Adderall (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine)

Generic name: dextroamphetamine and amphetamine
Drug class: CNS stimulants

Oral route (Tablet)

Amphetamines can be a potent drug to be abused and their use for extended periods of time can cause dependence. Amphetamine misuse can result in sudden death as well as serious adverse cardiovascular reactions.

Oral route(Capsule Extended Release)

CNS stimulants, including dextroamphetamine/amphetamine extended-release capsules, other amphetamine-containing products, and methylphenidate, have a high potential for abuse and dependence. Examine the potential for abuse prior to prescribing. Also, be aware of signs of dependence and abuse while using treatment¹.

Brand name(s)

In the U.S.

Adderall
Adderall XR
Mydayis

In Canada

ACT Amphetamine XR – 10MG Tablet
ACT Amphetamine XR – 15MG Tablet
ACT Amphetamine XR – 20MG Tablet
ACT Amphetamine XR – 25MG Tablet
ACT Amphetamine XR – 30MG Tablet
ACT Amphetamine XR – 5MG Tablet
APO-Amphetamine XR – 10MG Tablet
APO-Amphetamine XR – 15MG Tablet
APO-Amphetamine XR – 20MG Tablet
APO-Amphetamine XR – 25MG Tablet
APO-Amphetamine XR – 30MG Tablet
APO-Amphetamine XR – 5MG Tablet

Available Dosage Forms:

Capsule, Extended Release
Tablet

Therapeutic Class: CNS Stimulant

Chemical Class: Amphetamine

Uses for Adderall

The combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine is utilized to treat the attention-deficit disorder (ADHD) and Narcolepsy (uncontrollable desire to sleep or sudden bouts in deep sleep). The two drugs belong to the category of drugs known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants.

The combination of dextroamphetamine with amphetamine is effective in treating ADHD to improve concentration and reduce restlessness in those who are hyperactive and unable to concentrate or have trouble staying focused. It is part of a complete treatment plan which also includes educational, social, and psychological therapies.

This medication is only available on prescription from a physician. Prescriptions are not refillable. A new prescription has to be sought from your physician each time you require this medication.

Before making use of Adderall

In making a decision to take a medication, the potential risks of taking the medicine have to be considered against the benefits it can bring. It is a choice you and your physician take. To determine the appropriate medicine it is important to take the following into assessed:

Allergies

Inform your doctor If you’ve ever experienced an unusual reaction or an allergic reaction to this medication or any other medication. Be sure to inform your health doctor if you are suffering from other kinds of allergies, for example, dyes, food, or preservatives. You may also be allergic to animals. For products that are not prescription-only, you must review the label or the ingredients on the package carefully.

Pediatric

Studies that are appropriate so far have not revealed issues that are specific to children, which could restrict the efficacy of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine in combination in treating ADHD among children. But, the safety and effectiveness are not known in children who are younger than 3 years old the age of Adderall(r) tablets or in children less than 6 years old in the case of Adderall XR(r) Extended-release pills and for children who are younger than 13 years old in the case of Mydayis(r) Extended-release pills.

Geriatric

Studies that are appropriate to study the relation of age and adverse effects from Adderall(r) tablets and Adderall XR(r) extended-release capsules are not being conducted on the population of geriatrics.

The studies that have been conducted so far have not revealed any geriatric-specific issues that might hinder the effectiveness of the use of Mydayis(r) extended-release pills in older patients. However, patients who are elderly have a higher likelihood to suffer from aging-related kidney, liver, or heart conditions that may warrant caution and a change in dosage of patients taking this medication.

Breastfeeding

Studies on women who breastfeed have revealed harmful effects for infants. Different medication is to be prescribed, or you must stop breastfeeding during the course of this medication.

Interactions between medicines

While certain medications should not be taken together, however, there are instances where two different medications can be taken together, even if there is a chance of interaction. In these instances, the doctor might decide to alter the dosage or make other precautions required. If you are taking this medication, it is essential that you inform your healthcare provider that you are currently taking one or more of the drugs that are listed below. These interactions have been determined based on their potential impact and may not be all-inclusive.

The use of this medication in conjunction with any of these medications is not advised. Your doctor could decide to not prescribe this medication or modify any other medication you are taking.

Furazolidone
Iproniazid
Isocarboxazid
Linezolid
Methylene Blue
Moclobemide
Nialamide
Phenelzine
Procarbazine
Rasagiline
Safinamide
Selegiline
Sibutramine
Tranylcypromine

Combining this medication in conjunction with the following medications is generally not recommended, but it could be necessary in certain situations. If both medications are prescribed in conjunction and your doctor recommends a change in the dosage or the frequency you take one or both of the drugs.

