Adderall 15mg Tablets
WARNING: This drug has a high risk of misuse. This can lead to alcohol or drug use disorder. Misuse or abuse of this drug can lead to overdose or death. The risk is higher with higher doses or when used in ways that are not approved like snorting or injecting it. Do not give this drug to anyone else. This drug may also be habit-forming if taken for a long time. Do not take for longer than you have been told by your doctor. Use only as you were told. Tell your doctor if you have ever had alcohol or drug use disorder. You will be watched closely while taking this drug. Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets. Throw away unused or expired drugs as you have been told. @ COMMON USES: It is used to treat attention deficit problems with hyperactivity.It is used to treat narcolepsy.It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Central Nervous System Stimulant
Pharmacologic Class
Amphetamine
Pregnancy Category
Not available
FDA Approved
Jan 1996
DEA Schedule
Schedule II
Overview
What is this medicine?
Adderall is a medication that contains two stimulant drugs, dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. It works by increasing the levels of certain natural substances in the brain that help with focus and attention. It is primarily used to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication Correctly
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely. You can take this medication with or without food. However, take your last dose of the day at least 4 hours before bedtime to minimize any potential disruptions to your sleep.
Before using any over-the-counter (OTC) products, consult with your doctor, especially if they may increase your blood pressure. These products include cough or cold medications, diet pills, stimulants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen, and certain natural products or aids.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To maintain the effectiveness and safety of your medication, store it at room temperature, protected from light, and in a dry place. Avoid storing it in a bathroom. Keep all medications in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
When disposing of unused or expired medications, do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult with your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal method. You may also want to inquire about drug take-back programs in your area.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for the missed one.
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely. You can take this medication with or without food. However, take your last dose of the day at least 4 hours before bedtime to minimize any potential disruptions to your sleep.
Before using any over-the-counter (OTC) products, consult with your doctor, especially if they may increase your blood pressure. These products include cough or cold medications, diet pills, stimulants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen, and certain natural products or aids.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To maintain the effectiveness and safety of your medication, store it at room temperature, protected from light, and in a dry place. Avoid storing it in a bathroom. Keep all medications in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
When disposing of unused or expired medications, do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult with your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal method. You may also want to inquire about drug take-back programs in your area.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for the missed one.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take exactly as prescribed; do not take more or less than directed.
- Do not crush, chew, or break extended-release tablets (if applicable).
- Avoid taking doses late in the day to prevent sleep problems.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
- Avoid alcohol consumption while on this medication.
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise, especially for children, to support overall health and growth.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Adderall XR 30mg Capsules
- Adderall XR 20mg Capsules
- Adderall XR 10mg Capsules
- Adderall XR 15mg Capsules
- Adderall XR 5mg Capsules
- Adderall XR 25mg Capsules
- Adderall 10mg Tablets
- Adderall 30mg Tablets
- Adderall 20mg Tablets
- Adderall 15mg Tablets
- Adderall 5mg Tablets
- Adderall 12.5mg Tablets
- Adderall 7.5mg Tablets
Generic Alternatives:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
ADHD: Initial 5 mg once or twice daily; Narcolepsy: Initial 10 mg daily in divided doses.
Dose Range:
5 - 60 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
ADHD:
Initial 5 mg once or twice daily, titrate by 5 mg weekly to optimal response. Max 40 mg/day.
Narcolepsy:
Initial 10 mg daily in divided doses, titrate by 10 mg weekly. Max 60 mg/day.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Not established
Child:
ADHD (6-12 years): Initial 5 mg once or twice daily, titrate by 5 mg weekly. Max 30 mg/day.
Adolescent:
ADHD (13-17 years): Initial 10 mg daily, titrate by 10 mg weekly. Max 40 mg/day.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment recommended, monitor for adverse effects.
Moderate:
Consider lower initial doses and slower titration. Monitor for adverse effects.
Severe:
Use with caution; consider lower doses and extended dosing intervals. Monitor closely.
Dialysis:
Not well studied; generally not recommended due to potential for accumulation and adverse effects.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment recommended.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment recommended.
