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Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR (commonly known by the brand name Adderall) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant composed of mixed amphetamine salts. It is FDA-approved for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults and children aged 3 and older, as well as narcolepsy.
The immediate-release (IR) formulation typically lasts 4–6 hours per dose and is usually taken 1–3 times daily. It helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control in people with ADHD, and reduces excessive daytime sleepiness in those with narcolepsy.
Originally marketed by Shire Pharmaceuticals (now Takeda), the medication is now widely available as a generic from multiple manufacturers including Teva, Sandoz, and Mallinckrodt.
Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine works by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. It does this through two primary mechanisms:
The combined effect of increased dopamine and norepinephrine signaling in the prefrontal cortex and other brain regions leads to improved attention, focus, executive function, and impulse control. In narcolepsy, these same pathways help promote wakefulness.
Each tablet contains a mixture of amphetamine aspartate, amphetamine sulfate, dextroamphetamine saccharate, and dextroamphetamine sulfate in a 3:1 ratio of d-amphetamine to l-amphetamine.
Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR remains moderately difficult to find in 2026. The FDA first listed mixed amphetamine salts in shortage in October 2022 after Teva Pharmaceuticals — the largest generic manufacturer — reported manufacturing delays. While supply has improved significantly from peak shortage levels in 2023, intermittent regional shortages continue into 2026.
The DEA increased the 2025 aggregate production quota for d-amphetamine by 25% (from 21.2 to 26.5 million grams), which has helped ease supply constraints. However, certain doses (particularly 20 mg and 30 mg tablets) and certain regions still experience spotty availability. You may need to call multiple pharmacies or use a tool like Medfinder to locate stock near you.
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Because amphetamine/dextroamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance, it requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider with DEA prescribing authority. The following types of providers commonly prescribe it:
Telehealth prescribing is available for this medication through certain platforms, though regulations around remote prescribing of Schedule II stimulants vary by state and have become stricter since 2023. Many telehealth ADHD services now require at least one in-person visit.
Yes. Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA. This is the most restrictive category for medications that have accepted medical use.
Schedule II classification means:
Like all stimulant medications, amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR can cause side effects. Most are mild and may improve over time:
Serious side effects are rare but may include cardiovascular events (increased blood pressure, rapid heart rate), psychiatric symptoms (psychosis, mania, aggression), peripheral vasculopathy (Raynaud's phenomenon), and seizures. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or severe mood changes.
If you're unable to find amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR in stock or it isn't right for you, consider these alternatives:
Always consult your prescribing doctor before switching medications. They can help determine the best alternative based on your individual needs.
Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR has several important drug interactions to be aware of:
Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you take before starting amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR.
Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR remains one of the most widely prescribed and effective treatments for ADHD and narcolepsy. While the ongoing shortage that began in late 2022 has improved, finding this medication in stock can still be a challenge in 2026 — particularly for popular doses like 20 mg and 30 mg.
The good news: generic versions are affordable when you can find them, with prices as low as $14–$25 with a discount coupon. Insurance coverage is typically excellent for the generic, with most plans covering it as a preferred medication.
If you're having trouble locating amphetamine/dextroamphetamine IR at your usual pharmacy, try using Medfinder to check real-time availability at pharmacies near you. You can also ask your pharmacist about alternative doses or manufacturers that may be in stock, or discuss switching to a different formulation with your doctor.
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