The Public Record of Markiplier's Medications
Markiplier, known for his transparent and open relationship with his audience, has occasionally shared details about his personal life, including health matters. In a 2019 interview detailing a day in his life for The New York Times, Mark Fischbach candidly mentioned his use of Adderall to manage his ADHD. He noted that it helped with his focus but also had an appetite-suppressing side effect. This public statement provided a clear answer at the time regarding his medication for ADHD.
However, as time went on, public forum discussions and fan communities noted Markiplier had switched his medication. In 2022, a Reddit thread and clips from his Distractible podcast discussed his transition from Adderall to a newer ADHD medication called Azstarys. Fans shared that he had mentioned the new prescription after having difficulties with his previous one. This reflects the reality that medication for chronic conditions like ADHD often requires adjustments with a healthcare provider over time to find the most effective and tolerable option.
It is important to note that a public figure's health information is their own to share. While Markiplier has been open, his complete medical history is private. The public record only reflects what he has chosen to disclose to his fans. Any medication, whether for ADHD or other conditions, is part of a personal and private medical journey.
Understanding ADHD Medication: Adderall vs. Azstarys
To understand the context of Markiplier's switch, it's helpful to look at the differences between the two medications he has mentioned. Both Adderall and Azstarys are central nervous system (CNS) stimulants used to treat ADHD. They work by affecting specific neurotransmitters in the brain to improve focus, attention, and impulse control.
| Feature | Adderall | Azstarys |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | CNS Stimulant | CNS Stimulant |
| Active Ingredients | Dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts | Serdexmethylphenidate and dexmethylphenidate |
| Typical Dosage | Often taken multiple times per day (e.g., 2-3 times) | Once-daily capsule |
| Duration of Action | Varies by formulation (immediate vs. extended release) | Long-lasting, providing symptom control throughout the day |
| Mechanism of Action | Increases neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine | Prodrug formulation offers a steady, long-duration effect |
| Appetite Side Effect | Known to cause appetite suppression | Can cause decreased appetite, but may be different due to formulation |
The switch from a medication like Adderall to Azstarys is a common practice for those managing ADHD. Azstarys' once-daily dosage is often appealing for its convenience and long duration of effect, potentially smoothing out the 'peaks and valleys' of a shorter-acting medication.
Beyond ADHD: Markiplier's Other Health Concerns
Markiplier's health disclosures are not limited to his ADHD medication. He has a well-documented history of recurring bowel obstructions, a serious condition requiring multiple hospitalizations. These obstructions are a result of scar tissue from earlier abdominal surgeries.
In late 2020, Markiplier had an overnight hospital stay for intense abdominal pain and subsequently updated his followers from his hospital bed. Most recently, in August 2025, he was hospitalized again, posting a cryptic message to his social media followers stating, “Chew your food boys and goils,” which fans understood as a reference to his ongoing issues.
This history of serious medical events highlights that his health is not solely defined by his ADHD management and that he faces other significant challenges. This transparency about his health is part of what has fostered a close and supportive community of fans.
A YouTuber's Transparency on Health
Markiplier's willingness to speak openly about his health is a powerful example of how public figures can destigmatize medical conditions. He has addressed not only his physical health but also spoken about his struggles with mental health, helping to normalize these conversations for his millions of followers.
His approach encourages his audience to seek help and recognize that it's okay to not be okay, providing a relatable human element to his larger-than-life online persona. His journey underscores several key points about health and public discourse:
- Empathy and Relatability: By discussing his challenges, he creates a connection with fans who might be facing similar struggles.
- Destigmatization of Illness: Openly talking about ADHD and mental health helps to reduce the stigma associated with these conditions.
- The Power of Community: His community consistently shows support during his health crises, turning online concern into real-world encouragement.
- Balancing Privacy: He demonstrates how to share personal information without revealing every detail, maintaining a boundary between public persona and private life.
Conclusion
Regarding the question of what medication does Markiplier take, the public record indicates he initially used Adderall for ADHD and later transitioned to Azstarys. This is a common part of managing a chronic condition. Additionally, his public health story includes significant challenges with recurring bowel obstructions and a commitment to discussing mental health. His openness has provided his fans with both insight and a sense of connection, while also respecting the boundaries of his personal medical information.
For more information on the history of his medical issues, his YouTube channel provides further context in past update videos.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For personal medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. This article is based on publicly available information and should not be considered a comprehensive medical history.
