Stimulant — amphetamine
Adderall
Mixed amphetamine salts (immediate release)
DEA Schedule II FDA approved adults
Pediatric ages 3+
How it works
Releases dopamine and norepinephrine from presynaptic neurons and inhibits their reuptake.
At-a-glance
- Onset of effect
- 0.5–1 h
- Typical duration of effect
- 4–6 h
- Half-life
- ~9–11 (d-amphetamine), ~11–14 (l-amphetamine) in adults
- Formulations
- Oral tablet (IR)
- Adult dose range
- 5–40 mg/day, typically split into 2–3 doses
FDA max: 40 mg/day (per FDA label) - Pediatric dose range
- 2.5–40 mg/day depending on age
Common side effects
- Decreased appetite
- Insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Irritability
- Increased heart rate
- Headache
Important warnings
- High abuse potential (Schedule II)
- Risk of cardiovascular events; assess cardiac history before starting
- May exacerbate psychiatric conditions
Source
Reference data is sourced from the current FDA prescribing information at DailyMed. Dose ranges, approved ages, and warnings change over time — always check the current label and consult your prescriber.