Adderall

Adderall, with generic name “mixed amphetamine salts”, was initially introduced in the form of instant-release tablets in 1997. The combination of racemic amphetamine salts and dextroamphetamine comprise the active ingredients of Adderall. Gradual-release or extended-release formulations of the medication are now available.

The dextroamphetamine and amphetamine components of Adderall are both stimulants. Thus, this particular drug is prescribed to: enhance the attention span of the patient; reduces distractibility in children 3 years old and above; lessens aggression, impulsivity, and stubbornness; and enhance the patient’s ability to follow instructions and directions.

Adderall is formulated for use in the treatment of “attention deficit hyperactive disorder” or ADHD, as well as narcolepsy. The medication is also used to address severe types of depression. When it was initially prescribed around the 1920’s, it was considered as an “anorectic”, with Obetrol as the brand name. However, such use is very rare nowadays. Adderall is considered a “schedule II controlled substance” – that is, it is known to be prone to abuse.

Adderall XR or the extended-release formulation is made up of the following active ingredients and their respective proportions: 0.25 dextroamphetamine saccharate, 0.25 dextroamphetamine sulfate, 0.25 dextro/levo-amphetamine aspartate amphetamine, and 0.25 dectro/levo amphetamine sulfate. The metabolism of these 4 ingredients are said to be at various rates. Hence, there is a slower build-up and gradual decline in its effects as compared to those composed only of one salt.

Adderall is available both in extended release and immediate release capsules. Doses for the two types come in any of the following: 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 20mg, 25mg, and 30 mg capsules.

One good thing about Adderall is that patients get positive results when it is taken either once or two times in a day. This medication may work on patients whose other treatment drugs, like Ritalin, have not served them well. The effects of the medication may be experienced after only a few dosages. However, the entire effect of the drug ay takes some time, and may necessitate dosage alterations. Majority of patients who are taking Adderall get the optimum results between 3 and 4 weeks.

Amphetamines are at a high risk for abuse. Adderall abuse happens when patients are administered with the medication for a long time, causing drug dependence. Currently, the danger of getting hold of amphetamines for use other than its actual therapeutic use is prevalent. People should be made aware that amphetamines are likely to have an effect on a patient’s ability to do potentially dangerous activities, like operating machineries. Also, the drug is excreted in breast milk, so breastfeeding and taking amphetamines do not mix.

The following Adderall side effects may be experienced by some patients: heart palpitations, elevated blood pressure, restlessness, insomnia, depression, psychotic episodes, headache, overstimulation, euphoria, tremor, diarrhea, mouth dryness, constipation, hives, changes in libido, gastrointestinal disturbances, impotence, and anorexia.

Adderall should be taken upon awakening. Additional doses, if prescribed, should be ingested at 4-6 hour intervals. Doses should not be taken during the late evenings as these can affect the patient’s sleep.

For patients who are taking a single dose everyday, take a missed dose if there is still about 6 hours remaining prior bedtime. A missed dose remembered the following day should be skipped and regular schedule should be followed. Double doses do not make up a missed dose.

For those who are taking more than one dose everyday, the missed dose may be taken right away if it’s within one hour of the original schedule. Otherwise, the dose may be skipped.

Adderall is a powerful stimulant. This being so, it should be used within the recommendations of the doctor, or else, serious health issues are bound to occur.