Abiraterone Acetate
Acetazolamide
Alfentanil
Almotriptan
Aluminum
Amifampridine
Amineptine
Amitriptyline
Amitriptylinoxide
Amoxapine
Anileridine
Benzhydrocodone
Benzthiazide
Brompheniramine
Buprenorphine
Bupropion
Buspirone
Butorphanol
Calcium Carbonate
Carbamazepine
Chlorothiazide
Chlorpheniramine
Citalopram
Clomipramine
Cocaine
Codeine
Cyclobenzaprine
Desipramine
Desvenlafaxine
Dexlansoprazole
Dextromethorphan
Diazoxide
Dibenzepin
Difenoxin
Dihydrocodeine
Dihydroxyaluminum Aminoacetate
Diphenoxylate
Dolasetron
Donepezil
Doxepin
Duloxetine
Eletriptan
Escitalopram
Esomeprazole
Ethylmorphine
Fenfluramine
Fentanyl
Fluoxetine
Fluvoxamine
Frovatriptan
Granisetron
Hydrochlorothiazide
Hydrocodone
Hydroflumethiazide
Hydromorphone
Hydroxytryptophan
Imipramine
Iobenguane I 131
Ketobemidone
Lansoprazole
Lasmiditan
Levomilnacipran
Levorphanol
Lithium
Lofepramine
Lorcaserin
Magaldrate
Magnesium Carbonate
Melitracen
Meperidine
Metaxalone
Methadone
Milnacipran
Mirtazapine
Morphine
Morphine Sulfate Liposome
Nalbuphine
Naratriptan
Nefazodone
Nicomorphine
Nortriptyline
Omeprazole
Ondansetron
Opipramol
Opium
Opium Alkaloids
Oxycodone
Oxymorphone
Palonosetron
Pantoprazole
Papaveretum
Paregoric
Paroxetine
Pentazocine
Piritramide
Polythiazide
Protriptyline
Quinidine
Rabeprazole
Remifentanil
Ritonavir
Rizatriptan
Sertraline
Sodium Bicarbonate
St John’s Wort
Sufentanil
Sumatriptan
Tapentadol
Terbinafine
Tianeptine
Tilidine
Tramadol
Trazodone
Trichlormethiazide
Trimipramine
Tryptophan
Venlafaxine
Vilazodone
Vortioxetine
Xipamide
Ziprasidone
Zolmitriptan

Interactions with alcohol/food/tobacco/alcohol

Certain medications are not recommended to be taken at or in conjunction with having food items or eating particular kinds of food as interactions could happen. The use of tobacco or alcohol along with certain medications may result in interactions. The below interactions have been chosen in light of their potential importance and are not intended to be comprehensive.

Other medical conditions

The presence of medical issues could impact the effectiveness of this medication. Be sure to inform your physician if you suffer from any other medical conditions particularly:

Agitation that is severe
Anxiety, particularly severe
The Arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arterial arteries) It can be severe
Coronary artery disease (CAD)
A history of drug abuse
Glaucoma
Heart attack, recent
Blood vessel or heart disease (eg cardiomyopathy, eg) serious
Heart rhythm problems (eg, ventricular arrhythmia)
Hypertension (high blood pressure) mild to severe
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
Stroke
Tension, severe – Should not be used on patients with these ailments.

Bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness) or an ancestor’s history of
Depression or family background of
Heart rhythm issues (eg arrhythmias, arrhythmias) or an ancestor’s history of
Hypertension (high blood pressure) mild
History of mania
The Psychosis (mental illness) A history of
Raynaud disease
Seizures
Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
It is a condition known as Tourette syndrome (tics) and a familial history of – Use with care. It can make the condition worse.

Kidney disease that is severe. Use is not recommended for patients suffering from this type of condition.

Proper use of Adderall

This section contains information on how to use several items that have dextroamphetamine as well as amphetamine. It might not be applicable to Adderall. Take care when reading.

Use this medicine only as prescribed by your physician. Don’t take less or more of it, don’t use it more frequently, and don’t use it for a longer duration than what your doctor has prescribed. If you consume excessively, the drug can be habit-forming (causing physical or mental dependence).

This medication should include a Medication, Manual. Follow these directions attentively. Consult your physician or pharmacist for any concerns.

If you feel that the medicine isn’t working as it should after having taken it for a few months, don’t increase your dosage and talk to your physician.

