Quick Facts
Generic NameAmphetamine
Brand NameAdderall
Drug ClassStimulant
FDA Approved1996
Starting Dose5–10mg daily
Typical Range20–40mg/day
Max Dose60mg/day
Half-Life10–13 hours (mixed salts)
MetabolismCYP2D6 (partial), renal pH-dependent
Generic Available2002
What Is Adderall?
Amphetamine (brand name Adderall) is a central nervous system stimulant (Stimulant) prescribed for adhd, narcolepsy, and other psychiatric conditions. Mixed amphetamine salts (4 different amphetamine salts). Slightly higher efficacy than methylphenidate in some meta-analyses. Available as IR (Adderall) and XR (Adderall XR). Schedule II controlled substance. Highly effective but higher abuse potential.
At Psychiatry Telemed, amphetamine is prescribed and monitored by board-certified psychiatrists who understand the nuances of Stimulant pharmacology — selecting the right dose, managing side effects, monitoring drug interactions, and optimizing your treatment through consistent monthly medication management appointments.
Amphetamine (Adderall) — Stimulant medication for psychiatric care
ManufacturerTeva (originally Shire)
How Adderall Affects Neurotransmitters
How Adderall Works
Amphetamine increases dopamine and norepinephrine through multiple mechanisms: blocking reuptake transporters, promoting vesicular release, and inhibiting monoamine oxidase. This produces more robust catecholamine enhancement than methylphenidate's reuptake blockade alone.
Efficacy: Adderall vs. Comparators
Efficacy Comparison
Response & remission rates vs. comparators (Cipriani et al. meta-analysis)
Data from published meta-analyses. Individual response may vary.
Conditions Treated with Adderall
ADHD
FDA-approved for ADHD in children (3+) and adults. Mixed amphetamine salts (75% d-amphetamine, 25% l-amphetamine).
Learn About ADHDConsidering Adderall?
Board-certified psychiatrists can determine if amphetamine is right for you.
Dosage Information
| Indication | Starting Dose | Typical Range | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADHD | 5–10mg daily | 20–40mg/day | 60mg/day |
| Narcolepsy | 5–10mg daily | 20–40mg/day | 60mg/day |
Brain Regions Targeted by Adderall
Side Effects
Like all medications, amphetamine has potential side effects. Most are mild, occur early in treatment, and resolve within 1–2 weeks. Your psychiatrist monitors at every appointment.
Common Side Effects
Decreased AppetiteInsomniaDry MouthHeadacheAnxietyTachycardia
Less Common
Weight LossTremorMood SwingsIrritabilityGI Upset
Serious (Seek Immediate Help)
Cardiovascular EventsPsychosis/ManiaSeizuresGrowth SuppressionSudden Death (cardiac)Peripheral Vasculopathy
Side Effect Profile: Adderall vs. Class Average
Side Effect Profile
Incidence rates from FDA prescribing information vs. class average
Percentages from clinical trial data. Actual experience may differ.
⚠️ FDA Black Box Warning
High potential for abuse and dependence. Sudden death in patients with cardiac abnormalities. Avoid in patients with structural cardiac abnormalities.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
MAOIs (contraindicated — hypertensive crisis), urinary alkalinizers (increase absorption), acidifiers (decrease absorption)
CYP Metabolism
Partially metabolized by CYP2D6. Renal elimination is pH-dependent (acidic urine increases excretion).
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol during amphetamine treatment. Both affect the CNS, increasing sedation and impairing judgment.
Generic Versions & Cost
Generic amphetamine available since 2002. Approximate cost: $15–40/month. FDA-certified bioequivalent to brand-name Adderall.
Starting Adderall: What to Expect
First Weeks
Amphetamine is typically started at 5–10mg daily and increased gradually. Common initial side effects usually improve within 1–2 weeks. Full therapeutic benefit develops over 4–8 weeks.
When to Contact Your Psychiatrist
Contact your psychiatrist for: worsening depression/anxiety, thoughts of self-harm, unusual agitation, severe side effects, or any concerning changes.
Stopping Adderall Safely
Never stop amphetamine abruptly. Your psychiatrist will develop a gradual tapering schedule to minimize discontinuation effects.
Timeline: When Adderall Starts Working
Timeline to Effectiveness
Expected improvement trajectory over the first 8 weeks
Based on clinical trial data. Full therapeutic effects may take 6–8 weeks.
Get Adderall from a Board-Certified Psychiatrist
At Psychiatry Telemed, amphetamine is prescribed following comprehensive evaluation. All Florida via HIPAA-compliant telepsychiatry. 1–3 days. $200 eval, $100 follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prescribed for adhd, narcolepsy.
Typically 2–4 weeks for initial improvement, 4–8 weeks for full benefit.
Common: decreased appetite, insomnia, dry mouth, headache, anxiety. Most resolve within 1–2 weeks.
No. Not habit-forming but should not be stopped abruptly — gradual tapering recommended.
Mixed amphetamine salts (4 different amphetamine salts). Slightly higher efficacy than methylphenidate in some meta-analyses. Available as IR (Adderall) and XR (Adderall XR). Schedule II controlled su
Alcohol should be avoided — increases sedation, impairs judgment, and may worsen symptoms.
Resources
Medical Disclaimer: Educational only. Consult a psychiatrist before starting/stopping medication. Crisis: call 988 or 911.
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