What is the dosage range of Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) and Adderall XR (extended-release amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults?

From the Guidelines

Adderall and Adderall XR dosages for ADHD in adults should be carefully adjusted, with immediate-release Adderall starting at 5-10 mg once or twice daily and Adderall XR starting at 10-20 mg once daily, with gradual increases as needed up to a maximum of 40 mg daily for immediate-release and 60 mg daily for extended-release.

Key Considerations

• The dosage range is based on individual response, with the goal of finding the lowest effective dose to minimize side effects and maximize benefits 1.
• Adults may require higher doses due to the need for more dosings to cover a longer day, but careful monitoring is necessary to avoid side effects such as weight loss, blood pressure increase, or agitation 1.
• Regular monitoring of blood pressure, pulse, height, and weight is essential, especially for adults on stimulants, who should have their blood pressure and pulse checked quarterly 1.

Dosage Adjustments

• Dosing should be individualized, with gradual increases as needed and careful assessment of treatment response and side effects 1.
• The maximum daily doses for older adolescents and adults are generally similar to those for school-age children, with some adult patients treated with total daily doses of up to 1.0 mg/kg of MPH or 0.9 mg/kg of DEX/AMP, or 65 mg for MPH and 40 mg for DEX/AMP 1.

Important Reminders

• Patients should take the medication in the morning to minimize sleep disturbances and avoid abrupt discontinuation 1.
• These medications are controlled substances due to potential for abuse, and treatment effectiveness should be reassessed periodically, with dosage adjustments made accordingly under medical supervision 1.

From the Research

Dosage Range of Adderall and Adderall XR for ADHD in Adults

The dosage range of Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) and Adderall XR (extended-release amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults is as follows:

• The study 2 found that the mean end dose for responders to Adderall was 10.77 mg/day (0.14 mg/kg/day), with a starting dose of 5 mg p.o. b.i.d. and titration according to clinical response.
• The study 3 investigated the efficacy and safety of amphetamines, including mixed amphetamine salts (MAS), for ADHD in adults, with doses ranging from 12.5 mg/d to 80 mg/d.
• However, the exact dosage range for Adderall XR is not specified in the provided studies.

Key Findings

• The study 2 found that Adderall may be an effective agent for the treatment of adult forms of ADHD, with positive responses occurring at relatively low doses.
• The study 3 found that amphetamines, including MAS, reduced the severity of ADHD symptoms as rated by clinicians and patients, but were associated with an increased proportion of patients who withdrew due to adverse events.
• The study 4 mentions that Adderall XR is indicated for the treatment of ADHD in adults, but does not provide specific dosage information.

Adverse Events

• The study 3 found that amphetamines were associated with an increased proportion of patients who withdrew due to adverse events, including gastrointestinal complications and loss of appetite.
• The study 5 examined the cardiovascular safety of methylphenidate, amphetamines, and atomoxetine, and found that amphetamines appear to cause minor increases in heart rate and blood pressure over the long term.