Amphetamine-Dextroamphetamine Extended Release

Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine extended release is approved for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Although it is not entirely clear how the medication ease works, it is known to affect chemicals in the brain to cause a calming effect in people with ADHD. Potential side effects includes headaches, abdominal pain, and weight loss. The drug should be taken once daily in the morning to avoid sleeping problems.

What Is Amphetamine-Dextroamphetamine Extended Release?

Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine extended release (Adderall XR®) is a prescription medication that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Because this medicine is an amphetamine and is commonly abused, there are special rules for prescribing it (see Adderall: A Controlled Substance).
 
(Click What Is Amphetamine-Dextroamphetamine Extended Release Used For? for more information on uses of amphetamine-dextroamphetamine extended release, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Amphetamine-Dextroamphetamine Extended Release?

Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine extended release is manufactured by Shire US, Inc.
 

How Does Amphetamine-Dextroamphetamine Extended Release Work?

Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine extended release is a stimulant, although it has effects that are opposite from what would be expected of a stimulant.
 While stimulants (like caffeine) can cause hyperactivity, this drug can have a calming effect. While the exact way the medication produces a calming effect is not known, it is known that amphetamine-dextroamphetamine extended release affects chemicals in the brain.
 
Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine extended release is a medication that is designed to dissolve slowly. Because the medication is released slowly, it can be taken just once a day, eliminating the need to take medication at school or work.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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