Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine (Adderall) is a stimulant for ADHD and narcolepsy. Learn about uses, dosing, costs, and availability in 2026.
Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine is a prescription central nervous system (CNS) stimulant used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy in adults and children.
If you've heard of Adderall, you already know this medication — Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine is the generic name for the same drug. It's one of the most widely prescribed ADHD medications in the United States, and it's been the subject of a prolonged national shortage that has affected millions of patients. Here's everything you need to know about it in 2026.
Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine is a combination of four amphetamine salts (75% dextroamphetamine and 25% levoamphetamine). It belongs to the amphetamine class of CNS stimulants. Here are the key facts:
For a detailed explanation of how the medication works in your brain, see our guide: How Does Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine Work?
This is the primary use. Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine is FDA-approved for ADHD in adults and children aged 3 and older. It helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine activity in the brain.
The immediate-release formulation is also approved for narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks.
Some doctors may prescribe Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine off-label for treatment-resistant depression (as an augmentation strategy), binge eating disorder, or excessive daytime sleepiness from other causes. These uses are not FDA-approved.
The medication comes in three main forms:
Available in 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg, 15mg, 20mg, and 30mg strengths. Taken 2-3 times per day, with doses spaced 4-6 hours apart. The first dose is taken in the morning upon waking. Typical daily dose range: 5-40mg.
Available in 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 20mg, 25mg, and 30mg strengths. Taken once daily in the morning. Capsules can be swallowed whole or opened and sprinkled on applesauce (do not chew the beads). Typical daily dose range: 10-30mg.
Available in 12.5mg, 25mg, 37.5mg, and 50mg strengths. Designed for up to 16 hours of coverage. Taken once daily in the morning.
General tips:
This medication is not safe for everyone. Do not take it if you have:
Your doctor should also evaluate your cardiovascular health before prescribing this medication. The FDA boxed warning notes the risk of sudden death, heart attack, and stroke, particularly in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.
Cost varies significantly depending on whether you're buying brand or generic, and whether you have insurance:
Most insurance plans cover generic Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine as a preferred generic, meaning your copay will be on the lowest tier. Brand versions may require prior authorization.
If you're paying out of pocket, coupon cards from GoodRx and SingleCare can significantly reduce costs. For a complete breakdown of savings options, check out our guide to saving money on Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine.
Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine remains one of the most effective treatments for ADHD, backed by decades of clinical use. While the ongoing shortage has made it harder to access, supply is gradually improving in 2026. If you need help finding a pharmacy with it in stock, Medfinder can help you search in seconds.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
Try Medfinder Concierge FreeMedfinder's mission is to ensure every patient gets access to the medications they need. We believe this begins with trustworthy information. Our core values guide everything we do, including the standards that shape the accuracy, transparency, and quality of our content. We’re committed to delivering information that’s evidence-based, regularly updated, and easy to understand. For more details on our editorial process, see here.
%2C%20Color%3DOriginal.png)
