Adderall XR

A healthcare provider may prescribe Adderall XR to help treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Although the medication is a stimulant, it can cause a calming effect when used in certain doses to treat ADHD. Adderall XR comes in a capsule form and is designed to dissolve slowly. As with any medication, there are potential side effects with this drug, including a loss of appetite, insomnia, and weight loss.

 

What Is Adderall XR?

Adderall XR® (amphetamine-dextroamphetamine extended release) is a prescription medication that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Because it is an amphetamine and is commonly abused, there are special rules for prescribing it (see Adderall: A Controlled Substance).
 
(Click Adderall XR Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses of the drug.)
 

Who Makes Adderall XR?

It is manufactured by Shire US, Inc.
 

How Does It Work?

Adderall XR is a stimulant, although it has effects that are opposite from what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants (like caffeine) can cause hyperactivity, Adderall XR can have a calming effect. While the exact way it produces a calming effect is not known, it is known that the medication affects chemicals in the brain.
 
Adderall XR is a medication that is designed to dissolve slowly. Because the medication is released slowly, it can be taken just once a day, eliminating the need to take medication at school or work.
 

Effectiveness

There have been several studies looking at using Adderall XR for ADHD symptoms. Some of the results of these ADHD research studies are highlighted below.
 
ADHD and Children
In one study, children with ADHD who took Adderall XR had significant improvements in behavior compared to children who did not take it. These behavior improvements were reported by teachers, who noticed behavior improvements throughout the day (morning and afternoon) in children who were taking Adderall XR.
 
ADHD and Teenagers
In another study, teenagers with ADHD who took Adderall XR had a greater improvement in their ADHD symptoms compared to teenagers with ADHD who did not take it.
 
Adult ADHD
Adderall XR was also studied in people with adult ADHD. It was shown to be effective for treating adult ADHD symptoms.
 

When and How to Take Adderall XR

Some general considerations for when and how to take the medication include:
 
  • Adderall XR comes in capsule form. It should be taken by mouth once a day first thing in the morning. You can take it with or without food.
     
  • The capsules contain tiny beads that release the medication slowly, so it is important to swallow Adderall XR whole (do not chew or crush it).
     
  • For people that have difficultly swallowing, the capsules may be opened and the beads sprinkled on applesauce. The applesauce should be eaten right away and should not be chewed.
     
  • For Adderall XR to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
     

Dosing

The dose of Adderall XR your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Your age
  • Other ADHD medications you have tried
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • Other medications you may currently be taking.
     
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Adderall XR Dosing for more information about dosing for Adderall XR.)
 

Side Effects

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Adderall XR. However, not everyone who takes it will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. When side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
The most common side effects of Adderall XR include:
 
Adderall XR can cause high blood pressure. Usually, this increase in blood pressure is temporary and does not cause any problems. Adderall XR can also increase the chance of seizures and can make certain heart conditions and mental problems worse.
 
(Click Adderall XR Side Effects to learn more about the specific side effects, including serious side effects to look out for. You can also read about other possible side effects by going to:
 

Drug Interactions With Adderall XR

Adderall XR can potentially interact with a number of medicines.
 
(Click Adderall XR Drug Interactions for more information about these possible interactions.)
 

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider before taking Adderall XR if you have:
 
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
 
  • Are allergic to any medications
  • Are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant (see Adderall and Pregnancy)
  • Are breastfeeding
  • Drink alcohol regularly.
     
Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, antacids, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Adderall XR Warnings and Precautions for more information on this topic, including information on who should not take the drug.)
 

Overdose

People who take too much Adderall XR may have overdose symptoms that can include:
 
  • Hyperactivity (trouble sitting still)
  • Fast breathing
  • Confusion
  • Fever
  • Muscle pains
  • Shakiness
  • Aggressiveness
  • Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not really there).
     
If you happen to overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
 
(Click Adderall Overdose for more information.)
 

Storage Methods

Adderall XR capsules should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture or heat. The capsules should be kept in an airtight container.
 
Keep Adderall XR and all medications out of the reach of children.
 

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

If you do not take your dose as scheduled, take your next dose as soon as you remember in the morning. If you do not remember until the afternoon, skip the dose. If you do not take Adderall XR in the morning, it can cause trouble sleeping at night. Do not take a double dose.
 

Strengths

Adderall XR capsules are available in six strengths:
 
  • Adderall XR 5 mg
  • Adderall XR 10 mg
  • Adderall XR 15 mg
  • Adderall XR 20 mg
  • Adderall XR 25 mg
  • Adderall XR 30 mg.
     

Generic Adderall XR

This medication is available in generic form.
 
(Click Generic Adderall for more information.) 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;