Amphetamine-Dextroamphetamine (Adderall)

Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine, or mixed amphetamine salts, is a combination of stimulant medications that increase certain brain chemicals involved in attention, impulse control, and wakefulness. It is available in multiple brand name formulations, including Adderall, Adderall XR, Evekeo, Evekeo ODT, Adzenys ER (discontinued), Adzenys XR-ODT, Mydayis, Dyanavel XR, and the Xelstrym.

Adderall is a brand name for mixed amphetamine salts. It is an immediate release tablet usually taken once or several times per day for ADHD, and certain strengths are also approved for narcolepsy.

Adderall XR is an extended release capsule that contains the same active ingredient as Adderall but releases it gradually over the day. It is typically taken once in the morning to be effective during school or work hours.

Evekeo is a brand of amphetamine-dextroamphetamine sulfate used to treat ADHD and, in some cases, narcolepsy. It is an immediate release tablet that allows flexible dosing.

Evekeo ODT is an orally disintegrating tablet form of amphetamine-dextroamphetamine sulfate that dissolves on the tongue. It offers a non-swallowing option for people who have difficulty taking traditional tablets.

Adzenys ER was an extended release oral suspension that contains amphetamine, but it has been discontinued. It was approved for ADHD in certain age groups and taken once daily.

Adzenys XR-ODT is an extended release orally disintegrating tablet that contains amphetamine. It is used for ADHD treatment and is designed to be taken once each morning, dissolving in the mouth without water.

Mydayis is a long-acting mixed amphetamine salts capsule for ADHD. It is formulated to last longer than many other stimulants, often providing symptom control into the evening for some individuals.

Dyanavel XR is an extended release amphetamine oral suspension or chewable tablet for ADHD. It is taken once daily. Both may be easier to take for children and adults who struggle to swallow pills. The liquid typically makes it easier to slowly find the right dose.

XELSTRYM (dextroamphetamine) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant prescription medicine used for the treatment of ADHD in adults and children 6 years of age and older. It is an extended-release transdermal patch, sometimes referred to as “ADHD patch,” applied to the skin. It is applied once daily for a specified number of hours and can be removed to help control duration of stimulant effect. It may be considered for people who prefer not to take oral medication or who benefit from flexible daily wear times.

The ADHD patch refers to a transdermal formulation of a stimulant medication that delivers treatment through the skin rather than by mouth. The most commonly used ADHD patch is the Xelstrym patch, which contains dextroamphetamine. It is applied to the skin once daily for a set number of hours and removed afterward. Transdermal options may be considered for individuals who have difficulty swallowing pills, experience gastrointestinal side effects with oral medications, or benefit from flexible daily wear time. A psychiatric clinician can help determine whether a patch formulation is appropriate for your treatment plan.

Yes. Adderall and other amphetamine-dextroamphetamine products are central nervous system stimulants and are classified as Schedule II controlled substances in the United States. This means they have recognized medical uses and also a potential for misuse and dependence, so they are tightly regulated and should be used only as prescribed.

Common side effects can include decreased appetite, weight loss, trouble falling or staying asleep, dry mouth, headache, stomach upset, increased heart rate, and increased blood pressure. Some people notice irritability or mood changes, especially as the medication wears off. If side effects are troublesome or severe, contact your clinician to discuss dose adjustments or alternative treatments.

Weight loss may occur with Adderall and related stimulants because they often reduce appetite. Clinicians usually monitor weight and growth, especially in children and adolescents. Strategies such as adjusting meal timing, choosing calorie dense foods, or altering the dose may be recommended if weight changes become a concern.

Both are very similar. Evekeo contains levo- and dextro-amphetamine sulfate, while Adderall products contain amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts. Both are stimulants used for ADHD and narcolepsy. Differences in formulation, dosing flexibility, and available strengths often guide a clinician’s choice between Evekeo and Adderall.

Both Mydayis, Adderall XR, and Adderall contain mixed amphetamine salts, but Mydayis is engineered for the longest duration of action. Some individuals may benefit from all-day symptom management with Mydayis, while others do well with shorter-acting options like Adderall or Adderall XR. Your clinician will consider your symptom pattern and daily routine when recommending Mydayis vs Adderall.

