Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine IR: Everything You Need to Know

Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR is a prescription stimulant medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy — it's the generic version of the brand-name drug Adderall.

If you've been prescribed this medication or are curious about what it is, this guide covers the basics: what it's used for, how it works, how to take it, what it costs, and what to watch out for in 2026.

What Is Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine IR?

Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR (also called mixed amphetamine salts) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA. It contains a combination of four amphetamine salts that work together to increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain.

Key facts:

• Brand name: Adderall (immediate-release), Adderall XR (extended-release), Mydayis (extended-release)
• Drug class: CNS stimulant
• Original manufacturer: Shire Pharmaceuticals (now Takeda). Primary generic manufacturer: Teva Pharmaceutical Industries.
• FDA approval: First approved for ADHD; also approved for narcolepsy
• Generic available: Yes — generic amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR has been available for years and is significantly cheaper than brand-name Adderall
• Schedule: Schedule II (high potential for abuse and dependence)

The "IR" stands for immediate-release, meaning the medication is released all at once when you take it. This is different from extended-release (XR) formulations, which release the medication gradually over a longer period. For a deeper dive into how the medication works in your body, see our article on how amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR works.

What Is It Used For?

Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR is FDA-approved for two conditions:

1. ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

This is the most common use. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects focus, impulse control, and executive function. Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR helps by boosting dopamine and norepinephrine — brain chemicals that play key roles in attention and self-regulation. It's approved for adults and children aged 3 and older.

2. Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks. Stimulants like amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR help people with narcolepsy stay awake during the day.

Some doctors also prescribe it off-label for conditions like treatment-resistant depression (as an add-on therapy) and excessive daytime sleepiness from other causes, though these aren't FDA-approved uses.

How Is It Taken?

Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR comes as a tablet taken by mouth. Here's what you need to know about dosing:

• Available strengths: 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg tablets
• Typical dose for ADHD: 5 mg to 40 mg per day, divided into 1 to 3 doses
• Typical dose for narcolepsy: Up to 60 mg per day
• Timing: First dose upon waking, with additional doses spaced 4 to 6 hours apart. Avoid taking it in the late afternoon or evening to prevent insomnia.
• Food: Can be taken with or without food. Note that acidic foods and beverages (like citrus juice) can reduce how well the medication is absorbed.

Your doctor will usually start you on a low dose and increase gradually until you find the right balance of effectiveness and tolerable side effects. Never adjust your dose without talking to your doctor.

Who Should Not Take It?

Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR is not safe for everyone. You should not take this medication if you have:

• A known allergy to amphetamine products
• Used an MAO inhibitor (MAOI) in the last 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
• An agitated state

The medication also carries a boxed warning — the FDA's most serious warning — about its high potential for abuse and dependence, and the risk of sudden death and serious heart problems. Your doctor will assess your cardiovascular health and history before prescribing. For a full list of potential side effects, read our side effects guide.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR varies widely depending on whether you're getting the brand name or generic, and whether you have insurance:

• Generic with a discount coupon: As low as $14 to $50 for a 30-day supply (prices from GoodRx and similar platforms)
• Generic without a coupon: Around $50 at average retail price
• Brand-name Adderall IR: $300 to $815 for a 30-day supply without insurance (though brand Adderall is largely discontinued in favor of generics)
• With insurance: Generic is covered by most commercial plans and Medicare Part D as a preferred generic. Your copay will depend on your plan.

If cost is a barrier, check out our guide on how to save money on amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR, including coupon cards, patient assistance programs, and other options.

Availability in 2026

Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR has been on the FDA's drug shortage list since October 2022. While supply has improved — the DEA increased production quotas by 25% in late 2025 — intermittent shortages still occur, particularly for certain dosage strengths.

If you're having trouble finding it, Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy with it in stock.

Final Thoughts

Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR is a well-established, effective medication for ADHD and narcolepsy. It's been around for decades, is available as an affordable generic, and works well for many people. The key is working closely with your doctor to find the right dose, understanding the potential side effects, and knowing how to navigate availability issues in 2026.

If you have a prescription and need help finding it, Medfinder makes it easy to search for pharmacies that have amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR in stock near you.