Adderall: What It Is, Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects

Updated at 2025-05-10

Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) is a central nervous system stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. (Learn more on DoseMed)

Indications and Uses

Adderall is indicated for:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): For the treatment of ADHD in both children and adults.
Narcolepsy: To help manage the symptoms of narcolepsy, such as excessive daytime sleepiness.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Adderall depends on the patient's age, medical condition, and response to the treatment:

Adults: The usual starting dose is 5 mg once or twice daily, which can be adjusted based on the patient's response.
Pediatric Patients (ages 6-17): The recommended starting dose is 5 mg once or twice daily, which can be adjusted as necessary.

Contraindications

Adderall is contraindicated in patients with:

Hyperthyroidism or known sensitivity to sympathomimetic drugs.
Glaucoma or a history of glaucoma.
Severe anxiety, tension, or agitation.

Warnings and Precautions

Serious side effects of Adderall may include cardiovascular events, mental health issues, and growth suppression in children. Patients should be monitored for:

Cardiovascular Health: Monitor for signs of increased heart rate, blood pressure, or chest pain.
Mental Health: Watch for symptoms of anxiety, depression, or aggression.

Adverse Reactions

Common adverse reactions (≥1%) include:

Insomnia
Dry mouth
Decreased appetite

Drug Interactions

Notable drug interactions with Adderall include:

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Serious and potentially fatal reactions can occur if Adderall is taken with MAOIs.
Antihypertensive Drugs: The stimulant effect of Adderall may reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs.

Patient Counseling Information

Patients should be advised to:

Take Adderall exactly as prescribed and avoid increasing the dose without medical advice.
Avoid taking the medication close to bedtime to prevent insomnia.

Conclusion

Adderall is an effective medication for managing ADHD and narcolepsy, but patients should be mindful of the potential side effects and interactions. Regular follow-ups and monitoring are important for maintaining safety and effectiveness.

For more detailed information, please refer to the official drug label on DailyMed