Adderall is the commercial name for a medicine that combines two active drugs: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It stimulates the central nervous system by acting on chemicals in the brain and nerve cells linked to hyperactivity and impulse control. It is indicated for the treatment of narcolepsy and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), although a doctor may also prescribe Adderall off-label for other conditions. Adderall is a Schedule II drug associated with potentially serious side effects and may cause drug dependency and should only be used under the direction of a doctor.
ADHD
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, ADHD is one of the most common disorders to affect children and can continue through adolescence and adulthood. Although Adderall is a stimulant, this type of medicine when given at a low dose has the effect of calming a child down. Adderall is approved for use in children aged three years and over. Adderall may help control hyperactivity and impulsive behavior, and may also help improve a child's ability to focus and learn. Adderall may not work for all children, however, and it can slow a child's growth. Therefore, it is important that parents discuss with their doctor whether Adderall is a suitable drug for their child.
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a condition characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden sleep attacks and muscle weakness. It is a rare condition that affects men and women equally and usually starts during adolescence. Although there is no cure for narcolepsy, it can be managed with a drug therapy such as Adderall. A doctor will likely prescribe Adderall for narcolepsy at a higher dose than for ADHD. This is because at higher doses, Adderall has a strong stimulating effect. However, the ingredients found in Adderall are known to be habit-forming and may cause serious cardiovascular events. As such, patients should use Adderall only under the direction of a doctor.
Off-Label Indications
Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has only approved Adderall for narcolepsy and ADHD, a doctor may, in some cases, decide to prescribe Adderall off-label for other conditions, such as depression. The same drugs contained in Adderall have previously been used as a weight loss treatment. Since Adderall is known to be habit-forming, an individual seeking treatment for obesity or depression should use Adderall only if prescribed by a doctor and should not self-prescribe.
