FDA warning: Potential for drug misuse (also called abuse)

This medication has a boxed warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is the strongest warning that the FDA requires. A boxed warningTrusted Source alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

Adderall and similar medications have the potential to be misused. (With misuse, a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed.)

Taking these medications for long periods of time can cause psychological and physical dependence. (With dependence, your body needs a drug in order to function like usual.) This may lead to obtaining Adderall illegally and using it for nonmedical purposes.

Misuse of Adderall may cause serious side effects, including heart problems and death.

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What is Adderall?

Adderall is a prescription medication that contains two drugs: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It belongs to a class of medications called stimulants. It’s most commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It’s also used to treat narcolepsy.

Adderall is considered a first-choice treatment option for ADHD. Studies of Adderall and Adderall XR show that the drugs improve attention and focus, and reduce impulsive behaviors. Between 75 percent and 80 percentTrusted Source of children with ADHD will see improved symptoms with the use of stimulants such as Adderall.

Adderall is also effective for increasing daytime wakefulness in people with narcolepsy, although there is little related research available.