Drugs

CNS Stimulants

CNS Stimulants

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is the brand name of a prescription medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. Adderall is a combination of two stimulant drugs, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Adderall XR is an extended-release form of the drug. Doctors also prescribe Adderall (but not Adderall XR) to treat narcolepsy. Adderall may help people with ADHD control their activities and increase their attention spans. The drug may also prevent symptoms of narcolepsy, which include excessive sleepiness and sudden attacks of daytime sleepiness. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Adderall in 1960. The agency also has approved the combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine as a generic drug. DSM Pharmaceuticals makes the brand-name drug, and many drug companies make a generic version.