Adderall is a stimulant that contains both amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. These central nervous system (CNS) stimulants affect brain and nerve chemicals, influencing hyperactivity and impulse control. Adderall is used to treat:
Narcolepsy
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
The drug enhances the function of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine and primarily activates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to:
Pupil dilation
Elevated blood pressure and heart rate
Increased sweating
Adderall Uses
Adderall is a combination medicine used to treat ADHD. It works by altering the concentrations of certain natural compounds in the brain. This medication helps to:
Improve attention span
Remain focused on tasks
Manage behavioral issues
Adderall Side Effects
Common side effects:
Lack of appetite
Dry mouth
Trouble sleeping
Headache
Stomach pain
Constipation
Nausea
Weight loss
Anxiety
Dizziness
Serious side effects:
Irregular heartbeat
Depression
Hallucinations
Impaired and delusional thinking
Blurred vision
Allergic reactions
Insomnia
Fatigue
If you experience any serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
Precautions Needed for Adderall
Before taking Adderall, inform your doctor if you have any allergies or if you have any of the following medical conditions:
Kidney disease
Liver disease
Stomach ulcer
Abdominal pain
How to Use Adderall
Dosage: 1 to 3 times a day, as directed by your doctor.
Timing: Usually taken first thing in the morning. If additional doses are prescribed, take them 4-6 hours apart.
With or without food: Follow your doctor’s instructions.
If your next dose is soon, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
Do not double the dose to catch up.
Overdose
Taking more than the prescribed dose can lead to severe side effects and medical emergencies.
In case of overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions
Pregnancy:
Insufficient human studies are available. Animal studies suggest potential harm to the fetus.
Use only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breastfeeding:
Adderall can pass through breast milk and affect the infant.
Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Storage
Store at room temperature (68ºF to 77ºF or 20ºC to 25ºC).
Keep away from heat, air, and light.
Store in a safe place out of children’s reach.
Adderall vs Modafinil
Adderall
Modafinil
Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine are central nervous system stimulants that affect brain and nerve chemicals that cause hyperactivity and impulse control
Modafinil belongs to a group of drugs known as wakefulness inducing agents. It works by altering the levels of certain natural substances in the brain’s sleep and wakefulness control area.
Adderall is a combination medicine of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine and is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Modafinil alleviates severe sleepiness caused by narcolepsy and other sleep disorders, such as sleep paralysis (obstructive sleep apnea).
