Treating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS): Central Nervous System Stimulants - Adderall

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Adderall is a ‘pyschostimulant’ amphetamine. Introduced in 1996 Adderal is primarily used to treat attention deficit disorder and narcolepsy and treatment resistant depression but has also been used off-label for weight loss. Adderall increases energy levels and concentration. It is believed to increase dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine levels.

Adderall May Work in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Because it increases energy levels and concentration. It may increase the levels of some key nervous system agents (neurotransmitters) that may be low in ME/CFS.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Physicians Report. Dr. Bateman uses both Ritalin and Adderall but prefers Adderall. She reports Adderall also helps with pain and has been a drug that has enabled some patients return to work. On the other hand others can’t stand it. She reports that acute onset ME/CFS patients with flu-like symptoms don’t seem to do as well on Adderall.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Patients Report. Click here to read ME/CFS patients reports of their experiences with Adderall.

Dose Adderall is available in single or extended release forms. Dr. Bateman recommends 5-30 mg. 2-3x’s a day of Adderall.

Side Effects include dry mouth, insomnia, bad breath, weight loss, tolerance and addiction. Adderall is a Schedule II drug that requires frequent doctor visits because of its potential for addiction if misused. Dr. Bateman states she has never had a problem with this.




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This summary was put together by a layman with ME/CFS and is not intended to provide complete information on the side effects or any other aspects of this drug. It is for informational purposes only.

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Lucinda Bateman, MD., 2006. “Tips and Travails of Treatment”, An abridged version of a seminar transcript of a Nov. Lecture in Auckland, New Zealand, by Pat Fero and David Thompson.