Use the normal tablet in the morning and then in the afternoon. If you are taking the tablet at night it may be difficult to get to sleep at night.

If you’re making use of extended-release capsules: longer-release capsule:

Drink the capsule in whole some water or another liquid. Don’t crush, break or chew it.
The capsule should be taken at the beginning of the day, just after you have risen. If you use it in the evening or afternoon it could be difficult sleeping through the night.
You can consume the capsule without or with food, but you must be sure you take it in exactly the same way every time.
If you’re unable to swallow the capsule, gently break it open and then sprinkle tiny beads on top of spoonful of applesauce. Then, swallow the whole thing without chewing. Don’t keep the mix for later use. Don’t crush or chew the capsule’s beads.

Dosing

The dose of this medication can differ for different people. Follow the doctor’s instructions or the instructions in the prescription. The information below is only the doses that are typical of this medication. If you have a dose that is different don’t alter it unless your doctor instructs you to change it.

The amount of medicine you are taking is determined by your strength drug. Additionally, the amount of doses that you are taking each day, the amount of time between doses, as well as the duration of time that you are taking the medication will be contingent on the medical issue for which you’re taking the medication.

for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD):
- For oral dosage (Adderall XR(r) Extended-release capsules):
  - Adults: 20 milligrams (mg) daily at the beginning of each day. Your doctor can alter your dosage if necessary.
  - Children aged 13-17 years old–At the beginning, take 10 mg twice each day in the early morning. Your doctor can alter the dose if necessary.
  - Children between 6 and 12 years old–Start with 10 mg twice a day, in the morning. Your physician can alter the dose if needed. However, the dose should generally not be higher than 30 mg per day.
  - Children under 6 years old – Use and dosage should be determined by your physician.
- For oral dosage forms (Mydayis(r) Extended-release capsules):
  - Adults–Start with 12.5 milligrams (mg) daily in the morning when you get up. Your physician may alter your dosage as necessary. But, the dosage is typically not greater than 50 mg per day.
  - Children between 13 and 17 years old–Initially, 12.5 mg once every day in the early morning. Your physician may alter the dosage as required. However, the dosage should generally not be greater than 25 mg per day.
  - Children who are younger than 13 years old – Use and dosage must be determined by your doctor.
- For oral dosage form (Adderall(r) tablets):
  - Adults and children six to 12 years old or older. At first 5 mg (mg) is taken once or twice each day. Your physician may alter your dosage as required.
  - Children aged 3 to 5 years old, 2.5 mg once a day. Your physician can alter the dosage as needed.
  - Children who are younger than 3 years old – use is not advised.
For Narcolepsy:
- For oral dosage form (Adderall(r) tablets):
  - Children and adults aged 12 and older–Initially 10 milligrams (mg) daily divided into two doses. Your doctor can adjust the dosage as needed.
  - Children ranging from 6-12 years old – At the beginning 5 mg per day. Your physician may alter the dosage as required.
  - Children who are younger than 6 years old – Use and dosage should be determined by your physician.

Missed dose

If you have missed the dose of this medication be sure to take it as fast as you can. But, if it’s nearing the time to take your next dose, avoid the missed dose, and go back to your usual dose schedule. Don’t double doses.

Storage

Keep the medication in a sealed bottle at room temperatures, and away from moisture, heat, and bright light. Avoid the medicine from freezing.

Keep away from the reach of children.

Don’t keep old medicine or medicines that are no longer required.

Consult your physician to tell you how to dispose of any medication you don’t make use of.

Be aware of the precautions to take when taking Adderall.

It is vital that your doctor monitor your child’s or your own progress regularly to make sure that the medication is functioning properly. It is possible to conduct blood tests to determine if there are any adverse side effects.

Do not take amphetamine or dextroamphetamine in combination with monoamine oxide (MAO) inhibitor (eg isocarboxazid [Marplan(r)), the phenelzine [Nardil(r)Selegiline [Eldepryl(r)] ], Tranylcypromine [Parnate(r )]). Do not begin taking this medication during the two weeks following your have stopped taking using an MAO inhibitor. If you take both or don’t wait 2 weeks, you could be prone to confusion, agitation anxiety, restlessness, headaches or bowel discomfort a sudden increase in body temperature, a very high blood pressure, or even severe convulsions.

This medication could cause serious blood or heart vessel issues. It is possible for patients with ancestry or heart disease. Consult your physician immediately in the event that the child or you is experiencing chest pain, breathing problems fainting, or a rapid and irregular heartbeat after taking the medication.

