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Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine

Brand names: Adderall, Adderall XR, Mydayis

Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine (Adderall) is a stimulant that improves focus and self-control in ADHD.

Brand namesAdderall, Adderall XR, Mydayis
Type of medicineStimulant (ADHD medicine)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It's a controlled substance with high risk of misuse.

What it's used for

  • ADHD
  • Narcolepsy

How to take it

  • Take it in the morning to avoid trouble sleeping.
  • Extended-release capsules can be opened and sprinkled on applesauce; don't chew the beads.
  • Keep it locked up and never share it.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Less appetite and weight loss
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Dry mouth
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Anxiety or irritability
Call 911Chest pain, fainting, or shortness of breath
Call 911Weakness on one side or trouble speaking
Call your provider todaySeeing or hearing things, new paranoia, or mania
Call your provider todayFingers or toes that turn pale, blue, or painful (circulation problems)
Call 911Agitation, fever, sweating, muscle twitching or stiffness, fast heartbeat, and confusion (possible serotonin syndrome)

Warnings

  • Boxed warning: stimulants have a high risk of misuse and addiction. Keep them locked up and never share them.
  • Your provider will check growth in children, plus heart rate and blood pressure.
  • Tell your provider about heart problems or a family history of sudden death.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Never take within 14 days of an MAOI.
  • Decongestants, caffeine, and other stimulants add to heart and blood pressure effects.
  • Antidepressants and other serotonin medicines raise the risk of serotonin syndrome (amphetamines).
  • Acidic foods and drinks, like fruit juice or vitamin C, can lower absorption.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider about benefits and risks.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.