Severe:
No specific adjustment recommended.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Amphetamines are non-catecholamine sympathomimetic amines that exert their therapeutic effect by releasing norepinephrine and dopamine from presynaptic nerve terminals in the brain. They also inhibit the reuptake of these monoamines, leading to increased concentrations in the synaptic cleft.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Approximately 75% (oral)
Tmax:
Dextroamphetamine: 3.0 hours; Amphetamine: 3.2 hours (for immediate-release)
FoodEffect:
Food does not significantly affect the extent of absorption, but may delay Tmax.
Distribution:
Vd:
Dextroamphetamine: 2.7-3.9 L/kg; Amphetamine: 3.7-5.1 L/kg
ProteinBinding:
Approximately 15-20%
CnssPenetration:
Yes
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Dextroamphetamine: 10-13 hours; Amphetamine: 9-11 hours (pH-dependent)
Clearance:
Highly dependent on urinary pH; acidic urine increases clearance.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (primarily)
Unchanged:
Approximately 30-50% (highly dependent on urinary pH)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
30-60 minutes
PeakEffect:
1-3 hours
DurationOfAction:
4-6 hours
Safety & Warnings
BLACK BOX WARNING
AMPHETAMINES HAVE A HIGH POTENTIAL FOR ABUSE. ADMINISTRATION OF AMPHETAMINES FOR PROLONGED PERIODS OF TIME MAY LEAD TO DRUG DEPENDENCE. MISUSE OF AMPHETAMINES MAY CAUSE SUDDEN DEATH AND SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR ADVERSE EVENTS.
Side Effects
Serious Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood pressure, including:
+ Severe headache
+ Dizziness
+ Passing out
+ Changes in eyesight
Signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), such as:
+ Blood in the urine
+ Burning or pain when passing urine
+ Frequent or urgent need to urinate
+ Fever
+ Lower stomach pain
+ Pelvic pain
Other serious side effects, including:
+ Erectile dysfunction
+ Changes in sex interest
+ Seizures
+ Trouble controlling body movements
+ Trouble controlling sounds, such as humming, throat clearing, yelling, or making loud noises
+ Restlessness
+ Changes in eyesight
+ Prolonged or frequent erections
+ Changes in skin color, such as pale, blue, gray, purple, or red discoloration
+ Numbness, pain, tingling, or cold feeling in the hands or feet
+ Sores or wounds on the fingers or toes
+ Muscle pain or weakness
+ Dark urine
+ Trouble passing urine
If you have a heart problem or defect, or if a family member has an abnormal heartbeat or died suddenly, inform your doctor. Seek medical help immediately if you experience any signs of heart problems, such as:
Chest pain
Abnormal heartbeat
Shortness of breath
Severe dizziness or passing out
Other Side Effects
Most people do not experience serious side effects, and many have no side effects or only minor ones. However, if you experience any of the following side effects, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:
Feeling nervous and excitable
Headache
Trouble sleeping
Constipation
Diarrhea
Stomach pain
Upset stomach
Throwing up
Decreased appetite
Feeling dizzy, tired, or weak
Dry mouth
Bad taste in your mouth
* Weight loss
Reporting Side Effects
If you have questions about side effects or want to report a side effect, contact your doctor or call the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood pressure, including:
+ Severe headache
+ Dizziness
+ Passing out
+ Changes in eyesight
Signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), such as:
+ Blood in the urine
+ Burning or pain when passing urine
+ Frequent or urgent need to urinate
+ Fever
+ Lower stomach pain
+ Pelvic pain
Other serious side effects, including:
+ Erectile dysfunction
+ Changes in sex interest
+ Seizures
+ Trouble controlling body movements
+ Trouble controlling sounds, such as humming, throat clearing, yelling, or making loud noises
+ Restlessness
+ Changes in eyesight
+ Prolonged or frequent erections
+ Changes in skin color, such as pale, blue, gray, purple, or red discoloration
+ Numbness, pain, tingling, or cold feeling in the hands or feet
+ Sores or wounds on the fingers or toes
+ Muscle pain or weakness
+ Dark urine
+ Trouble passing urine
If you have a heart problem or defect, or if a family member has an abnormal heartbeat or died suddenly, inform your doctor. Seek medical help immediately if you experience any signs of heart problems, such as:
Chest pain
Abnormal heartbeat
Shortness of breath
Severe dizziness or passing out
Other Side Effects
Most people do not experience serious side effects, and many have no side effects or only minor ones. However, if you experience any of the following side effects, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:
Feeling nervous and excitable
Headache
Trouble sleeping
Constipation
Diarrhea
Stomach pain
Upset stomach
Throwing up
Decreased appetite
Feeling dizzy, tired, or weak
