Managing the Stimulant Crash: Practical Strategies
You know the feeling: your medication has been working well all morning, but sometime in the afternoon, everything shifts. Energy drops, irritability spikes, and focus disappears. This is the stimulant crash, and while common, it does not have to derail your day.
What Causes the Crash?
The crash happens when stimulant medication leaves your system. As dopamine and norepinephrine levels drop back down, you may temporarily feel worse than your baseline - this is sometimes called "rebound."
Common Crash Symptoms
- Sudden fatigue
- Irritability or moodiness
- Brain fog
- Increased hunger
- Difficulty with emotional regulation
- Return of ADHD symptoms
Factors That Make It Worse
- Skipping meals: Low blood sugar amplifies crash symptoms significantly
- Dehydration: Stimulants can suppress thirst cues, leading to dehydration
- Poor sleep: Starting the day sleep-deprived sets you up for a harder crash
- High stress: Cortisol and stimulant withdrawal compound each other
Practical Strategies
- 1
Eat protein throughout the day
Protein provides amino acids needed for dopamine production. Eat before the crash hits.
- 2
Stay hydrated
Set reminders to drink water throughout the day since thirst cues may be suppressed.
- 3
Plan low-demand activities for crash time
If you know when your crash typically hits, schedule easier tasks for that window.
- 4
Light movement helps
A short walk during crash time can help regulate energy and mood naturally.
- 5
Consider medication adjustments
Talk to your prescriber about XR formulations, booster doses, or different medications.
Medication Options to Discuss
Extended Release Options
- Vyvanse (smoother onset/offset)
- Concerta (osmotic release)
- Adderall XR (two-phase release)
- Mydayis (three-phase release)
Booster Strategies
- Small IR dose in afternoon
- Lower total dose, spread out
- Combining XR morning + IR afternoon
- Non-stimulant add-on (e.g., guanfacine)
Track Your Medication Response
Our medication check assessment helps you identify patterns and have better conversations with your prescriber.
Take Free AssessmentWhen to Talk to Your Doctor
- The crash significantly impacts your daily functioning
- You experience severe mood changes during the crash
- Lifestyle strategies are not providing enough relief
- You are considering adjusting your medication timing or dose
Remember, some degree of transition as medication wears off is normal, but severe crashes that disrupt your life are worth addressing with your healthcare provider.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation.