Adderall IR: A Complete Overview

Adderall IR is a prescription stimulant medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy — it contains a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts and works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain.

Whether you've just been prescribed Adderall IR, you're researching it as a treatment option, or you're a caregiver looking for clear information, this guide covers everything you need to know in 2026.

What Is Adderall IR?

Adderall IR (immediate-release) is a brand-name medication made by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries. It contains a mixture of four amphetamine salts — approximately 75% dextroamphetamine and 25% levoamphetamine. The generic version is called Mixed Amphetamine Salts or Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine.

Key facts:

• Drug class: CNS stimulant / amphetamine
• DEA schedule: Schedule II controlled substance (high potential for abuse)
• Generic available: Yes, from multiple manufacturers
• FDA-approved uses: ADHD and narcolepsy
• Available strengths: 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg tablets

Adderall IR is different from Adderall XR (extended-release), which releases medication gradually throughout the day and is taken once daily. Adderall IR works faster but doesn't last as long, so it's typically taken 2-3 times per day. For a detailed comparison of how it works, see our mechanism of action guide.

What Is Adderall IR Used For?

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

Adderall IR is one of the most widely prescribed medications for ADHD in both children (ages 3+) and adults. It helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control by increasing the availability of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.

People with ADHD often describe the effect as being able to "quiet the noise" in their head and focus on one task at a time. It doesn't cure ADHD — it manages symptoms while the medication is active.

Narcolepsy

Adderall IR is also FDA-approved to treat narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks. The stimulant properties help patients stay awake and alert during the day.

How Is Adderall IR Taken?

Adderall IR is taken by mouth as a tablet. Here's what you need to know about taking it correctly:

• Typical dose range: 5 mg to 40 mg per day, divided into 2-3 doses
• First dose: Usually taken first thing in the morning upon waking
• Additional doses: Spaced 4-6 hours apart
• With or without food: You can take it either way, though food may help reduce stomach upset
• Avoid late doses: Taking Adderall IR in the late afternoon or evening can cause insomnia
• Tablets can be split but should not be crushed or chewed

Your doctor will usually start you at a low dose and increase gradually until you find the right balance of symptom relief and manageable side effects. Never change your dose without talking to your doctor.

Who Should Not Take Adderall IR?

Adderall IR is not safe for everyone. You should not take it if you have:

• A known allergy to amphetamines
• Taken an MAO inhibitor (MAOI) within the past 14 days
• Advanced hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis)
• Symptomatic cardiovascular disease
• Moderate to severe high blood pressure
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
• Glaucoma
• A history of drug abuse
• Agitated states or severe anxiety

Special caution is needed if you're pregnant (may cause premature birth or low birth weight), nursing (excreted in breast milk), or have a history of mental health conditions. Always share your full medical history with your prescribing doctor. For a full list of medications that interact with Adderall IR, see our drug interactions guide.

What Are the Side Effects?

Common side effects include decreased appetite, insomnia, dry mouth, increased heart rate, anxiety, headache, and weight loss. Serious but rare side effects include cardiovascular events, psychosis, and seizures. For a complete breakdown, read our Adderall IR side effects guide.

How Much Does Adderall IR Cost?

The cost of Adderall IR depends on whether you're getting the brand-name or generic version, and whether you have insurance.

• Brand-name Adderall IR: $220 to $400+ per month (30-day supply) without insurance
• Generic Amphetamine Salts IR: $30 to $80 per month at retail cash price; as low as $15 to $70 per month with discount coupons from GoodRx or similar services
• With insurance: Generic Amphetamine Salts IR is covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare Part D and Medicaid. Your copay will depend on your plan.

Because the generic is so widely available and affordable, most patients pay significantly less than the brand-name price. For more ways to save, check out our guide to coupons, discounts, and patient assistance programs.

Final Thoughts

Adderall IR is an effective, well-established medication for ADHD and narcolepsy. Understanding what it is, how to take it, and what to watch for helps you get the most from your treatment while staying safe.

If you're having trouble finding Adderall IR at your pharmacy due to the ongoing shortage, Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy with it in stock.