Adderall
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription medication that comprises two stimulant drugs: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine (4) (5). It is predominantly prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (2) (4) (5). Adderall functions by elevating the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, aiding in the enhancement of focus and attention while diminishing hyperactivity and impulsive behavior (2) (4).
Dosage
Adderall's recommended dosage is contingent on the specific condition being treated as well as the patient's weight (1). For ADHD, the typical dose ranges from 5-60 mg daily, split into separate doses (1). For narcolepsy, the standard dose is between 5-60 mg daily, either split or given as a single morning dose (1).
Side Effects
Frequent side effects associated with Adderall are decreased appetite, insomnia, stomach discomfort, headache, and dry mouth (1) (2) (4) (5). Generally, these side effects are mild and resolve within a few days. However, in rare instances, Adderall may lead to severe side effects, such as chest pain, heart palpitations, and difficulty in breathing (1).
Interactions
Adderall has potential interactions with other medications, particularly other stimulants, increasing the possibility of side effects (5). It is advisable to consult a medical professional before mixing Adderall with other drugs or supplements.
Time of Day and With or Without Food
Adderall can be ingested at any time of the day and does not require food intake (1).
Human Studies
Human studies have extensively proven the efficacy of Adderall in treating ADHD and narcolepsy (2) (4) (5). It is generally well-received by patients, with side effects typically being mild and transient (1) (2) (4) (5).
In summary, Adderall is a prescription drug containing two stimulant medications: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It's primarily used for ADHD and narcolepsy treatment. The dosage recommendations depend on the condition and the individual's weight. Numerous human studies have confirmed Adderall's effectiveness in treating ADHD and narcolepsy. Most side effects are mild and short-lived, but the drug can interact with other medications, especially other stimulants.
Citations:
(1) https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2007/011522s040lbl.pdf
(2) https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/adderall-effects-on-body
(3) https://www.leehealth.org/health-and-wellness/healthy-news-blog/top-trends/does-adderall-make-you-smarter
(4) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326219
(5) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325646
(6) https://www.caron.org/blog/what-does-adderall-do-to-your-brain-it-depends