Evekeo Is a Prescription Stimulant Used to Treat ADHD, Narcolepsy, and Obesity

Evekeo (amphetamine sulfate) is a brand-name prescription stimulant medication that contains a 1:1 ratio of d-amphetamine and l-amphetamine, also called racemic amphetamine. It belongs to the CNS stimulant class and is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence.

If you've been prescribed Evekeo or are considering it, here's everything you need to know — from what it treats to how much it costs.

What Is Evekeo?

Evekeo is manufactured by Azurity Pharmaceuticals (formerly Arbor Pharmaceuticals). It was FDA-approved for the treatment of ADHD, narcolepsy, and exogenous obesity.

What makes Evekeo unique among amphetamine medications is its 1:1 ratio of d-amphetamine to l-amphetamine. For comparison, Adderall uses a 3:1 ratio favoring d-amphetamine. This different ratio gives Evekeo a somewhat different effect profile — some patients find it produces fewer jittery side effects due to the higher proportion of l-amphetamine, which has more norepinephrine activity.

Evekeo is available in two formulations:

• Evekeo tablets — 5 mg and 10 mg oral tablets
• Evekeo ODT — Orally disintegrating tablets in 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, and 20 mg strengths (dissolve on the tongue without water)

What Is Evekeo Used For?

Evekeo is FDA-approved for three conditions:

1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

This is the most common use. Evekeo is approved for ADHD in patients aged 3 years and older. It works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control. Learn more about how Evekeo works.

2. Narcolepsy

Evekeo can help manage excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy by promoting wakefulness.

3. Exogenous Obesity

Evekeo is approved as a short-term adjunct (a few weeks) for weight loss in patients with obesity. However, this use is less common today given the availability of newer weight management medications.

How Is Evekeo Taken?

Evekeo is taken by mouth, usually one to three times daily. Here are the key dosing details:

• Typical dose range: 5 mg to 40 mg per day, divided into one to three doses
• First dose: Usually taken first thing in the morning upon waking
• Subsequent doses: Spaced 4 to 6 hours apart
• Avoid late doses: Don't take Evekeo in the late afternoon or evening, as it can cause insomnia
• With or without food: Evekeo can be taken either way, though food may help reduce stomach discomfort
• Evekeo ODT: Place the tablet on your tongue and let it dissolve — no water needed

Your doctor will typically start you on a low dose and increase gradually based on your response and any side effects.

Important: Acidic foods and drinks (like orange juice or vitamin C) can reduce Evekeo's effectiveness. Try to avoid these around the time you take your medication.

Who Should Not Take Evekeo?

Evekeo is contraindicated (should not be used) in people with:

• Known allergy to amphetamines or any component of Evekeo
• Advanced arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• Symptomatic cardiovascular disease
• Moderate to severe high blood pressure
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
• Glaucoma
• Agitated states
• History of drug abuse
• Current or recent use of MAO inhibitors (within 14 days)

Evekeo is also not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as amphetamines can pass to the baby through breast milk.

How Much Does Evekeo Cost?

Cost is one of the biggest challenges with Evekeo:

• Brand-name Evekeo: $350 to $600 for a 30-day supply without insurance
• Generic amphetamine sulfate: $30 to $80 for a 30-day supply (though the exact 1:1 racemic formulation may not be available as a generic in all forms)
• Insurance coverage: Evekeo is often classified as non-preferred or not covered. Prior authorization is commonly required, and insurance may require you to try Adderall or Methylphenidate first (step therapy).

There are ways to reduce your costs:

• Manufacturer savings card: Azurity Pharmaceuticals has offered co-pay cards that can reduce costs to as low as $30–$50 per fill for commercially insured patients. Check evekeo.com for current offers.
• Coupon cards: Sites like GoodRx and SingleCare may offer discounts at participating pharmacies.
• Patient assistance programs: If you're uninsured or low-income, check NeedyMeds or RxAssist for available programs.

For a complete breakdown, see our guide on how to save money on Evekeo.

Final Thoughts

Evekeo is a unique stimulant medication with a 1:1 amphetamine ratio that some patients respond to better than alternatives like Adderall or Vyvanse. While it can be harder to find and more expensive than other stimulants, it remains a valuable option for patients with ADHD, narcolepsy, and certain cases of obesity.

If you've been prescribed Evekeo and need help finding it in stock, Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy near you. And if you're considering whether Evekeo is right for you, talk to your doctor about finding a prescriber who's familiar with this medication.