Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) Uses

Adderall is a prescription medication that contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine are central nervous system stimulants. Adderall is FDA-approved to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (excessive daytime sleepiness). Adderall is a schedule-II controlled substance.

There may be other uses of this medicine — your healthcare provider or pharmacist can give you more drug information and provide medical advice.

Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) Mechanism of Action

Adderall is an amphetamine stimulant medicine that works by changing the levels of natural substances in the brain responsible for hyperactivity and impulse control.

Amphetamines block the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, causing an increase in the release of these brain chemicals into the central nervous system.

Even though Adderall's exact mechanism for ADHD treatment is unknown, it is believed that increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine improves focus and reduces impulsivity.

Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) Doses

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD):

• Adults: The typical initial dose of Adderall is 5 mg by mouth once or twice daily; the daily dosage may be raised in increments of 5 mg at weekly intervals as indicated by a healthcare professional until optimal response is obtained. 
• Pediatric:
  • Children from 3 to 5 years of age: The initial dose is 2.5 mg by mouth daily; the daily dosage may be raised in increments of 2.5 mg at weekly intervals as indicated by a healthcare professional until optimal response is obtained. 
  • Children 6 years of age and older: The initial dose is 5 mg by mouth once or twice daily; the daily dosage may be raised in increments of 5 mg at weekly intervals as indicated by a healthcare professional until optimal response is obtained. 
• For adults and children 6 years or older, the recommended maximum daily dose is 40 mg. Only in rare cases will it be necessary to exceed 40 mg per day.

Narcolepsy:

• Adults: The typical dose is 5 to 60 mg per day in divided doses.
• Pediatric:
  • Children from 6 to 12 years of age: The initial dose is 5 mg by mouth once daily; the daily dosage may be raised in increments of 5 mg at weekly intervals as indicated by a healthcare professional until optimal response is obtained.
  • Children 12 years of age and older: The initial dose is 10 mg by mouth once daily; daily dosage may be raised in increments of 10 mg at weekly intervals as indicated by a healthcare professional until optimal response is obtained.