Your child or you will be required to have cardiovascular and blood pressure checked prior to starting this medication and during the time you use it. Should you experience any changes to your blood pressure levels, contact your doctor immediately. If you have any concerns regarding this, speak to your physician.

Contact your physician immediately when you or your family observe any changes that are unusual in your behavior, like an increase in hostility, aggression or agitation. or suicidal thoughts or behavior. Tell your doctor when either you or your kid has strange thoughts or hallucinations especially if they’re recent or are getting worse.

This medication can cause patients to experience an unreal sense of wellbeing or feel dizzy or lightheaded. They may also be less alert than normally. This can cause blurred vision or other vision issues. Avoid driving or engaging in any activity that may be risky until you are aware of what the effects of this medicine are on you.

If you’ve used this medication for a long period of time and you believe you’ve become physically or mentally dependent on it, speak with your physician right away. The signs of dependency could include:

A strong desire or desire to keep taking the medication.
It is necessary to increase the dose in order to achieve the same results.
Effects of withdrawal after discontinuing the medicine, include nausea, depression, stomach cramps, vomiting, or the sensation of trembling, pain, or unusual fatigue or weakness.

This medication can cause slow growth. When your kid is taking this medication, your doctor must monitor the height and weight of your child.

The medicine could cause Raynaud’s phenomenon that is a problem that affects blood circulation in the toes or fingers. Inform your doctor when you feel tingling or sensation of pain, coldness or paleness, or changes in the color of your toes or fingers, particularly in colder temperatures. Consult your physician immediately in the event that you notice unidentified ulcers or sores on the toes or fingers.

If you’re scheduled for any medical test, inform the doctor who is in charge that you’re taking this medication. Certain tests’ results could have an effect on this medication.

This medication may increase the chance of seizures. It is more likely to occur in people who have had previous seizures or heart rate disorders. Talk to your doctor immediately if you notice this.

Consult your physician right immediately if you experience anxiety, insomnia, a rapid heartbeat, fever, muscles spasms, sweating and twitching, nausea diarrhea, vomiting, or even hear or see things that aren’t there. These are signs of a serious illness known as serotonin syndrome. The risk of developing serotonin syndrome is higher in the event that you take other medications that impact the levels of serotonin in your body.

Do not take any other medication without discussing them with your physician. This includes prescription and other non-prescription (over-the-counter (OTC)) medications or herbs (eg, St. John’s wort) particularly those that help control appetite as well as colds, asthma as well as cough, hay fever, and allergies as well as sinus issues.

Adderall adverse effects

In addition to its beneficial effects, some medicines may produce unwanted side adverse effects. Although not all adverse effects can be present, if they do occur, they could require medical attention.

Consult your physician immediately If any of these negative side effects occur:

More commonly

Bladder pain
Bloody or cloudy urine
painful pain, burning, or difficult or painful
rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeats or pulse
the constant urge to urinate
Side or lower back or side

Less popular

Chills
cough
diarrhea
febrile
a general feeling of discomfort or sickness
headache
hoarseness
joint pain
Appetit loss
Muscle aches and pains
nausea
runny nose
Shivering
sore throat
sweating
Trouble sleep
unusual weakness or fatigue
vomiting

Incidence unknown

Blistering, peeling, or loosening
chest discomfort or pain
confusion
Dark urine that is dark
difficulties breathing
trouble speaking
difficulties swallowing
dizziness
double vision
faintness
inability to move legs, arms, or facial muscles
inability to speak
itching or itching,
Large, hive-like swellings on the eyelids, face, and lips. It can also be seen on the tongue and throat, hands feet, legs, or the genitals
Loss of bladder control
Muscle cramps or stiffness
muscle spasm or jerking the legs and arms
discomfort or pain in the jaw, arm, or back
Lesions of the skin that are red, typically with a purple central
Eyes that are red and irritated
experiencing, hearing, or sensing things that aren’t present
seizures
Slow speech
ulcers, sores, or white spots on your mouth, or around the lip
abrupt loss of consciousness
swelling of the lower or foot area
Tightness in the chest
repeatedly and uncontrolled (tics)
involuntary vocal outbursts
unusual fatigue or weakness

There are some side effects that can occur but they usually do not require medical treatment. These side effects can be eliminated after treatment, as your body gets used to the medication. Additionally your health professional might be able to inform you of ways to avoid or minimize certain adverse effects. Consult your doctor for any of these symptoms persist or become troubling or if there are any concerns about these:

More popular

Anxiety
dry mouth
weakness or lack of strength or
stomach pain
weight loss