Adderall

Adderall is often used as a treatment option for narcolepsy and for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Even though the drug is a stimulant, when it is used at ADHD doses levels, the drug calms the patient. The drug comes in tablet form, and it is normally taken twice a day.

Generic Name: Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine
Brand Names: Adderall, Adderall XR

What Is Adderall?

First, it is a prescription drug. Adderall is used to treat ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder . It can also be used for treating narcolepsy.

Adderall Uses

As mentioned above, Adderall can be used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. This is also known as ADHD. Those with ADHD often experience hyperactivity which means they have a hard time being still. They may also have issues paying attention, staying focused, as well as controlling their outward behavior. ADHD happens in children the most, but adults can have it too. The drug Adderall can also be used in treating narcolepsy. The condition known as narcolepsy causes a person to fall asleep suddenly and without warning. Those with narcolepsy symptoms may appear as if they are paralyzed as they sleep. They may also have hallucinations as they are falling asleep. Narcolepsy can cause people to fall asleep many times during a day. To learn more click Adderall Uses for important information on this medication.

How Adderall Works

Adderall is a stimulant, but it can also have a calming effect if the right dose is administered. Most stimulants, such as caffeine, are known to cause hyperactivity, for those who have ADHD. Adderall, on the other hand, produces a calming effect on the person. No one is sure how Adderall produces this relaxing and calming effect, but it is likely it affects certain chemicals that are in the brain. When used for narcolepsy, it is administered in higher doses to cause stimulation.

How and When to Take Adderall

Because Adderall is in tablet form it is easy to ingest. Normally, the drug is taken twice daily. In cases of narcolepsy, it may have to be taken more often. It can be taken with food or without.

Adderall side effects

There can be side effects with this drug. The most common include: dry mouth, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping (insomnia), weight loss, headache, and abdominal pain. Learn more here concerning Adderall side effects and about the specific ones associated with this medication.

Adderall drug interactions

It is possible that Adderall can interact with a variety of other medicines.
Click here for Adderall Interactions about these possible drug interactions.

Informing your doctor

You should tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these health issues before you take Adderall:

• Heart problems
• High blood pressure
• Mental illness, which can include bipolar disorder and/or any psychotic disorders
• Seizures
• Tourette syndrome
• Glaucoma
• Any allergies.
   

Overdose Precautions

It is possible to overdose. Those who have done so may experience overdose symptoms which can include: confusion, hyperactivity, muscle pain, fast breathing, fever, shakiness, or aggressiveness. If you overdose on this drug, seek medical help immediately.

Missing a Dose

Should you miss a dose of Adderall, take it when you recall unless you next dose is soon. If that happens, take the next dose at its regular time but do NOT take the missed dose with it. Do not double up on doses.

Is there a generic Adderall?

Yes. As of today, there are generic and brand-name forms that are licensed for sale.

Related ADHD information:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
ADHD Causes
ADHD Symptoms
ADHD Treatment