What is Adderall?
Adderall is a combination drug containing two active ingredients:
- Amphetamine
- Dextroamphetamine
Both are stimulants that increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain — chemicals responsible for attention, focus, and behavior regulation.
- Drug class: CNS stimulant
- Legal status: Prescription-only (Schedule II controlled substance in the U.S.)
- Common brand name: Adderall®, Adderall XR®
- Generic name: Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine
FDA – Adderall Prescribing Information
Therapeutic Uses of Adderall
1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Adderall helps patients with ADHD by:
- Increasing focus and concentration
- Reducing impulsive behavior
- Improving time management and productivity
It is often prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and counseling.
2. Narcolepsy
In patients with narcolepsy, Adderall helps prevent excessive daytime sleepiness by promoting wakefulness.
Adderall Dosage Guidelines
Dosage depends on age, condition, and response to treatment. Always follow a doctor’s instructions carefully.
| Patient Type | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Maximum Daily Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Children (6–12 yrs) | 5 mg once or twice daily | Increase by 5 mg weekly | 40 mg/day |
| Adolescents (13–17 yrs) | 10 mg once daily | May increase to 20 mg | 40 mg/day |
| Adults (ADHD) | 5–10 mg once or twice daily | Titrate by 10 mg weekly | 40 mg/day |
| Narcolepsy (Adults) | 10 mg twice daily | Adjust as needed | 60 mg/day |
Note: Extended-release form (Adderall XR) is usually taken once daily in the morning.
Drugs.com – Adderall Dosage Guide
Composition and Forms
| Formulation | Composition | Brand Example |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate Release (IR) | Amphetamine + Dextroamphetamine (1:1 ratio) | Adderall IR |
| Extended Release (XR) | Mixed amphetamine salts (50:50 d- and l- isomers) | Adderall XR |
| Generic Forms | Same active ingredients | Teva, Sandoz, Mylan, etc. |
Available strengths: 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 30 mg
How Adderall Works (Mechanism of Action)
Adderall works by:
- Stimulating dopamine and norepinephrine release in the brain
- Inhibiting their reuptake, increasing concentration and alertness
- Activating the prefrontal cortex, improving focus and decision-making
This makes it highly effective for managing ADHD symptoms and excessive sleepiness.
PubChem – Amphetamine Mechanism
Adderall Side Effects
While effective, Adderall can cause mild to serious side effects depending on the dose and individual tolerance.
Common Side Effects
- Loss of appetite
- Dry mouth
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Increased heart rate
- Nervousness or anxiety
- Weight loss
Serious Side Effects
- High blood pressure
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
- Mood changes (agitation, aggression)
- Addiction or dependence (with misuse)
- Seizures (rare)
Seek medical help immediately if you experience shortness of breath, fainting, or chest pain.
MedlinePlus – Adderall Side Effects
Adderall Drug Interactions
Avoid taking Adderall with:
- MAO inhibitors (phenelzine, isocarboxazid, selegiline)
- SSRIs or SNRIs (risk of serotonin syndrome)
- Alcohol (increases heart risk)
- Antacids (can alter absorption)
- Blood pressure medications (may counteract effects)
Adderall Brand Names & Variants
| Brand Name | Manufacturer | Form |
|---|---|---|
| Adderall | Teva Pharmaceuticals | Immediate Release |
| Adderall XR | Shire / Takeda | Extended Release |
| Mydayis | Shire / Takeda | Long-acting version |
| Evekeo | Arbor Pharmaceuticals | Immediate Release |
| Dexedrine | Amedra / Mallinckrodt | Dextroamphetamine only |
| Vyvanse | Takeda (prodrug form – lisdexamfetamine) | Capsule / Chewable |
Warnings & Precautions
- Not recommended for heart disease, hypertension, or hyperthyroidism
- Avoid if you have anxiety, glaucoma, or drug abuse history
- Pregnancy Category C — use only if benefits outweigh risks
- May cause dependence if used improperly
Adderall Misuse Warning
Adderall is a controlled substance because it carries a high potential for abuse.
Using it without a prescription or in high doses can cause:
- Addiction
- Heart attack or stroke
- Severe anxiety or paranoia
- Sudden death (in patients with heart problems)
How Long Does Adderall Stay in Your System?
The length of time Adderall stays in your system depends on several factors including dosage, metabolism, body weight, age, and frequency of use.
On average:
Immediate-Release (IR) Adderall: Detectable for 24 to 48 hours after the last dose.
Does Adderall Help with Anxiety?
No Adderall is not approved to treat anxiety. In fact, it can often make anxiety symptoms worse for some people
Is Adderall Addictive
es — Adderall can be addictive, especially when used without a prescription, in higher doses, or for non-medical purposes such as studying or enhancing performance.