I want to share something important that I recently learned about ADHD medications. With cold and flu season upon us, this is timely information that you may need to know!
Did you know that Vitamin C can hinder the absorption of ADHD medications and make them less effective?
I didn’t know that either. I really wish I had!
“Vitamin C may potentially interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of Vyvanse.”
“Taking Adderall with vitamin C can reduce the absorption of Adderall into your body. This could make Adderall less effective than usual. You should take vitamin C and Adderall at least 1 hour apart.”
I have one child with AuDHD and ARFID (an eating disorder often associated with Autism). Taking pills is nearly an impossible task for him. Since even chewables are challenge, his pediatrician recommended that I crush up his meds and put them in a glass of juice.
He always takes his medication in the morning with breakfast.
Guess what kind of juice I was putting his medication into?
Yup. Orange juice.
This poor interaction of ADHD medication and vitamin C also applies to supplements. I, for one, often add a vitamin C tablet to my routine during cold and flu season. I take it in the morning with my other vitamins and medications. …at the exact same time as my own ADHD medication.
Whoops. Now I know better. And now you know better to!
The general consensus seems to be that ADHD medication and vitamin C (whether in supplement form, or in juice or food form) should be kept apart by one hour. So, if you take a vitamin C supplement this time of year, consider taking it with your lunch or coffee break instead of breakfast. And if you’re a fan of OJ or half a grapefruit every morning, you may want to move those to a snack time as well.
Ashley Lilley 