Is Adderall safe?

Adderall^® (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) is a prescription medication that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is also used to treat narcolepsy. Because Adderall is an amphetamine and is commonly abused, there are special rules for prescribing Adderall.

As mentioned above, Adderall is licensed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD for short. In addition to experiencing hyperactivity (having trouble sitting still), people with ADHD have problems paying attention, focusing, and controlling their behavior. While most people think of ADHD as a problem in children, it can also occur in adults.

Adderall is also licensed for narcolepsy treatment. Narcolepsy is a condition that involves falling unsleep uncontrollably and at unusual times. People who have narcolepsy symptoms often appear paralyzed when they are sleeping and have hallucinations when falling asleep. People who have narcolepsy often fall asleep several times during the day.

How Does Adderall Work?

Adderall is a stimulant, although it can have the opposite effects from what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants (like caffeine) can cause hyperactivity, when used at the doses for ADHD, Adderall has a calming effect. While the exact way Adderall produces a calming effect is not known, it is known that Adderall affects chemicals in the brain. In general, Adderall is used at higher, more stimulating doses when used for narcolepsy.

Side Effects of Adderall

Sudden deaths: See FDA Alert.
Abuse potential: See Warning.
Worsening mental illness (psychosis): Adderall may make symptoms of existing mental illness worse.
Possible decreased growth and weight loss: Adderall may decrease growth and cause weight loss. Children who take it for a long time should have their growth and body weight measured regularly.
Increased tics: Adderall may worsen tics and Tourette’s disorder.
Pregnancy: Tell your healthcare professional if you are or may be pregnant because your baby may be premature or have a low birth weight. Also, your baby may show withdrawal symptoms, such as agitation and drowsiness.
Breast feeding: Do not breast feed while taking Adderall because it can pass into your breast milk.
Other side effects include loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, dry mouth, headaches, and mood changes.
Tell your healthcare professional about any medical conditions you have in addition to those already mentioned in this information sheet.

Is Adderall Safe ?

USES: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)