Bankers Turning to ADHD Drugs to Handle Work Pressure: Understanding Their Side Effects

Young bankers on Wall Street have resorted to stimulants like Adderall to survive gruelling workdays that often stretch beyond 22 hours. The widespread use of prescription drugs such as Adderall and Vyvanse, along with high-caffeine energy drinks, has become common among junior bankers, who are increasingly desensitized to their use as a means of coping with the relentless demands of their jobs.

Mark Moran, a 33-year-old former intern at Credit Suisse, shared his experience of obtaining there were doubts about psychologists from prescription for Adderall with the Wall Street Journal. He said that he procured the medicine despite multiple doubts from a psychologist in his family about whether he had Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Moran described the intense workload of 90-hour weeks and how he soon became dependent on the drug. "They gave me a script, and within months, I was hooked," Moran said.

Adderall Explained

Adderall is a legally permitted drug available on prescription from a licensed medical professional. It has two active ingredients-amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. These are both stimulants that affect chemicals in the brain and boost a person's focus, impulse control and attention.

The pressure on Wall Street workers has come under greater scrutiny, especially following the tragic death of Leo Lukenas III, a 35-year-old Bank of America investment banker who died from acute coronary artery thrombus. It is a blood clot in the coronary artery that can cause a heart attack or sudden death.

How Do ADHD Drugs Work?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a very common neurodevelopment disorder. Children with the disorder may be overly active and have trouble with impulsive behaviours. They may also find it difficult to pay attention, follow instructions and complete tasks. It is important to note that this condition can spread to adulthood. One study suggested ADHD symptoms carried into adulthood in 90% of cases.

Any ADHD medication works on a similar pattern, that is by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, to counter symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsivity. These neurotransmitters include dopamine and norepinephrine. Increasing the amount of these chemicals in the brain, help tackle symptoms of ADHD. They increase attention span, reduce hyperactivity, control impulsive behaviour and manage executive dysfunction.

ADHD medications can come with a range of side effects, that can not only adversely impact your brain but also your heart and other vital organs.

Most common and notable side effects of using ADHD medications:

1. Decreased Appetite: About 80% of people taking stimulant medications experience a decrease in appetite. This can lead to unintended weight loss. Managing this effect may involve taking medication after meals or incorporating protein shakes or healthy snacks into your diet.

2. Weight Loss: The decrease in appetite can sometimes result in significant weight loss. However, this can often be managed by adjusting the timing of the medication or adding additional nutritious foods to your daily intake.

3. Difficulty Sleeping: Stimulant medications can interfere with sleep, making it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep. This may lead to poorer sleep quality overall.

4. Rebound Effect: As the medication wears off, some people experience a period of fatigue, increased activity, or a bad mood. This "rebound effect" can be a short-lived but noticeable side effect when the medication's effects begin to fade.

5. Anxiety and Depression: Some individuals may experience new or increased feelings of anxiety or depression while taking ADHD medications.

6. Tics: While ADHD medications do not cause tics, they can make existing tics—such as repetitive movements or sounds (e.g., eye blinking or throat clearing)—more noticeable.

7. Minor Growth Delay: Some children and adolescents on stimulant medications may experience a minor slowdown in growth, although this typically does not affect their final height.

8. Upset Stomach: Nausea and vomiting are common side effects, particularly when the medication is first started. Taking the medication with food may help reduce stomach upset.

9. Changes in Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Stimulant medications can cause fluctuations in blood pressure and heart rate. However, it is important to inform a healthcare professional about taking this medication.