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Adult ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) »
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most well-recognized childhood developmental problems. This condition is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. It is now known that these symptoms continue into adulthood for about 60% of children with ADHD. That translates into 4% of the US adult population, or 8 million adults. However, few adults are identified or treated for adult ADHD.
Adults with ADHD may have difficulty following directions, remembering information, concentrating, organizing tasks or completing work within time limits. If these difficulties are not managed appropriately, they can cause associated behavioral, emotional, social, vocational and academic problems.
Read the Adult ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) article »
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
AMPHETAMINE/DEXTROAMPHETAMINE EXTENDED-RELEASE - ORAL
(am-FET-a-meen/DEX-troe-am-FET-a-meen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Adderall XR
WARNING: Misuse or abuse of amphetamine may result in serious (possibly fatal) heart and blood pressure problems. Amphetamine-type medications can be habit-forming. Use only as directed. With prolonged use, drug dependence may occur, and withdrawal symptoms may occur after stopping the drug. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
USES: This combination medication is used as part of a total treatment program to control attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It may help to increase the ability to pay attention, stay focused, and control behavior problems.
This product is a combination of stimulants (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine). It is thought to work by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.
OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This drug may also be used to treat certain sleeping disorders (narcolepsy). It should not be used to treat tiredness or to hold off sleep in people who do not have a sleep disorder.
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking amphetamine/dextroamphetamine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once daily in the morning or as directed by your doctor. Taking this medication after noon may cause trouble sleeping.
Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush or chew the capsules. Doing so can destroy the long action of the drug and increase side effects. If you have difficulty swallowing this medication whole, you may sprinkle the entire contents of a capsule on a small amount of applesauce just before taking. Swallow the mixture immediately. Do not chew the mixture, and do not save it for future use. Drink a glass of liquid after each dose.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Your doctor may adjust your dose to find the dose that is best for you. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
Use this medication regularly and exactly as prescribed in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.
This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time (more than a few weeks) or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as severe tiredness, mood changes including depression, and sleep problems) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.
Though it is unlikely to occur, this medication can also result in abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction/habit-forming). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed. This will lessen the chances of becoming addicted.
When used for a long period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.
If you are taking this drug for ADHD, your doctor may recommend "drug holidays" when the medication is stopped for a short time to observe any changes in behavior.
Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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