What Is Amphetamine?

Amphetamine is a prescription central nervous system (CNS) stimulant used primarily to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It is most commonly prescribed as mixed Amphetamine salts, which is the active ingredient in brand-name medications like Adderall, Adderall XR, and Mydayis.

Amphetamine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA, meaning it has accepted medical uses but carries a high potential for abuse and dependence. It requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider, and refills are not allowed — a new prescription is needed each time.

Brand Names and Formulations

Amphetamine is available under several brand names, each with different formulations:

• Adderall — Immediate-release (IR) tablets in strengths of 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg
• Adderall XR — Extended-release (XR) capsules in strengths of 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, and 30 mg
• Mydayis — Extended-release capsules with a triple-bead design for longer duration, available in 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 37.5 mg, and 50 mg
• Dyanavel XR — Extended-release oral suspension (liquid) at 2.5 mg/mL
• Adzenys XR-ODT — Extended-release orally disintegrating tablets in various strengths
• Evekeo — Immediate-release tablets in 5 mg and 10 mg
• Zenzedi — Dextroamphetamine immediate-release tablets

Generic versions of Amphetamine mixed salts (both IR and XR) are widely available and are manufactured by companies including Teva Pharmaceuticals, Sandoz, and others.

What Is Amphetamine Used For?

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

Amphetamine is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD in both children (age 3 and older for IR, age 6 and older for XR) and adults. It helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Learn more about how Amphetamine works.

Narcolepsy

Amphetamine is also FDA-approved for narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks. The stimulant properties of Amphetamine help promote wakefulness.

Off-Label Uses

Some providers prescribe Amphetamine off-label for treatment-resistant depression (as an augmentation strategy) and excessive daytime sleepiness not related to narcolepsy. These uses are not FDA-approved.

How Is Amphetamine Taken?

How you take Amphetamine depends on the formulation your doctor prescribes:

• Immediate-release (IR) tablets are usually taken 1 to 3 times daily. The first dose is typically taken in the morning, with additional doses every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
• Extended-release (XR) capsules are taken once daily in the morning. They can be swallowed whole or opened and sprinkled on applesauce (do not chew the beads).
• Oral suspensions (Dyanavel XR, Adzenys ER) are taken once daily and shaken well before each dose.

Important tips:

• Amphetamine can be taken with or without food
• Avoid taking doses late in the afternoon or evening — it can cause insomnia
• Do not crush or chew extended-release formulations
• Acidic foods and drinks (like orange juice and vitamin C supplements) can reduce the medication's effectiveness

For adults, the typical starting dose is 5–10 mg per day for IR formulations or 20 mg once daily for XR. Your doctor will adjust the dose based on your response. The maximum recommended dose varies by formulation but can go up to 40–60 mg per day.

Who Should Not Take Amphetamine?

Amphetamine is not appropriate for everyone. You should not take it if you have:

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

Always tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions and medications before starting Amphetamine. For a detailed list, read our guide on Amphetamine drug interactions.

How Much Does Amphetamine Cost?

The cost of Amphetamine depends on whether you're getting a brand-name or generic version and whether you have insurance:

• Generic Amphetamine mixed salts IR: $13–$60 for a 30-day supply with a discount coupon
• Generic Amphetamine mixed salts XR: $17–$80 for a 30-day supply with a coupon
• Without coupons or insurance: Cash prices can reach $200–$450
• Brand-name versions like Mydayis or Adzenys are significantly more expensive

Most commercial insurance plans and Medicare Part D cover generic Amphetamine on Tier 2. Prior authorization is often required, especially for adults. Some plans require you to try Methylphenidate first (step therapy).

You can save money using coupon cards from GoodRx, SingleCare, or RxSaver. For more details, see our guide on how to save money on Amphetamine.

Final Thoughts

Amphetamine is a well-established, FDA-approved medication that helps millions of people manage ADHD and narcolepsy. Understanding what it is, how it works, and how to take it properly can help you get the most out of your treatment.

If you're currently dealing with the Amphetamine shortage, use Medfinder to check which pharmacies near you have it in stock. And if you want to learn about the side effects of Amphetamine or alternatives if you can't fill your prescription, we've got you covered.