Medication Information:
Amphetamine mixed salts, extended release amphetamine mixed salts (Generic) - Adderall, Adderall XR (Brand)

Classification: Psycho-stimulant
Common Usage: Adderall is indicated for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and in children ages three and older it is also indicated for narcolepsy.

Extended-release Adderall (XR) is indicated for treatment of ADHD only in adults and in children ages six and older.

For ADHD, these medications should be prescribed as part of a multimodal treatment plan with close physician supervision.

Major Side Effects: The most common side effects in patients using these medications are anorexia (loss of appetite) and insomnia. Other possible side effects include nausea, dizziness, heart palpitations, headache, changes in blood pressure or pulse and rash. Administration of Adderall or Adderall XR may exacerbate symptoms of behavior disturbances and though disorder in psychotic patients. As with other psychostimulants indicated for ADHD, there is a potential for precipitating motor or vocal tics in Tourette's disorder.

These medications should be taken with caution in people who have a history of drug dependence or alcoholism. Abuse of Adderall or Adderall XR may lead to tolerance and dependence. If the drug is withdrawn suddenly after prolonged high-dosage administration, extreme fatigue or depression may occur.

This is not a complete list of all known or potential adverse effects.  Notify your prescriber or pharmacist of any symptoms that have started since you began taking this medication, changing its dose, or adding or changing other medication or diet.  Take care when performing any task (for example, driving or operating machinery) that requires your attention until you have experience with this drug and are confident you can perform the task safely.

Interactions with Other Medications: Acidifying agents such as ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and fruit juices may lower the absorption of these medications. Conversely, agents that are alkalinizing such as sodium bicarbonate (Alka Seltzer) increase absorption.

Adderall/Adderall XR may increase the activity of tricyclic or other antidepressants, particularly the tricyclic desipramine (Norpramin) and the monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressants. Use of these medications during or within 14 days of MAOI antidepressant is contraindicated. Adderall/Adderall XR may counteract the sedating effects of antihistamines, and may antagonize the hypotensive effects of blood pressure drugs.

The drug chlorpromazine (Thorazine) inhibits the central stimulant effects of these medications. Other drugs that may affect the actions, absorption or side effects of Adderall/Adderall XR include haloperidol (Haldol), lithium (Eskalith and others) and phenytoin (Dilantin).

This is not a complete list of all known or potential drug interactions.  To help prevent problems, always make sure your pharmacist and all prescribers know all the medications you are taking.  This includes over-the-counter drugs and any dietary or herbal supplements or medications.

Common Dosages:  ADHD: in adults, Adderall XR should be started at 10 mg/day (taken in the morning) and increased on a weekly basis by 5-10 mg/day to maximum dose of 30 mg/day.

For children, Adderall and Adderall XR should be started in small doses and may be increased gradually in weekly increments. The dose should be adjusted individually and the lowest effective dose should be administered.

The usual starting dose of Adderall (regular/immediate release) for children ages 3-5 years old is 2.5 mg daily with increases of 2.5 mg on a weekly basis until the desired effect is achieved. In children 6-years old or older, the recommended starting dose is 5 mg one or twice daily with increases of 5 mg on a weekly basis until the desired effect is achieved. The first dose should be given in the morning, with additional doses (1 or 2) administered at intervals of four to six hours. Daily dosage above 40 mg is not generally recommended.

The recommended starting dose of Adderall XR in children six years or older is 10 mg/day given in a single dose in the morning. The dose can be increased at weekly intervals by 5 mg or 10 mg; usually the maximum daily dose does not exceed 30 mg; Afternoon doses should be avoided due to the potential for insomnia.

Adderall XR capsules should be taken whole, or the capsule opened and the entire contents sprinkled on a small amount of apple sauce. The dose of a single capsule should not be divided.

Narcolepsy: The usual dose of Adderall (regular/immediate release) is 5 to 60 mg/day in divided doses taken every 4-6 hours, depending on the patient's response. In adults, the suggested starting dose is 10 mg/day, taken in the morning. The dose may be raised by 10 mg on a weekly basis to a maximum of 60 mg/day.

In patients aged 6 to 12 years, the suggested starting dose is 5 mg daily. The dose may be raised by 5 mg on a weekly basis until optimal response is achieved. In patients 12 years or older, the suggested starting dose is 10 mg daily. The dose may be raised by 10 mg on a weekly basis until optimal response is achieved.

Identification: ADDERALL: All Adderall tablets are double-scored and imprinted with "AD" on one side and their mg amount on the other. The 5-mg tablets are round and blue; 7.5 mg tablets are oval and blue; 10-mg tablets are round and blue; 12.5-mg tablets are round and orange; 15-mg tablets are oval and orange; 20-mg tablets are round and orange; 30-mg tablets are round and orange.

ADDERALL XR: All capsules are imprinted with "Adderall XR" and their mg amount. The 5-mg capsules are clear/blue; 10-mg capsules are blue/blue; 15-mg capsules are blue/white; 20-mg capsules are orange/orange; 25-mg capsules are orange/white; 30-mg capsules are natural/orange.

Storage: Store this medication at normal room temperature (59° F to 86° F) in a tightly closed, light- and moisture-resistant container.  If you have difficulty opening child-resistant containers, your pharmacist can provide a container that is easier to open.  Keep the medication out of direct sunlight and avoid storing it in a warm or humid area - such as the bathroom or kitchen - to prevent deterioration.  To prevent accidental poisoning, keep all medications out of the reach of children.  Do not take an expired medication.  Do not transfer medication from one container to another.  Carefully discard discontinued medication where children cannot find it.

This product is a Schedule II controlled substance.

A SERVICE OF…. Manisses Communications Group, Inc.

Note: These guidelines are for general information only. For more specific information, consult your physician or pharmacist.