What is Adderall?

WHAT IS ADDERALL?

Adderall is a stimulant that is commonly prescribed to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Adderall mainly works by increasing chemicals in the brain that drive alertness and motivation. For people with ADHD that are prescribed Adderall, it can increase improve focus and memory while reducing restlessness and fidgeting.

The standard doses of Adderall prescribed to someone with ADHD are between 5-30mg in capsules or pills. Adderall can come in extended release (XR) capsules which take effect over 8-12 hours or immediate release (IR) pills or capsules with effects felt over 4-6hours. Adderall XR and IR as well as Vyvanse all have the same active ingredient and act similarly on the body.

Recreationally, Adderall is usually consumed as pills or sometimes crushed up and snorted. Adderall’s effects are felt more rapidly and strongly when snorted. For this reason, caution should be taken with dosing since less Adderall will be necessary to achieve typical effects.

When used by people without ADHD, Adderall may promote feelings of euphoria and improve energy leading to common use in social situations and in combination with alcohol.

Side effects of Adderall include headaches, insomnia, hostility, aggression, anxiety, sadness, and mood swings. Adderall also often results in a reduction in appetite and nausea.

Adderall has potential for addiction especially for someone who is not prescribed it. Adderall dependence increases the potential to experience the side effects above. It is possible to overdose on Adderall with doses ranging from 1.5-25 mg per kilogram of body weight.

Adderall that did not come from YOUR pharmacy could be contaminated with unwanted substances - anything from caffeine powder to fentanyl. If it didn’t come from YOUR pharmacy, test your drugs!