What is Adderall?

Adderall treats attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Adderall contains a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine are central nervous system stimulants that affect chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control.

Warnings

Adderall may be habit-forming, and this medicine is a drug of abuse. Tell your doctor if you have had problems with drug or alcohol abuse.

Stimulants have caused stroke, heart attack, and sudden death in people with high blood pressure, heart disease, or a heart defect.

It is not recommended to take this medicine if you have recently taken an MAO inhibitor, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine.

When combined with depression, mental illness, or bipolar disorder, Adderall may cause psychosis (unusual thoughts or behaviors).

How should I take Adderall?

Take Adderall exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or longer than recommended.

Adderall may be habit-forming. Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

In the event of a missed dose, what should I do?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but not late in the day. Skip the missed dose if it is almost evening. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Can I overdose if I take too much?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of Adderall could be fatal.

Overdose symptoms may include restlessness, tremor, muscle twitches, rapid breathing, confusion, hallucinations, panic, aggressiveness, muscle pain or weakness, and dark-colored urine. There is a possibility that depression and tiredness will follow these symptoms. Symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, uneven heartbeats, fainting, seizure (convulsions), and coma.

Avoidance tips

This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

Avoid drinking fruit juices or taking vitamin C at the same time you take Adderall. These can make your body absorb less of the medicine.