Adderall: What It's For, How to Take & Side Effects

Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant containing a combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. While widely prescribed in the United States for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, it is a strictly regulated controlled substance.

Because this medication has a high potential for abuse and dependence, its distribution is carefully monitored. It should only be taken under direct medical supervision and is often used alongside other therapeutic approaches.

The drug works by increasing activity levels in the central nervous system to improve focus and attention. Due to these effects, it is sometimes used illicitly by students aiming to boost their performance on exams.

What it is for

Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant indicated for the treatment of narcolepsy and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It is a federally controlled substance in the United States regulated by the FDA.

How to take

The method for taking Adderall depends on the specific formulation, which comes in either immediate-release or extended-release forms. Dosages vary based on the patient's age and the severity of their ADHD or narcolepsy symptoms.

Immediate-release Adderall is typically prescribed two to three times daily. For extended-release tablets (Adderall XR), doctors usually recommend taking the medication once a day, typically in the morning. All dosages must be individualized and determined by a healthcare provider.

It is important to avoid taking Adderall at night to prevent sleep disturbances. Consuming the medication late in the day can keep you awake and trigger other unwanted symptoms.

Always discuss your treatment plan with a doctor to ensure this medication is the right choice for your specific needs.

Possible side effects

Since Adderall belongs to the amphetamine class, it effectively helps individuals stay awake and maintain focus for longer periods.

Some of the most common side effects include:

• Cardiac effects: Palpitations, rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), increased blood pressure, and in rare cases, sudden cardiac events.

• Central nervous system effects: Overstimulation, restlessness, anxiety, nervousness, irritability, euphoria, dysphoria, depression, tremors, tics, dizziness, aggression, anger, and rapid or disorganized speech.

• Gastrointestinal effects: Dry mouth, unpleasant taste, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.

Other potential issues include blurred vision, changes in libido, decreased appetite, weight loss, difficulty sleeping, insomnia, impotence, and urinary tract infections.

Adderall can also trigger severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis that require immediate medical attention. If this occurs, stop treatment and go to the nearest emergency room, especially if you experience difficulty breathing, coughing, chest pain, swelling of the mouth, tongue, or face, a sensation of the throat closing, or hives.

How to identify an Adderall overdose

Long-term use of Adderall can lead to dependence, which increases the risk of an overdose. Symptoms of an amphetamine overdose include restlessness, hallucinations, panic, confusion, aggression, pale skin, rapid breathing, tremors, excessive sweating, high blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and coma.

Who should not use

Adderall is contraindicated for people with hypersensitivity to its ingredients, advanced arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, moderate to severe hypertension, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, agitated states, or a history of drug abuse.

It is also not recommended for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, or children under 6 years of age.

Additionally, always inform your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking.