Adderall XR is an effective central nervous system stimulant that affects the brain and nerves responsible for hyperactivity and impulse control. It is a combination drug that helps treat adults and children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Adderall Vs. Adderall XR: Both the drugs are made up of the same combination, amphetamine, and dextroamphetamine. The main difference is that Adderall is an immediate-release version, while Adderall XR is an extended-release form. It means the active ingredients (I-amphetamine and d-amphetamine) are more gradually released from Adderall XR compared to Adderall.
How long does Adderall XR last? Adderall XR is detectable in the blood of an individual for up to 46 hours (approximate two days), in urine for 72 to 96 hours (almost three to four days), in hair for about three months, and in saliva for a maximum of 20 hours to 50 hours after last use.
Adderall Generic
Adderall (IR) oral tablet or Adderall XR oral capsule comes in generic forms. The generic name of this effective medicine in both the tablet and capsule form is amphetamine/dextroamphetamine salts. Generic drugs usually come at a lesser rate than the brand-name version; generic and brand-name drugs can be available in different shapes and strengths.
Adderall XR dosageAdderall XR dosage for childrenIn children with ADHD belonging to the age group of 6 to 12 years, either switching from another medication or starting treatment for the first time, start with 10 mg one time in the morning every day; you may need to adjust the daily doses in increments of 5 mg to 10 mg (Adderall XR 15 mg or Adderall XR 20 mg) at weekly intervals.
When a pediatrician's judgment, a lower initial dose is appropriate, the patient may also begin the treatment with a quantity of 5 mg one time in the morning every day. The maximum amount of Adderall XR for children (ages 6 to 12 years) is 30 mg per day; doses more than 30 mg/day (Adderall XR 30 mg) have not been assigned for children.
Adderall XR dosage for adolescentsThe prescribed initial dosage for adolescents (ages 13 years to 17 years) with ADHD who are either taking this drug for treatment for the first time or switching to Adderall XR from another medication is 10 mg per day. The doctor or pediatrician may ask you to take an increased amount of up to 20 mg per day after a week if the ADHD symptoms are not adequately controlled.
Adderall XR dosage for adultsIn adults with ADHD, taking Adderall XR for the first time or switching to this form from any other medication, the prescribed dose is 20 mg per day.
What are the side effects of Adderall XR?Allergic reaction: An allergic reaction that is not common in everyone taking Adderall XR may occur, and the symptoms may include hives, breathing conditions, swelling of various parts of the face, or throat.
Serotonin Syndrome or Toxicity: Take medical help if any symptoms occur, such as hallucinations, agitation, muscle stiffness with fever and sweating, shivering, twitching, nausea, vomiting with diarrhea, or loss of coordination.
Severe side effects of Adderall XR:
- a seizure (or convulsions); changes in your vision; muscle twitches (or tics);
- signs of psychosis- aggression, new behavior problems, paranoia, hostility, hallucinations with seeing or listening to things that are not even real;
- symptoms of heart problems- chest pain together with breathing problems, feeling of passing out; or
- signs of circulation problems- pain, numbness, unexplained wounds, cold feeling, or changes in skin color (red, pale, or blue appearance) in your toes or fingers
- weight loss;
- nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite;
- rapid heart rate;
- mood changes, feeling irritable or nervous;
- sleep problems (insomnia);
- dizziness, headache; or
- dry mouth
