provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Amphetamine Salt Combo XR (Adderall XR) Coupon - Amphetamine Salt Combo XR (Adderall XR) 20mg capsule

amphetamine salt combo XR (Adderall XR)

Generic Adderall XR
Used for ADHD
Used for ADHD

Adderall XR is a first-choice medication used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It contains the extended-release (XR) forms of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts. This medication is typically taken once per day and lasts throughout the day, but it's common to have trouble sleeping and a loss of appetite. It's a controlled substance because of its high risk of misuse and dependency.

Last reviewed on December 12, 2022
Adderall XR is a controlled substance, which means that it's more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
basics-icon

What is Adderall XR?

What is Adderall XR used for?

  • Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

How Adderall XR works

Adderall XR is a stimulant medication. It's not exactly known how Adderall XR helps to improve attention and focus, but it's thought to work by raising the levels of chemicals in your brain called norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin.

Are you looking for information on Adderall IR (dextroamphetamine / amphetamine salts) instead?
When does Adderall XR start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAdderall XR, Mydayis
Drug ClassStimulant
Controlled Substance ClassificationSchedule II
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$325.23(save 91.34%)
GoodRx discount
$28.18
See prices
warings-icon

What are the risks and warnings for Adderall XR?

Adderall XR can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

risk-warning

Misuse and dependence

  • Risk factors: History of substance or alcohol use disorder | Taking more Adderall XR than prescribed | Suddenly stopping Adderall XR

    Adderall XR has a risk of misuse and dependence. Misuse is when a medication is used differently than how it's prescribed. Misusing Adderall XR raises your risk for serious side effects such as high heart rate, high blood pressure, aggressive behavior, and even thoughts of hurting yourself. In addition, over time, you can become physically dependent on Adderall XR to function normally. This is usually related to having withdrawal symptoms like irritability, nightmares, and sleep problems if you take the medication for a long time and then suddenly stop. Take the medication exactly as prescribed to you. Don't change the dose or how often you take it without talking to your provider first.

    risk-warning

    Serious heart problems

    • Risk factors: History of heart problems

      There have been reports of sudden death, stroke, and heart attack in people who took Adderall XR at usual doses. Adderall XR can also raise your blood pressure and heart rate. Tell your provider if you have a history of heart problems before starting Adderall XR to make sure it's safe for you to take. Your provider will check for heart problems before starting treatment with this medication. Contact your provider if you experience unexplained fainting, chest pain with physical activity, or irregular heartbeat while you're taking Adderall XR.

      risk-warning

      Aggressive behavior and psychosis

      • Risk factors: History of psychotic episodes, bipolar disorder, or other mental health or mood-related conditions

        Taking a stimulant like Adderall XR can cause mental health problems such as hallucinations (seeing things that aren't really there), aggressive behavior, unclear thinking, and mania. This medication can worsen mood-related problems that you already have, but these changes in mood or behavior can also happen even if you haven't had these problems before. If you develop these mood- and behavior-related symptoms while taking Adderall XR, talk to your healthcare provider right away because you might have to stop taking it.

        risk-warning

        Slowed growth in children

        In studies, stimulants like Adderall XR slowed the growth rate (both in height and weight) in children. Your child's provider will track your child's growth progress closely. If they suspect slowed growth, they might pause or stop your child's Adderall XR treatment. Talk to your child's provider if you have concerns.

        risk-warning

        Vision problems

        Stimulants like Adderall XR can cause blurred vision and other vision problems. Let your provider know if you notice any changes with your vision.

        risk-warning

        Seizures

        • Risk factors: History of seizures

          Although rare, stimulants like Adderall XR can cause you to have seizures more easily, especially if you've have seizures before. If this happens, get medical help right away. You'll likely have to stop taking Adderall XR.

          risk-warning

          Blood circulation problem (such as Raynaud's phenomenon)

          Adderall XR might be linked to poor blood circulation problems, such as Raynaud's phenomenon. People with Raynaud's phenomenon can experience episodes of poor blood flow to the fingers and toes, which can cause the skin to turn pale and to feel cold, numb, or painful. If this happens, symptoms are typically mild. But rarely, it can cause sores or ulcers in more serious cases. Let your healthcare provider know if you notice symptoms of circulation problems, such as bouts of numbness or pain in your fingers or toes. Your provider might need to lower your dose of Adderall XR or ask you to consider a different medication.

          risk-warning

          Serotonin syndrome

          • Risk factors: Taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) 14 days before starting Adderall XR | Taking other medications that raise serotonin levels in your brain

            Serotonin syndrome is a rare, but potentially life-threatening condition where there's too much serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is one of the chemicals in your brain responsible for your mood.

