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Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine + Rasagiline

STOP — Contraindicated

FDA contraindication. Risk of hypertensive crisis, hyperthermia, seizures. Do not co-administer.

Evidence level: STRONG

What this interaction means

Adderall combined with rasagiline (a Parkinson drug that inhibits MAO) can cause a hypertensive crisis — a sudden, dangerous spike in blood pressure. Both drugs increase brain chemicals in ways that become dangerous together.

How it works (mechanism)

Amphetamines increase monoamine release. Rasagiline (MAO-B inhibitor) prevents monoamine breakdown. Combined effect can cause hypertensive crisis and hyperthermia. FDA labels contraindicate this.

Practical advice

Do not take stimulant medications with MAO inhibitors. If you have both ADHD and Parkinson disease, your doctors must coordinate to find safe alternatives.

Timing

Take Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine in the morning (or early afternoon for IR boosters) to avoid insomnia. Rasagiline follows its prescribed schedule. Acidic foods/drinks can reduce stimulant absorption — take on an empty stomach or with a non-acidic snack.

Risk factors

Higher risk for: those with cardiovascular conditions, hypertension, anxiety disorders, history of seizures, concurrent caffeine or sympathomimetic use, elderly, or those with hyperthyroidism.

Symptoms to watch for

Severe headache, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, neck stiffness, nausea, sweating, dilated pupils, very high blood pressure

What to tell your doctor

Coordinate between neurologist and psychiatrist. Discuss non-stimulant ADHD options (atomoxetine may also be problematic — it is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor). Consider behavioral interventions.

Safer alternatives

Stimulant combinations can increase cardiovascular strain. Reduce caffeine intake and avoid other stimulating supplements. Discuss with your prescriber: non-stimulant ADHD options (atomoxetine, guanfacine) or L-theanine for focus without the sympathomimetic load.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine and Rasagiline together?

Adderall combined with rasagiline (a Parkinson drug that inhibits MAO) can cause a hypertensive crisis — a sudden, dangerous spike in blood pressure. Both drugs increase brain chemicals in ways that become dangerous together.

When should I take Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine vs Rasagiline?

Take Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine in the morning (or early afternoon for IR boosters) to avoid insomnia. Rasagiline follows its prescribed schedule. Acidic foods/drinks can reduce stimulant absorption — take on an empty stomach or with a non-acidic snack.

What symptoms should I watch for if I combine Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine and Rasagiline?

Severe headache, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, neck stiffness, nausea, sweating, dilated pupils, very high blood pressure

Are there safer alternatives to combining Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine with Rasagiline?

Stimulant combinations can increase cardiovascular strain. Reduce caffeine intake and avoid other stimulating supplements. Discuss with your prescriber: non-stimulant ADHD options (atomoxetine, guanfacine) or L-theanine for focus without the sympathomimetic load.

What should I tell my doctor about taking Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine and Rasagiline?

Coordinate between neurologist and psychiatrist. Discuss non-stimulant ADHD options (atomoxetine may also be problematic — it is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor). Consider behavioral interventions.

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