Dry mouth
Bad taste in your mouth
* Weight loss
Reporting Side Effects
If you have questions about side effects or want to report a side effect, contact your doctor or call the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting (seek immediate medical attention)
- New or worsening aggression, hostility, or irritability
- New psychotic symptoms (e.g., hearing voices, believing things that are not true)
- New manic symptoms (e.g., extreme energy, racing thoughts)
- Unexplained numbness, pain, skin color change, or sensitivity to temperature in fingers or toes
- Blurred vision or other vision changes
- Unexplained weight loss or slowed growth in children
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
A family history of certain health conditions, including:
+ Blood vessel disease
+ High blood pressure
+ Heart structure problems or other heart-related issues
+ Tourette's syndrome or tics
Your medical history, particularly if you have:
+ Glaucoma
+ Agitation
+ Anxiety
+ Overactive thyroid
+ A history of drug abuse
+ A history of stroke
Kidney disease, as this may affect how your body processes the medication
Current or recent use of certain medications, including:
+ Acetazolamide
+ Sodium bicarbonate
+ Certain antidepressants or Parkinson's disease medications (such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, or rasagiline) taken within the last 14 days, as this may increase the risk of very high blood pressure
+ Linezolid or methylene blue
If you are breast-feeding, as you should not breast-feed while taking this medication
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, as well as any health problems you have. This will help ensure your safety while taking this medication. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
A family history of certain health conditions, including:
+ Blood vessel disease
+ High blood pressure
+ Heart structure problems or other heart-related issues
+ Tourette's syndrome or tics
Your medical history, particularly if you have:
+ Glaucoma
+ Agitation
+ Anxiety
+ Overactive thyroid
+ A history of drug abuse
+ A history of stroke
Kidney disease, as this may affect how your body processes the medication
Current or recent use of certain medications, including:
+ Acetazolamide
+ Sodium bicarbonate
+ Certain antidepressants or Parkinson's disease medications (such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, or rasagiline) taken within the last 14 days, as this may increase the risk of very high blood pressure
+ Linezolid or methylene blue
If you are breast-feeding, as you should not breast-feed while taking this medication
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, as well as any health problems you have. This will help ensure your safety while taking this medication. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
Precautions & Cautions
Important Warnings and Precautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.
Caution with Daily Activities
Avoid driving and engaging in activities that require alertness or clear vision until you understand how this medication affects you.
Tolerance and Dependence
Long-term or high-dose use of this medication may lead to tolerance, where the medication becomes less effective, and higher doses may be needed to achieve the same effect. If you experience a decrease in the medication's effectiveness, contact your doctor. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Additionally, regular use of this medication may cause dependence, and sudden cessation may result in withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor before reducing the dose or stopping the medication, and follow their instructions carefully.
Monitoring and Testing
Your doctor may recommend heart tests before starting this medication. If you have any questions or concerns, discuss them with your doctor. Regularly check your blood pressure and heart rate as instructed by your doctor. You will also need to undergo blood tests as directed by your doctor.
Interactions with Other Medications and Lab Tests
This medication may affect certain lab tests, so inform all your healthcare providers and lab personnel that you are taking this medication. Do not take antacids with this medication, as it may interact with the medication.
Mental Health and Mood Changes
New or worsening behavior and mood changes, such as altered thinking, anger, and hallucinations, have been reported with this medication. If you or a family member have a history of mental or mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar illness, or if a family member has committed suicide, inform your doctor. Immediately contact your doctor if you experience hallucinations, changes in behavior, or signs of mood changes, including depression, suicidal thoughts, nervousness, emotional instability, abnormal thinking, anxiety, or loss of interest in life.