            Your risk for this condition goes up if you use Adderall XR with other medications that affect serotonin levels, such as antidepressants (e.g., sertraline (Zoloft), duloxetine (Cymbalta)), MAOIs (e.g., phenelzine (Nardil)), linezolid (Zyvox), and certain migraine medications (e.g., sumatriptan (Imitrex)). Make sure your provider knows about all the medications you take or plan to take (including over-the-counter medications and supplements) so they can check that your medications are safe for you.

            Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include fast heart rate, sweating, muscle stiffness or spasms, high fever, and confusion. Get medical help right away if you have any of these symptoms.

            risk-warning

            Drug interactions

            Adderall XR can interact with a lot of commonly used medications. Adderall XR counteracts (works against) the effects of many blood pressure medications, including prazosin (Minipress) and beta blockers like propranolol (Inderal) and metoprolol (Lopressor). This means these blood pressure medications might not work as well for you if you take them with Adderall XR.

            Additionally, avoid taking Adderall XR with other medications that affect serotonin levels to lower the risk of serotonin syndrome. Also don't take Adderall XR with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) because of the risk of severely high blood pressure and serotonin syndrome.

            Make sure your healthcare provider and pharmacist know about all the medications you take (including over-the-counter medications and supplements) before starting Adderall XR. Don't start any new medications while taking Adderall XR without letting them know first.

            basics-icon

            What are the side effects of Adderall XR?

            The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

            Common Side Effects

            Children
            • Poor appetite
            • Trouble sleeping
            • Stomach pain
            Adults
            • Dry mouth
            • Poor appetite
            • Trouble sleeping
            • Headache
            • Nervousness
            • Weight loss

            Other Side Effects

            • Fatigue
            • Dizziness
            • Nausea
            • Vomiting
            • Indigestion
            • Stomach pain
            • Feeling irritable, agitated, or distressed
            • Anxiety
            • Fast heart rate

            Serious Side Effects

            Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
            • Allergic reactions: rash; hives; trouble breathing; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
            • Heart problems: heart attack, fast heart rate, high blood pressure
            • Brain-related problems: seizures, stroke
            • Mental health-related problems: manic episodes, changes in thoughts or behavior, hallucinations
            • Serotonin syndrome: fast heart rate, sweating, muscle stiffness or spasms, fever, confusion
            When do Adderall XR possible side effects begin and end?
            Time passed since treatment started:
            HOURS
            DAYS
            WEEKS
            MONTHS
            Headache
            Nervousness
            Trouble sleeping
            Stomach pain
            Poor appetite
            Weight loss

            Source: DailyMed

            The following side effects have also been reported

            Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

            • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
            • Heart attackpain or tightness in the chest, shoulders, arms, or jaw, nausea, shortness of breath, cold or clammy skin, feeling faint or lightheaded
            • Heart rhythm changes—fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, chest pain, trouble breathing
            • Increase in blood pressure
            • Irritability, confusion, fast or irregular heartbeat, muscle stiffness, twitching muscles, sweating, high fever, seizure, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, which may be signs of serotonin syndrome
            • Mood and behavior changes—anxiety, nervousness, confusion, hallucinations, irritability, hostility, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, worsening mood, feelings of depression
            • Prolonged or painful erection
            • Raynaud syndrome—cool, numb, or painful fingers or toes that may change color from pale, to blue, to red
            • Seizures
            • Stroke—sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, trouble speaking, confusion, trouble walking, loss of balance or coordination, dizziness, severe headache, change in vision

            Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

            pros-and-cons

            Pros and cons of Adderall XR

            thumbs-up

            Pros

            First-choice medication for ADHD

            Starts working within an hour after taking, and effect lasts up to 12 hours (Adderall XR brand) or 16 hours (Mydayis brand)

            Only taken once per day

            Capsules can be opened and mixed with applesauce if you have trouble swallowing medications.

            thumbs-down

            Cons

            Has a risk of misuse and dependency

            A controlled medication, so there are special requirements for getting the prescription filled

            Dose needs to be raised and lowered slowly to avoid side effects and withdrawal symptoms

            Not the best choice for pregnant or breastfeeding females or people with heart conditions

            pharmacist-tips

            Pharmacist tips for Adderall XR

            pharmacist
            • Take Adderall XR daily in the morning to avoid trouble sleeping at night.

              • Take Adderall XR with or without food. It's best to take it in the same way each day so the medication gets absorbed into your body consistently. Don't eat or drink too many acidic things (e.g., fruit juice, citrus fruits, foods containing vitamin C) because they can also affect medication absorption into the body.

                • If you're having a hard time swallowing Adderall XR capsules whole, you can open the capsule and sprinkle the contents onto applesauce. Make sure to swallow all of the medication and applesauce right away without chewing; don't save it for later use.

                  • Avoid alcohol while taking Adderall XR because it can make your ADHD symptoms worse. This combination can also cause dangerous side effects, including alcohol poisoning and heart problems.

                    • Avoid driving the first few days after you start Adderall XR and after dose changes until you know how this medication affects you. Adderall XR might cause blurry vision and affect how well you see.

                      • Since stimulants like Adderall XR tend to lower appetite and might affect growth in children, make sure your child is eating well. Speak with a provider if you're concerned about your child's nutrition or growth.

                        • Adderall XR might worsen tics and Tourette syndrome. Talk to a provider if you or your child has these problems so they can see if this medication is right for you or your child.

                          • Take Adderall XR exactly as your provider instructed you to. Don't change your dose or suddenly stop taking the medication without talking to your provider first. Doing so can lead to dangerous withdrawal symptoms, such as daytime sleepiness, irritability, trouble sleeping, and depression. If you want to stop Adderall XR, your provider will give you directions to lower your dose slowly over time before you can completely stop taking it.

                            • Accidentally taking too much Adderall XR can lead to an overdose. Symptoms of an Adderall XR overdose include restlessness, confusion, depression, hallucinations (seeing things that aren't real), and fever. Be sure you and your loved ones know how to recognize an overdose and to call 911 if this happens so emergency help can come right away.

                              faqs

                              Frequently asked questions about Adderall XR

                              Is Adderall XR a first-choice medication for ADHD?
                              According to the ADHD treatment guidelines, stimulant medications like Adderall XR used along with other behavioral therapies are first-choice options for children. Healthcare providers also use Adderall XR often for adults with ADHD. While stimulant medications generally work well to improve attention span and hyperactivity, they're not always for everyone. This is because they can cause a lot of side effects that affect many parts of the body. Talk with your provider about whether Adderall XR is an option for you.
                              What's the difference between Adderall IR and Adderall XR?
                              Adderall IR is the immediate-release version of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts, whereas Adderall XR contains the extended-release version of these same ingredients. The extended-release version slowly releases medication into the body throughout the day, so you only need to take it once a day. On the other hand, the immediate-release version release medication into the body quickly, and the effects of each tablet might not last as long as Adderall XR. So you might need to take Adderall IR tablets multiple times a day.
                              What's the difference between Adderall XR and Mydayis?
                              Both Adderall XR and Mydayis are extended-release forms of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts that start to work within an hour. While the effects of Adderall XR typically lasts up to 12 hours, the effects of Mydayis can last up to 16 hours. Additionally, Adderall XR can be used in children as young as 6 years old, but Mydayis is only approved for children who are at least 13 years old. Finally, Adderall XR is available as a lower-cost generic, but Mydayis is currently only available as a brand medication. Discuss with your provider which brand is more appropriate for you.
                              Can I use Adderall XR if I'm pregnant?
                              There isn't consistently strong evidence available to know if Adderall XR is safe to take during pregnancy. A few studies found that people who took stimulants similar to Adderall XR while they were expecting had a greater chance of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia) or of delivering their baby early (preterm). Additionally, newborn babies of mothers who took stimulants during pregnancy can develop neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), which are withdrawal symptoms like poor feeding or sucking, irritability, and signs of distress. If you're pregnant or thinking of getting pregnant, talk to your provider about the risks and benefits of Adderall XR to you and your unborn baby. If you're currently taking this medication while pregnant, it's encouraged that you enroll in the National Pregnancy Registry for ADHD Medications that follows your and your baby's health outcomes. Enroll in the registry by calling 1-866-961-2388 or by visiting their website.
                              Can I breastfeed while using Adderall XR?
                              It's recommended to avoid breastfeeding while taking Adderall XR. Limited research suggests Adderall XR can be found in breast milk with a potential risk of serious side effects, such as blood pressure and heart rate changes, growth problems, and blood flow problems. Talk to your provider about the risks and benefits of using Adderall XR while breastfeeding.
                              GoodRxEducationalIcon

