Adderall

What is Adderall?

• Adderall is a prescription medicine that contains two active ingredients:

  • Amphetamine

  • Dextroamphetamine

• These belong to a class of drugs called stimulants, which affect chemicals in the brain that help with impulse control and attention.

Medical Uses (Benefits)

Doctors may prescribe Adderall for:

1. ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)

   • Helps improve focus, attention span, and control impulsive behavior.

2. Narcolepsy

   • A sleep disorder that causes sudden daytime sleepiness.

3. Occasionally: Off-label for treatment-resistant depression or severe fatigue (but less common).

Forms and Strengths

• Comes in tablet and extended-release capsule (Adderall XR) forms.

• Strengths range from 20 mg to 30 mg.

• In the U.S., it’s a Schedule II controlled substance — meaning it has accepted medical uses but also a high potential for abuse.

Possible Benefits (When Prescribed Properly)

• Better focus, learning, and academic/work performance (for ADHD patients).

• Reduced daytime sleepiness in narcolepsy.

• Improved ability to complete tasks and control impulsive behavior.

Risks & Side Effects

• Common side effects:

  • Loss of appetite

  • Trouble sleeping

  • Increased heart rate

  • Dry mouth, anxiety, headache

• Serious risks:

  • Dependence & addiction (if misused)

  • Heart problems (high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat)

  • Mental health issues (paranoia, agitation, hallucinations in some cases)

• Overdose danger: Can cause seizures, heart attack, or even death.

Misuse Problem

• In the U.S., some students and professionals misuse Adderall as a “study drug” to stay awake or improve concentration.

• Misuse is dangerous and illegal without a prescription.

Conclusion

Adderall can be very helpful for people who need it for medical conditions like ADHD or narcolepsy.
But if used without medical supervision, it can lead to addiction, serious health risks, and legal trouble.