Trouble Falling Asleep on Adderall or Concerta

Question: I have trouble falling asleep when I take Adderall or Concerta. What can I do about it?
Answer: In evaluating any presumed side effect of medication it is important to ask how the side effect (e.g. insomnia) relates to the last dose of medication. Adderall tablets reach peak blood level in 3 hours. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) tablets peak in 1 1/2 hours. Adderall XR and Concerta peak in 6 hours. After the blood level peaks, it starts down. If the last dose of Adderall XR or Concerta is at 4:00 pm and the sleep problem is at 10:00 pm, it’s probably due to peak blood (i.e. a direct side effect). But if the last dose of medication is at noon and the sleep problem is at 11:00 pm, it’s more likely rebound. In the first case the medication needs to be taken earlier. In the second case it could be taken earlier or later.
Some people need to be fairly high functioning well into the evening but also need to get to bed by 10:00 or 11:00 to get adequate sleep. Fortunately we have safe, effective sleep medications that provide normal sleep and wear off by morning (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata).

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