Is taking Propranolol and Adderall together considered safe?

Question

Hi doctor,

Is it safe to take both Adderall and Propranolol? I have ADHD and I am taking Adderall.

I have been asked to speak about my career, but I get paralyzed by stage fear every time I speak in front of a crowd. A psychiatrist prescribed me Propranolol, but this does not seem like a safe combination. It is kind of like how beta blockers are avoided when people have used cocaine. I spent a year after college as a research assistant in an emergency department. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

We are here to help you.

The fear and uncomfortable feeling of standing and speaking in front of a crowd is due to anxiety, which can be an independent entity or can be associated with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) itself. Propranolol is going to reduce anxiety, but yes it should be avoided if you have been using cocaine or have any respiratory issues associated.

In my opinion, the best drug for you would be SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) like Paroxetine, which will not interact with Adderall (Amphetamine) or even with your cocaine issue. To help you better provide me with more details.

1. Since when are you facing this issue?

2. How often do you use cocaine?

3. How is your sleep?

4. Do you feel problems while doing other work also or just in front of people? Do you feel palpitations during that time?

5. Are you getting any effect with Propranolol?

Revert with these details for better help.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, both drugs can be taken together. They do not have any significant interaction.

Propranolol should be avoided in people with lung or heart disease, as you must have seen during your emergency posting. The people who take cocaine are at high risk of developing anginal pains and that can get aggravated by the use of Propranolol.

As far as your particular question is concerned, yes, you can take both of them together if you do not have any pre-existing asthma or lung disease.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.