Mayo Clin Proc

Single dose of Adderall triggers striking BP, heart rate changes in healthy young adults

March 20, 2026

In a randomized, double‑blind, placebo‑controlled crossover trial published, 29 healthy, Adderall‑naïve young adults (mean age, 27 years) received a single 25‑mg dose of amphetamine/dextroamphetamine salts. Compared with placebo, Adderall increased systolic BP by ~10 mm Hg (from 116 to 126 mm Hg; P<0.001) and raised diastolic and mean arterial pressure by 6 to 7 mm Hg, with no significant changes seen under placebo conditions. Heart rate increased by an average of 10 beats per minute, and plasma norepinephrine levels rose from 215 to 301 pg/mL (P=0.027), indicating heightened sympathetic activation. Notably, the orthostatic heart rate response doubled after Adderall, increasing from 19 bpm at baseline to 38 bpm upon standing. While changes generally remained within ranges considered acceptable for healthy adults, interindividual variability was observed, underscoring that even a single first dose can produce measurable cardiovascular stress.

Clinical takeaway: Before initiating Adderall—especially in stimulant‑naïve patients—document baseline blood pressure and heart rate, counsel patients about expected short‑term increases, and consider closer monitoring or alternative therapy in those with borderline hypertension or tachycardia.

Source:

Somers KR, et al. (2026, March 2). Mayo Clin Proc. Acute Cardiovascular Responses to Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine Salts (Adderall) in Adderall-Naïve Young Adults: A Randomized Clinical Trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41770187/