What to Know About Mixing Adderall and Alcohol in 2025

Adderall (amphetamine salts) is a stimulant, and alcohol is a depressant; together, they create a physiological tug-of-war that can confuse the body’s natural feedback mechanisms.

Biology Breakdown:

• Adderall increases dopamine and norepinephrine, boosting alertness and heart rate.

• Alcohol decreases CNS activity, creating drowsiness and poor coordination.

• When combined, Adderall can mask alcohol's effects, leading to alcohol poisoning while the user feels alert.

  
  

Common Myths:

• “It balances out the effects.” → The body is not a scale; it's a complex feedback system.

• “Everyone does this in college.” → That doesn’t make it safe; ER visits spike with this combo.

  
  

Risk vs. Reward:

• Risk: Liver strain, high blood pressure, alcohol overdose.

• Reward: Enhanced partying, which comes at a serious cost.

  
  

Peer-Reviewed Studies:

SAMHSA (2019). Substance Use and Co-Occurring Mental Disorders

Marczinski, C. A., et al. (2011). Mixing energy drinks with alcohol: Impact on performance and perceived intoxication. Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research

 Adderall hides alcohol’s warning signs. It’s not just unsafe, it’s a setup for self-harm.

Reach out to our support network if you or a loved one struggles with Adderall or alcohol misuse. You’re not alone.

We are here for you.