Adderall

Introduction

Adderall is a commonly used ADHD medication. It belongs to a group of medicines called stimulants. Stimulants are the most widely prescribed drugs for ADHD (also known as ADD), and they are effective for many kids with ADHD.

What is Adderall?

Adderall is a medication that has been used to treat ADHD since 1996. Like all psychostimulants, it works by improving communication between certain brain parts.

Adderall is different from other common stimulant brands. This psychostimulant contains amphetamines, while brand names like Concerta and Ritalin are methylphenidate psychostimulants.

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Adderall Side Effects

Adderall has the same potential side effects as other stimulant medications. The most common are decreased appetite and difficulty falling asleep. Other less common side effects include stomach pain and nausea. Side effects may be more pronounced with the long-acting form called Adderall XR, especially if taken on an empty stomach.

Other side effects are less common. These include:

• Headache
• Irritability and moodiness
• Nervousness
• Weightloss 

If your child experiences side effects, your doctor may recommend adjusting the dose or changing the medication. This is especially the case if your child experiences rare side effects. (Review a list of signs that your child's medication needs to be adjusted.

Dosage and indications for taking Adderall

Adderall is a short-acting medication that works for 4-6 hours. There is also the extended-release preparation with the name of Adderall XR. Time-release means that it is released into the body slowly throughout the day. Its effect in children can last from 6 to 10 hours.

Adderall is available in seven strengths: 5 mg; 7.5mg; 10mg; 12.5mg; 15mg; 20mg and 30mg. Boys usually take it twice a day. Then, they usually go to the nurse's office to receive their second dose when they are at school.

Adderall XR comes in five strengths: 5 mg; 10mg; 15mg; 20mg and 30mg. The extended-release version usually stays in the body for up to 10 hours. Therefore, some guys only need a dose once a day.

The duration of its effect depends on the particular metabolism of each individual. Some need to take a short-acting "booster" dose toward the end of the day. Taking a booster dose is not unusual for high school students who study at night.

Adderall XR comes in capsule form and can be swallowed whole. The capsule can also be opened, and the contents sprinkled on food, such as yogurt.

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Common Parent Questions About Adderall

Adderall is a drug that has generated controversy in recent years. If you're considering it for your child's treatment, you may have questions about how it works and how it might affect your child. These are the answers to common questions parents ask about Adderall.

What is the generic name for Adderall?

 Adderall is a combination of two stimulants: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Its generic name is dextroamphetamine-amphetamine, but it may be abbreviated in the prescription to "mixed salts of amphetamine" or MAS.

Is Adderall addictive? Is there a danger of abuse?

Adderall is more present in pop culture than other ADHD medications. It has been the subject of recent books and movies claiming that it can be addictive or increase the risk of abuse.

Research shows that Adderall is not addictive or increases the risk of abuse, as long as the dose prescribed by the doctor is taken. Even those who claim that those who take Adderall at the prescribed dosage are in less danger of abusing the drug.

However, the fact that amphetamines improve attention and concentration in all people, not just those with ADHD, increases the likelihood of being misused. For example, high school and university students who use them to study. They may also be used by people who have other addictions.

 Like all stimulant medications, Adderall is a controlled substance. That means there are restrictions to reduce its potential for abuse and addiction. For example, prescribers can only do so once a month.

What happens if my child's sleep is affected by taking Adderall? 

It's common for kids with ADHD to have trouble sleeping, whether taking medication or not. However, stimulants can delay sleep in about half of the kids who take them. The average delay time is 40 minutes, so it is important to have good routines to go to bed. If you are experiencing this or any other side effect, talk to the doctor who prescribes your child's medication. He will be able to adjust the dose, the time he takes it, or change the medicine.

 You may also benefit from creating a bedtime routine that lays out steps. For example, read an expert's tip for helping kids with ADHD wind down at night.

Can Adderall help with anxiety?

Kids with ADHD often have some degree of anxiety. Adderall is not an anxiety medication. Stimulant medications can make anxiety worse in a small percentage of kids with ADHD. However, reducing ADHD symptoms can make some kids feel less anxious. This is because the child experiences less stress at school when she concentrates better.

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How can I tell if Adderall is right for my child? 

The intensity of ADHD symptoms is not the same for everyone, nor do kids face the same problems. However, if an ADHD medication works well, there should be a significant reduction in the most important symptoms your child is experiencing. For example, you might notice that your child can better think things through before acting. Or, you may find that your child doesn't interrupt people as often.

One way to determine how well the medication is working is by completing an ADHD rating scale before and after your child starts taking it. You (and perhaps your child's teacher) may have completed these questionnaires as part of your child's ADHD evaluation. Doing them again will let you know how much your child's behavior has changed.

You can also use this printable medication log to track how well your child's ADHD medication is working.

What if Adderall doesn't work for my child?

If Adderall doesn't seem to be working for your child, talk to your doctor. A change in the dose or the time it is taken may help. Or the doctor may recommend trying another stimulant or switching to a non-stimulant medication. You can also try behavioral therapy, whether your child is on medication.

How do I decide if my child should use Adderall?

Treating your child's ADHD with medication is a personal choice that is often difficult to make. Discuss treatment options with your child's doctor and any concerns you have. If you're considering medication, ask yourself these questions.

If you decide not to use medication or if it doesn't work for your child, there are alternatives you can investigate. For example, behavioral therapy is an approach that benefits many kids with ADHD. What matters is finding ways to manage ADHD symptoms so your child can learn, grow, and enjoy life.

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What are the long-term effects of heavy Adderall use?

People who abuse a large amount of Adderall over a long period may experience:

• sleeping difficulties
• inability to concentrate
• Lack of motivation
• Depression
• Irritability
• Lethargy
• Fatigue
• Aggression
• thoughts of suicide
• Humor changes
• Paranoia
• hallucinations
• Anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Heart disease
• Weightloss
• Headaches
• tremors
• Constipation