Seizure Risk
This medication may increase the risk of seizures in some individuals, including those with a history of seizures. Discuss your risk with your doctor.
Serotonin Syndrome
A potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome may occur if you take this medication with certain other medications. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience agitation, balance changes, confusion, hallucinations, fever, abnormal heartbeat, flushing, muscle twitching or stiffness, seizures, shivering or shaking, excessive sweating, severe diarrhea, stomach upset, or vomiting, or severe headache.
Effects on Growth in Children and Adolescents
This medication may affect growth in children and adolescents. They may require regular growth checks. Different brands of this medication may be approved for use in different age groups, so consult your doctor before giving this medication to a child.
Alcohol Consumption
Discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor before drinking while taking this medication.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, consult your doctor to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy.
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.
Caution with Daily Activities
Avoid driving and engaging in activities that require alertness or clear vision until you understand how this medication affects you.
Tolerance and Dependence
Long-term or high-dose use of this medication may lead to tolerance, where the medication becomes less effective, and higher doses may be needed to achieve the same effect. If you experience a decrease in the medication's effectiveness, contact your doctor. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Additionally, regular use of this medication may cause dependence, and sudden cessation may result in withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor before reducing the dose or stopping the medication, and follow their instructions carefully.
Monitoring and Testing
Your doctor may recommend heart tests before starting this medication. If you have any questions or concerns, discuss them with your doctor. Regularly check your blood pressure and heart rate as instructed by your doctor. You will also need to undergo blood tests as directed by your doctor.
Interactions with Other Medications and Lab Tests
This medication may affect certain lab tests, so inform all your healthcare providers and lab personnel that you are taking this medication. Do not take antacids with this medication, as it may interact with the medication.
Mental Health and Mood Changes
New or worsening behavior and mood changes, such as altered thinking, anger, and hallucinations, have been reported with this medication. If you or a family member have a history of mental or mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar illness, or if a family member has committed suicide, inform your doctor. Immediately contact your doctor if you experience hallucinations, changes in behavior, or signs of mood changes, including depression, suicidal thoughts, nervousness, emotional instability, abnormal thinking, anxiety, or loss of interest in life.
Seizure Risk
This medication may increase the risk of seizures in some individuals, including those with a history of seizures. Discuss your risk with your doctor.
Serotonin Syndrome
A potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome may occur if you take this medication with certain other medications. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience agitation, balance changes, confusion, hallucinations, fever, abnormal heartbeat, flushing, muscle twitching or stiffness, seizures, shivering or shaking, excessive sweating, severe diarrhea, stomach upset, or vomiting, or severe headache.
Effects on Growth in Children and Adolescents
This medication may affect growth in children and adolescents. They may require regular growth checks. Different brands of this medication may be approved for use in different age groups, so consult your doctor before giving this medication to a child.
Alcohol Consumption
Discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor before drinking while taking this medication.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, consult your doctor to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Restlessness
- Tremor
- Hyperreflexia
- Rapid breathing
- Confusion
- Assaultiveness
- Hallucinations
- Panic states
- High fever
- Rhabdomyolysis
- Arrhythmias
- Hypertension or hypotension
- Circulatory collapse
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps
- Convulsions
- Coma
What to Do:
Call 911 or Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) immediately. Seek emergency medical attention.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) - risk of hypertensive crisis
- Serotonin Syndrome-inducing drugs (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, triptans) - risk of serotonin syndrome
Major Interactions
- Alkalinizing agents (e.g., sodium bicarbonate, acetazolamide) - increase amphetamine levels
- Acidifying agents (e.g., ascorbic acid, ammonium chloride) - decrease amphetamine levels
- Antihypertensives - may counteract effects
- Antipsychotics - may antagonize stimulant effects
- Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) - increased cardiovascular risk
- CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., quinidine, ritonavir, fluoxetine, paroxetine) - increase amphetamine exposure
Moderate Interactions
- Adrenergic blockers (e.g., beta-blockers) - may potentiate pressor effects
- Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum - may delay absorption
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) and H2-blockers - may increase amphetamine absorption
- Lithium - may inhibit stimulant effects
Minor Interactions
- Caffeine - additive stimulant effects
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Blood Pressure (BP) and Heart Rate (HR)
Rationale: Risk of cardiovascular adverse events (hypertension, tachycardia).
