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Does Intake Of Adderall For ADHD Cause Memory Loss Issues?

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Posted on Sat, 13 Aug 2016
Question: Hello there,

Just looking for some advice or input at this point. I'm 21 years old, and currently prescribed two prescriptions of adderall for ADHD. A 30 mg extended release, and a 10 mg instant release which I take later in the day. The medication really doesn't work like it used too, or I guess I don't "feel" it like it was at the beginning but that's probably just because I've been on it for about 2-3 years.

What I'm wondering is more about my brain though. Can this medication cause memory loss, or in some way take away my short term memory?? I feel as though my brain just has a chemical in it that's just too much and just makes my brain feel like mush or empty at times. I talk to people and litterily can not pay attention through a whole conversation at times, and just am short with my answers. I'm not able to think extensively about something. I'm not to really remember any song lyrics even after listening numerous times. I have trouble talking to people including my family because it's hard to have a conversation since i don't have any memory or know anything about sports or certain subjects. My girlfriend will tell my her work schedule and its in one ear and out the other, and not because I don't care. When people talk to me I more or less just nod or do short answers which show I'm listening or acknowledging, and then have a hard time to respond since I can't put it all into a response.

It was never like this really when growing up. I remember I kind of hand trouble with the songs portion and some issues, but nothing like this. I truly feel like it's gone, since it's the same the next day always. I'm just scared about what I should say to my doctor or what maybe I should do, or if this is serious and I should seek help? I can't talk about this with anyone since no one I know has this affecting them at all, and they just wouldn't understand the extend to which this goes. Just wanting to get some input please and thank you.
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Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.

It sounds like Adderall, a stimulant medication, is indeed affecting your memory. This is certainly possible, and a sign you should get off this medication. After a few months being off of it you can reassess your mental state, and at that time consider a different medication if any. But right now I would ask your doctor about tapering off of it.

Dr. Sheppe

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Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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Answered by
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Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2014

Answered : 2236 Questions

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Does Intake Of Adderall For ADHD Cause Memory Loss Issues?

Brief Answer: Consultation Detailed Answer: Hello, and thanks for your question. It sounds like Adderall, a stimulant medication, is indeed affecting your memory. This is certainly possible, and a sign you should get off this medication. After a few months being off of it you can reassess your mental state, and at that time consider a different medication if any. But right now I would ask your doctor about tapering off of it. Dr. Sheppe tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers