Adderall(Amphetamine)

Description

🔹 General Overview

• Brand Name: Adderall

• Generic Name: Mixed amphetamine salts (amphetamine aspartate monohydrate, amphetamine sulfate, dextroamphetamine saccharate, and dextroamphetamine sulfate)

• Drug Class: Central Nervous System (CNS) stimulant

• Controlled Substance: Schedule II (U.S.) — High potential for abuse and dependence

🔹 Composition (What Adderall Is Made Of)

Adderall contains four salts of amphetamine, providing a mix of equal parts dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine. This combination provides both immediate and sustained stimulant effects.

Amphetamine salts in Adderall:

1. Dextroamphetamine sulfate

2. Amphetamine sulfate

3. Dextroamphetamine saccharate

4. Amphetamine aspartate monohydrate

Together, they provide a balanced 75% dextroamphetamine and 25% levoamphetamine ratio.

🔹 Available Formulations

🔹 Mechanism of Action

Adderall stimulates the CNS by:

• Increasing the release of dopamine and norepinephrine

• Inhibiting their reuptake in the brain

This enhances alertness, attention, energy levels, and impulse control—key for treating ADHD.

🔹 Uses

✅ FDA-Approved Uses:

1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – in children (age 3+) and adults

2. Narcolepsy – a sleep disorder causing excessive daytime sleepiness

🔹 Off-Label Uses (with caution):

• Treatment-resistant depression (in combination with other meds)

• Cognitive enhancement (non-medical use, which is not recommended or legal)

🔹 Common Side Effects

• Insomnia

• Decreased appetite

• Dry mouth

• Headache

• Increased heart rate or blood pressure

• Anxiety or nervousness

• Weight loss

🔹 Serious Side Effects

• Cardiovascular risks: Hypertension, palpitations, chest pain, risk of sudden cardiac events (especially in people with heart problems)

• Psychiatric effects: Psychosis, aggression, mania, especially in those with underlying disorders

• Dependency and abuse potential

• Growth suppression in children with long-term use

🔹 Warnings and Precautions

• Black Box Warning (U.S.): High potential for abuse and dependence.

• Avoid use in individuals with:

  • Heart disease

  • Hyperthyroidism

  • Glaucoma

  • History of drug abuse

  • Severe anxiety or agitation

• Interactions with MAO inhibitors, antidepressants, and other stimulants can be dangerous.

🔹 Withdrawal Symptoms

• Fatigue

• Depression

• Sleep disturbances

• Intense craving

Withdrawal is more common after long-term high-dose use and should be managed medically.

🔹 Legal and Regulatory Status

• Schedule II (U.S.): Strictly controlled due to abuse potential.

• Requires a new prescription each month (no refills).

• Not legally available without a valid prescription.

🔹 Alternatives

• Stimulants: Ritalin (methylphenidate), Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine), Concerta

• Non-stimulants: Atomoxetine (Strattera), Guanfacine, Clonidine

🔄 Summary Table

Let me know if you’d like a comparison with other ADHD meds (like Vyvanse or Ritalin), or guidance on dosing, tapering, or managing side effects.