Mydayis is a long-acting mixed amphetamine salts product, while Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a prodrug that the body converts to dextroamphetamine. Both are once-daily stimulants for ADHD. Vyvanse may provide a smoother onset and offset for some people, while Mydayis may offer very long coverage in others.

Dyanavel XR is a liquid or chewable extended release amphetamine, and Adderall is available as tablets and capsules. For children or adults who cannot swallow pills or need very fine dose adjustments, Dyanavel XR may be preferred. If someone prefers a tablet and has stable dosing needs, Adderall or Adderall XR may be used instead.

Dyanavel XR delivers amphetamine through a liquid suspension that can be dose adjusted in small increments, or through a chewable tablet. Vyvanse is a capsule or chewable tablet known as a pro-drug that is activated in the body to become dexamfetamine. Both are once daily medications for ADHD, but they differ in formulation and how the drug is released and metabolized. Your clinician can help determine whether Dyanavel vs Vyvanse is a better fit.

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a long-acting stimulant known as a pro-drug that is converted in the body to its active form, dexamfetamine. Adderall contains mixed amphetamine salts and is available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Vyvanse may have a more gradual onset and offset for some individuals, while Adderall may provide more flexible dosing options. Your clinician will help determine which medication aligns with your treatment needs, daily schedule, and past response to stimulants.

Concerta contains methylphenidate, while Adderall contains mixed amphetamine salts. Although both are stimulant medications for ADHD, they work through different pathways in the brain. Concerta is an extended-release formulation designed to last throughout the day and may be considered when a methylphenidate-based option is preferred. Your clinician will consider factors such as symptom pattern, potential side effects, and past medication trials when discussing Concerta vs Adderall.

Ritalin (methylphenidate) is a stimulant with a shorter duration of action than many amphetamine-based medications. It works differently from Adderall and may be prescribed in immediate-release or extended-release forms. Some individuals respond better to methylphenidate-based medications, while others respond more effectively to amphetamine-based treatments. Methylphenidate-based medications appear to have fewer long term risks compared to amphetamine-based treatments. Your clinician will help guide the choice based on your clinical history and therapeutic goals.

Alternative treatments may include other stimulant medications such as Vyvanse, Mydayis, Adzenys XR-ODT, Dexedrine, or methylphenidate-based medications like Concerta, Ritalin, Focalin, or Daytrana. Non-stimulant options include atomoxetine, guanfacine ER, and clonidine ER. Behavioral interventions, therapy, and organizational support may also be part of a comprehensive treatment plan. A psychiatric clinician can discuss alternatives that best fit your individual circumstances.

Adderall and other amphetamine-based stimulants have generally not been first-line treatments during pregnancy due to potential risks, though guidance about medications in pregnancy can change over time. Some individuals may continue treatment if the benefits outweigh the risks, but this should be carefully evaluated and monitored by a clinician. Always speak with your prescribing provider before starting, stopping, or continuing stimulant medication during pregnancy. It’s important to discuss the risks and benefits of any medication for both the mother and baby with your healthcare provider.

Stimulant medications have a potential for misuse and dependence, particularly when taken in higher doses than prescribed or without a prescription. When used appropriately under medical supervision for ADHD or narcolepsy, many individuals take these medications safely for extended periods. Clinicians monitor for signs of misuse, diversion, and substance use disorders as part of routine care.

Try to avoid alcohol while on Adderall. Mixing alcohol and Adderall can have dangerous, unpredictable consequences. Combining alcohol with stimulants is strongly discouraged. Alcohol can worsen side effects such as dizziness and judgment changes, and stimulants can make it more difficult to recognize how intoxicated you are, leading to dangerous and harmful behavior.

As of publication date, brand-name Adderall oral tablets typically cost $1,261.49 for 100 tablets. Pricing for the generic version, amphetamine/dextroamphetamine, ranges from about $40 to $830 for 100 tablets. Prices vary depending on the dose. Actual pharmacy pricing may differ, and insurance coverage can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.

If you have insurance, your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your supporting diagnosis and plan type (e.g., commercial, Medicare, Medicaid) and may include a copay or coinsurance.

Stimulants can increase heart rate and blood pressure. People with certain heart conditions or significant cardiovascular risk factors may require additional evaluation, monitoring, or an alternative treatment. Always tell your clinician about any history of heart disease, fainting, chest pain, or family history of sudden cardiac death before starting stimulant medication.