Description
Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance (U.S.) containing a 3:1 ratio of amphetamine salts:
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Dextroamphetamine saccharate
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Dextroamphetamine sulfate
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Amphetamine aspartate monohydrate
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Amphetamine sulfate
FDA-Approved Uses:
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🧠 ADHD Treatment: Helps improve focus/impulse control in diagnosed patients
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😴 Narcolepsy Management: Reduces daytime sleep attacks
Legal Status:
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⚖️ High abuse potential: Illegal to possess without prescription (federal felony)
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🌍 Internationally restricted: Class B drug (UK), Schedule I/II in most countries
⚠️ Critical Safety Warnings
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BLACK BOX WARNING (FDA):
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High risk of addiction, heart attacks, stroke, and sudden death
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Misuse may cause psychosis or aggression
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Contraindications:
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Heart disease/hypertension
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Glaucoma or hyperthyroidism
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History of substance abuse
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MAOI antidepressant use (fatal interaction)
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How It Works
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📈 Boosts dopamine & norepinephrine in the brain
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Effects: Increased alertness, focus, and wakefulness
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⏱️ Duration:
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Instant-Release: 4-6 hours
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XR (Extended-Release): 10-12 hours
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Medical Protocol
✅ Legitimate Use Requires:
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Formal ADHD testing (neuropsychological evaluation)
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Ongoing prescriber monitoring (monthly visits + PDMP checks)
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Cardiac screening (ECG if high-risk)
Dosing:
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ADHD: Start 5mg daily, max 40mg/day
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Narcolepsy: Start 10mg daily, max 60mg/day
🚨 Dangers of Non-Medical Use
Short-Term Risks | Long-Term Risks |
---|---|
• Cardiac arrhythmia | ❌ Permanent heart damage |
• Psychosis/paranoia | ❌ Brain structure changes |
• Seizures | ❌ Severe depression |
• Hyperthermia | ❌ Addiction (23% develop SUD) |
Source: NIH National Institute on Drug Abuse (2024)
💊 Counterfeit Alert
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77% of illicit “Adderall” contains methamphetamine or fentanyl (DEA)
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1 fake pill can deliver a lethal fentanyl dose (2mg)
Safer Alternatives
For ADHD:
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Non-stimulants: Atomoxetine (Strattera), Guanfacine ER
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Therapies: CBT, neurofeedback training
For Narcolepsy: -
Modafinil (Schedule IV, lower abuse risk)
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Sodium oxybate (Xyrem)
Reviews
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