Adderall

Adderall is a drug used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Adderall is a stimulant, but when used at the doses for ADHD, it has a calming effect. When used for narcolepsy, Adderall is used at higher, more stimulating doses. Adderall comes in the form of a tablet that is usually taken by mouth twice daily. As with any medication, there are potential side effects of Adderall, including a loss of appetite, dry mouth, and insomnia. 

 

What Is Adderall?

Adderall® (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) is a prescription medication that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is also used to treat narcolepsy. Because Adderall is an amphetamine and is commonly abused, there are special rules for prescribing Adderall (see Adderall: A Controlled Substance for more information).
 

Who Makes Adderall?

Adderall is manufactured by Shire US, Inc. Generic Adderall is made by several different manufacturers.
 

What Is Adderall Used For?

As mentioned above, Adderall is licensed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD for short. In addition to experiencing hyperactivity (having trouble sitting still), people with ADHD have problems paying attention, focusing, and controlling their behavior. While most people think of ADHD as a problem in children, it can also occur in adults (see Adult ADHD).
 
Adderall is also licensed for narcolepsy treatment. Narcolepsy is a condition that involves falling unsleep uncontrollably and at unusual times. People who have narcolepsy symptoms often appear paralyzed when they are sleeping and have hallucinations when falling asleep. People who have narcolepsy often fall asleep several times during the day.
 
(Click Adderall Uses for more information on the uses of Adderall, including possible off-label uses.)
 

How Does Adderall Work?

Adderall is a stimulant, although it can have the opposite effects from what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants (like caffeine) can cause hyperactivity, when used at the doses for ADHD, Adderall has a calming effect. While the exact way Adderall produces a calming effect is not known, it is known that Adderall affects chemicals in the brain. In general, Adderall is used at higher, more stimulating doses when used for narcolepsy.
 

When and How to Take Adderall

Some general considerations for when and how to take Adderall include:
 
  • Adderall comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth twice daily, although some people (especially those using Adderall for narcolepsy) will need to take Adderall more often.
     
  • It does not matter if you take Adderall with or without food.
     
  • For Adderall to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Adderall will not work if you stop taking it.
     

Adderall Dosing

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

Side Effects of Adderall

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Adderall. However, not everyone who takes Adderall will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate Adderall 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 include:
 
(Click Adderall Side Effects to learn more about the specific side effects of Adderall, including serious side effects to look out for. You can also read about other possible side effects by going to:
 

Drug Interactions With Adderall

Adderall can potentially interact with a number of medicines.
 
(Click Adderall Interactions for more information about taking Adderall with other medicines.)
 

Adderall: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider before taking Adderall 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 health care provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, antacids, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Adderall Warnings and Precautions for more information on this topic, including information on who should not take Adderall.)
 

Overdose With Adderall

People who take too much Adderall may have overdose symptoms that could 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 on Adderall, seek medical attention immediately.
 
(Click Adderall Overdose for more information.)
 

Adderall Storage Methods

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

Adderall: What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

If you do not take your Adderall as scheduled, take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
 

Adderall: Strengths

Adderall tablets are available in seven strengths:
 
  • Adderall 5 mg
  • Adderall 7.5 mg
  • Adderall 10 mg
  • Adderall 12.5 mg
  • Adderall 15 mg
  • Adderall 20 mg
  • Adderall 30 mg.
     

Generic Adderall

There is currently both a generic and brand-name Adderall licensed for sale. It is, however, not possible to buy Adderall without a prescription.
 
(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;