Timing: Prior to initiation.
Height and Weight
Rationale: Risk of growth suppression in pediatric patients.
Timing: Prior to initiation (pediatric).
Psychiatric History (including family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, depression)
Rationale: Risk of new or worsening psychiatric symptoms (mania, psychosis, aggression).
Timing: Prior to initiation.
Cardiac History (including family history of sudden death, arrhythmias)
Rationale: Risk of serious cardiovascular events.
Timing: Prior to initiation.
Routine Monitoring
Blood Pressure (BP) and Heart Rate (HR)
Frequency: At each visit or at least every 3-6 months.
Target: Within normal limits for age.
Action Threshold: Persistent elevation requiring intervention.
Height and Weight
Frequency: Every 3-6 months (pediatric).
Target: Normal growth trajectory.
Action Threshold: Significant growth deceleration or weight loss.
Psychiatric Status (mood, behavior, thought patterns)
Frequency: At each visit.
Target: Stable, absence of new or worsening symptoms.
Action Threshold: Emergence of psychotic symptoms, mania, severe anxiety, or aggression.
Abuse/Diversion Potential
Frequency: At each visit.
Target: No signs of misuse or diversion.
Action Threshold: Signs of drug-seeking behavior, escalating doses, or diversion.
Symptom Monitoring
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Syncope
- Palpitations
- New or worsening aggression
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Mania
- Severe anxiety
- Unexplained weight loss
- Growth deceleration (in children)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Generally not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus, including premature birth, low birth weight, and withdrawal symptoms in the neonate. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Limited data, but potential for congenital malformations cannot be ruled out.
Second Trimester:
Potential for growth restriction and premature birth.
Third Trimester:
Risk of neonatal withdrawal symptoms (e.g., agitation, feeding difficulties, tremor, hypertonia) if used near term.
Lactation
Amphetamines are excreted into breast milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants (e.g., irritability, poor feeding, sleep disturbances, growth suppression, cardiovascular effects), breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
Infant Risk:
High
Pediatric Use
Use in children under 3 years of age for ADHD is not recommended. Growth suppression (weight and/or height) has been reported with long-term use; monitor growth parameters regularly. Psychiatric adverse events (e.g., psychosis, mania) can occur.
Geriatric Use
Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased sensitivity to sympathomimetic effects, particularly cardiovascular effects. Consider lower initial doses and slower titration. Monitor for cardiovascular and psychiatric adverse events.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and dependence. Prescribers should assess the risk of abuse prior to prescribing and monitor for signs of abuse and dependence during therapy.
- Patients should be advised to take the medication in the morning to avoid insomnia. If a second dose is prescribed, it should be taken in the early afternoon.
- Monitor cardiovascular status (BP, HR) regularly, especially in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions. Avoid use in patients with symptomatic cardiovascular disease or moderate to severe hypertension.
- Monitor growth in pediatric patients. If growth suppression is observed, consider drug holidays or dose reduction.
- Educate patients and caregivers on the signs of psychiatric adverse events (e.g., new or worsening aggression, hallucinations, mania) and to report them immediately.
- Urinary pH significantly affects amphetamine excretion. Acidic urine increases excretion, while alkaline urine decreases it, potentially leading to higher drug levels.
Alternative Therapies
- Methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin, Concerta)
- Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
- Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)
- Non-stimulants (e.g., Atomoxetine, Guanfacine ER, Clonidine ER)
- Behavioral therapy (for ADHD)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Varies widely, typically $50-$200+ per 30 tablets
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 2 (generic), Tier 3 or 4 (brand)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. This medication is accompanied by a Medication Guide, which provides crucial information for patients. Please read this guide carefully and review it again whenever you receive a refill. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, consult your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.