Is Adderall a Schedule II Controlled Substance?
Yes, Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
DEA Classification
Adderall is definitively a Schedule II medication under the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970, as determined by the DEA 1, 2.
Schedule II classification indicates that amphetamines have a high potential for abuse and dependence, which is why they are subject to strict prescribing regulations and monitoring requirements 1, 2.
The DEA classifies medications based on their potential for abuse, with Schedule II representing substances that have accepted medical use but carry significant risk of psychological or physical dependence 3.
Clinical Implications of Schedule II Status
Prescribing restrictions apply: Schedule II medications require special prescription handling, cannot be refilled without a new prescription in most states, and are subject to quantity limitations 2.
Both dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) and mixed amphetamine salts (Adderall) share the same Schedule II classification due to their similar abuse potential and pharmacological properties 3, 1.
The Schedule II designation reflects documented risks including tolerance development, extreme psychological dependence, and severe social disability that have occurred with amphetamine abuse 1.
Important Caveats for Prescribers
Despite the high abuse potential classification, amphetamines remain FDA-approved and effective treatments for ADHD and narcolepsy when used appropriately under medical supervision 2, 4.
The Schedule II status requires prescribers to assess patient risk for misuse, abuse, or diversion before prescribing and to implement appropriate monitoring strategies 3.
Abrupt cessation following prolonged high-dosage administration can result in extreme fatigue, mental depression, and changes on sleep EEG, necessitating careful discontinuation planning 1.