for the use of Adderall in binge eating disorder is limited, and more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks 1. In general, the treatment of binge eating disorder should be guided by the most recent and highest-quality evidence, and patients should be encouraged to work with healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and circumstances.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Relationship between Adderall and Binge Eating Disorder
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that establishes a relationship between Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) and binge eating disorder.
- However, the studies suggest that medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), such as lisdexamfetamine, may be effective in treating binge eating disorder (BED) due to the overlap between the two conditions 2, 3, 4.
- Lisdexamfetamine is the only approved medication for the treatment of BED, and it has been shown to reduce binge eating behaviors and promote weight loss 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The studies also suggest that drugs that potentiate central noradrenergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission, such as those used to treat ADHD, may be effective in treating BED 4.
- Adderall, which is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, is used to treat ADHD, but its effectiveness in treating BED is not established in the provided studies.
- Further research is needed to determine the potential relationship between Adderall and binge eating disorder, as well as the effectiveness of Adderall in treating BED 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.