Dyanavel XR Is a Prescription Stimulant Used to Treat ADHD

Dyanavel XR is a brand-name, extended-release Amphetamine medication FDA-approved to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in patients aged 6 years and older.

If you've been prescribed Dyanavel XR — or you're researching ADHD treatment options — this guide covers everything you need to know: what it is, how it works, how to take it, and what it costs in 2026.

What Is Dyanavel XR?

Here are the key facts:

• Brand name: Dyanavel XR
• Generic name: Amphetamine
• Drug class: CNS (central nervous system) stimulant
• Manufacturer: Tris Pharma
• FDA approval: Approved for ADHD in patients aged 6 and older
• DEA schedule: Schedule II (CII) — this means it has a high potential for abuse and is tightly regulated
• Generic available: No. As of 2026, there is no generic version of Dyanavel XR

What makes Dyanavel XR unique is that it was originally the only extended-release Amphetamine available as a liquid suspension — a major advantage for patients (especially children) who have difficulty swallowing pills. Tris Pharma has since also released extended-release tablets.

Available Dosage Forms

Dyanavel XR comes in two forms:

• Extended-release oral suspension (liquid): 2.5 mg/mL. Must be shaken vigorously before each dose.
• Extended-release tablets: Available in 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, and 20 mg strengths. The 5 mg tablet is functionally scored and can be split in half.

Important: Do not substitute Dyanavel XR for other Amphetamine products on a milligram-per-milligram basis. The extended-release formulation is designed to release medication differently than other products.

What Is Dyanavel XR Used For?

Dyanavel XR is FDA-approved for one indication:

• ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) in patients aged 6 years and older

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior. It affects both children and adults. Stimulant medications like Dyanavel XR are considered first-line treatment for ADHD.

While Amphetamine products are sometimes used off-label for conditions like narcolepsy or treatment-resistant depression, Dyanavel XR is specifically approved and studied for ADHD.

How Is Dyanavel XR Taken?

Dyanavel XR is taken once daily in the morning. Here's what you need to know:

• Tablets: Swallow whole. The 5 mg tablet can be divided into equal halves if needed.
• Oral suspension: Shake vigorously before measuring your dose. Use the measuring device provided — don't use a household spoon.
• Timing: Take it in the morning to avoid insomnia. Taking it later in the day can make it hard to fall asleep.
• With or without food: Dyanavel XR can be taken with or without food, but be aware that acidic foods and drinks (like orange juice) may reduce its effectiveness.
• Dose range: The typical dose ranges from 2.5 mg to 20 mg once daily. Your doctor will start at a low dose and adjust based on your response.

Who Should Not Take Dyanavel XR?

Dyanavel XR is not appropriate for everyone. You should NOT take it if you have:

• A known allergy to Amphetamine or any ingredient in Dyanavel XR
• Taken an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) within the past 14 days — combining these drugs can cause a dangerous hypertensive crisis
• Structural heart abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, or other serious heart conditions — stimulants increase cardiovascular risk in these patients

Additionally, Dyanavel XR is not recommended for children under 6 years old due to higher drug exposure and more frequent side effects in younger children.

Tell your doctor about all medications you're taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. For a full list of interactions, see our guide to Dyanavel XR drug interactions.

How Much Does Dyanavel XR Cost?

Because there is no generic version, Dyanavel XR is expensive:

• Cash price: Approximately $460 to $590 for a 30-day supply of tablets (20 mg)
• With insurance: Coverage varies widely. Many insurers require prior authorization and may want you to try a lower-cost alternative first (like generic Adderall XR or generic Vyvanse).
• Tris Pharma Savings Card: Eligible commercially insured patients may pay as little as $25 per month. Visit trissavingscard.com. Not available for patients on Medicare, Medicaid, or Tricare.
• Patient assistance: Uninsured or underinsured patients may qualify for help through Tris Pharma directly, or through resources like NeedyMeds and RxAssist.

For more ways to reduce your costs, check out our full guide to saving money on Dyanavel XR.

Common Side Effects

The most common side effects of Dyanavel XR include:

• Decreased appetite
• Insomnia
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Weight loss
• Dry mouth
• Emotional lability (mood swings)
• Dizziness

Serious side effects are less common but include cardiovascular events, psychiatric symptoms, and growth suppression in children. See our full side effects guide for details.

Final Thoughts

Dyanavel XR is a unique ADHD medication — especially valued for its liquid formulation, which makes it a great option for patients who can't swallow pills. It's effective, taken once daily, and backed by solid clinical data. The main downsides are cost (no generic available) and availability (affected by the broader amphetamine shortage).

If you've been prescribed Dyanavel XR and need help finding it, Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy with it in stock near you.