Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine (Adderall)

Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine, commonly known as Adderall, is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called stimulants. It is primarily used to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.

Adderall works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control in individuals with ADHD. For those with narcolepsy, it helps reduce excessive daytime sleepiness.

Have you found yourself wondering “Do I have ADHD?” If so, take our free online ADHD test to quickly assess whether you may be experiencing symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD symptoms). This ADHD quiz is designed to help you understand if further evaluation by a mental health professional may be beneficial for efficient ADHD treatment. Start our ADHD test now to gain insights into your focus, impulsivity, and attention levels.

Adderall increases the levels of certain brain chemicals to improve focus, attention, and impulse control, commonly used to treat ADHD.

Adderall can stay in your system (blood) for 2 to 3 days, depending on factors like metabolism, dosage, and frequency of use.

To start your journey towards getting help, use our booking widget to schedule a session with one of our psychiatric prescribers. After choosing a prescriber, you can book either an in-person or online appointment. During this session, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your feelings and symptoms. Your psychiatric prescriber will then customize your treatment plan to address your unique needs. If a prescription is necessary, such as Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine (Adderall), you can have it filled at your local pharmacy.

Take our free online ADHD test to quickly assess whether you may be experiencing symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

Note: Adderall is a controlled substance, that is regulated by the DEA, and requires periodic in person visits.

Whether Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine (Adderall) is covered by insurance typically depends on the specific insurance plan. Most health insurance plans, including those that cover prescription medications, usually include Adderall in their formulary (a list of medications covered by the plan). However, coverage can vary based on factors such as:

1. Insurance Provider and Plan: Some plans may cover the generic version (Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine) more readily than the brand-name Adderall, while others may require prior authorization or place restrictions on coverage.
2. Tiered Formularies: Many insurance plans categorize medications into tiers, with lower-tier medications having lower co-pays. Adderall may fall under a higher tier, which could increase out-of-pocket costs.
3. Pre-Authorization: Some insurance providers may require a prior authorization from your healthcare provider, especially for higher doses or extended-release versions of the medication.
4. Age and Usage Restrictions: Some plans may have restrictions on who can get Adderall (e.g., only for those diagnosed with ADHD or narcolepsy).

It’s always best to check with your insurance provider directly to determine the specific coverage details for Adderall.

Cost of Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine (Adderall) Without Insurance

The cost of Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine (Adderall) without insurance can vary widely depending on factors such as the dosage, formulation (immediate-release vs. extended-release), and the pharmacy. Below are some general estimates for cash prices without insurance:

1. Generic Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine:

• Immediate-release (IR):
  • A 30-day supply can range from $20 to $100, depending on the dosage (5mg, 10mg, 20mg, etc.).
• Extended-release (XR):
  • A 30-day supply can range from $80 to $150 or more.

2. Brand-Name Adderall:

• Immediate-release (IR):
  • A 30-day supply of the brand-name version can range from $200 to $400 or higher, depending on the dosage.
• Extended-release (XR):
  • A 30-day supply of Adderall XR can range from $250 to $400 or more, depending on the dosage.

Prices can vary based on location and pharmacy, and discounts or coupons (like from GoodRx or pharmacy discount programs) may help reduce the cost. It’s always a good idea to check with multiple pharmacies and explore discount programs to find the best price.

If you’re planning to become pregnant, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider to ensure the best management of your medications. People with ADHD who are considering pregnancy face significant decisions regarding treatment. There is limited information available about the risks of amphetamine medications, such as those prescribed for ADHD, during pregnancy. However, misuse of amphetamines (taking without a prescription or exceeding the prescribed dose) has been linked to premature birth, low birth weight, and withdrawal symptoms in newborns. On the other hand, untreated ADHD may increase the risk of substance use. It’s crucial to discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your provider and care team.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, amphetamines are not recommended while breastfeeding, as they may concentrate in breast milk and negatively affect the infant.

Dextroamphetamine and amphetamine are available in two forms: an immediate-release tablet (Adderall) and an extended-release capsule (Adderall XR, Mydayis), both taken orally.

• The immediate-release tablet is typically taken 2 to 3 times a day, spaced 4 to 6 hours apart, with or without food.
• The extended-release capsule (Adderall XR) is usually taken once in the morning, also with or without food. Mydayis, another extended-release option, should be taken upon waking and consistently either with or without food.

It’s important to avoid taking these medications in the late afternoon or evening, as they can interfere with sleep. Always follow the instructions on your prescription label, and consult your provider or pharmacist if you have any questions. Take the medication exactly as prescribed.

Extended-release capsules should be swallowed whole - do not chew or crush them. If swallowing the capsule is difficult, you can open it and sprinkle the contents on a spoonful of applesauce. This mixture should be swallowed immediately without chewing and should not be stored for later use. Do not split the contents of the capsule into multiple doses.

Your provider will likely start you on a low dose and gradually increase it, usually not more than once a week. They may also periodically ask you to stop taking the medication to determine if it is still necessary.

Since each medication is absorbed differently, one product cannot be directly substituted for another. If you switch from one to another, your provider will adjust the dosage accordingly.

It’s important to avoid alcohol and illegal drugs while taking this medication, as they can reduce its effectiveness and worsen your condition. Additionally, they may increase the risk of adverse side effects, particularly those affecting the heart.

Common side effects of Adderall may include an upset stomach, loss of appetite, insomnia, dry mouth, and mild anxiety. In rare cases, it is important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any significant changes such as increased blood pressure or heart rate, shortness of breath, fatigue, severe anxiety, panic attacks, mania, hallucinations, paranoia, or delusions. Other rare symptoms include severe muscle pain, weakness, signs of dehydration, dark urine, prolonged or painful erections, or changes in feeling or color in your fingers or toes.

It is important to note that misuse of amphetamine medications can lead to serious side effects, including sudden death or severe cardiovascular events. Individuals with a heart defect, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or other heart disorders should avoid using amphetamine medications.

While you may begin to notice some positive effects from amphetamine medications within a few days, it can take several weeks to experience the full benefits. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dosage gradually to determine the most effective dose for you.