                              How to save using GoodRx

                              Compare Prices
                              1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                              Select your free coupon
                              2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                              Show coupon to your pharmacist
                              3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                              Get free couponLearn more
                              dosage

                              Adderall XR dosage forms

                              The average cost for 30 capsules of 20mg of Adderall XR is $29.77 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 90.85% off the average retail price of $325.23.
                              capsule
                              Capsule
                              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                              5mg30 capsules$30.31$1.01
                              10mg30 capsules$30.31$1.01
                              15mg30 capsules$28.18$0.94
                              20mg30 capsules$29.77$0.99
                              25mg30 capsules$30.31$1.01
                              30mg30 capsules$30.31$1.01

                              Typical dosing for Adderall XR

                              Adderall XR

                              • Children ages 6 to under 13 years: The typical starting dose is 5 mg to 10 mg by mouth once every day. The maximum daily dose is 30 mg per day.

                              • Children ages 13 to under 18 years old: The typical starting dose is 10 mg by mouth once every day.

                              • Adults: The typical starting dose is 20 mg by mouth every day.

                              Mydayis

                              • Children ages 13 to under 18 years: The typical starting dose is 12.5 mg by mouth once each day. The maximum daily dose is 25 mg per day.

                              • Adults ages 18 to 55 years old: The typical starting dose is 12.5 mg by mouth once each day. The maximum daily dose is 50 mg per day.

                              Your provider will adjust your dose of Adderall XR based on how well it's helping your symptoms, if you're having side effects, or if you have severe kidney problems.

                              drug-cost

                              How much does Adderall XR cost?

                              To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.View prices & coupons
                              contraindications-icon

                              Adderall XR contraindications

                              Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Adderall XR will not be safe for you to take.
                              alternatives

                              What are alternatives to Adderall XR?

                              There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Adderall XR. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                              Adderall XR
                              Used for:
                              • Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

                              $28.18 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              Used for:
                              • Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

                              $21.30 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              Used for:
                              • Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children age 6 years and older

                              $380.61 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              images

                              Adderall XR images

                              Brown G454 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              This medicine is Brown Capsule Imprinted With "G454".Brown G454 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              Blue Logo-3060 Logo-3060 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              This medicine is Blue Capsule Imprinted With "Logo-3060 Logo-3060".Blue Logo-3060 Logo-3060 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              Orange Lannett 0793 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              This medicine is Orange Capsule Imprinted With "Lannett 0793".Orange Lannett 0793 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              Orange M. Amphet Salts 20 Mg - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              This medicine is Orange Capsule Imprinted With "M. Amphet Salts 20 Mg".Orange M. Amphet Salts 20 Mg - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              Orange 20 Mg T - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              This medicine is Orange Capsule Imprinted With "20 Mg T".Orange 20 Mg T - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              Pink And White Eli-513 20Mg - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              This medicine is Pink And White Capsule Imprinted With "Eli-513 20Mg".Pink And White Eli-513 20Mg - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              Orange Rp 720 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              This medicine is Orange Capsule Imprinted With "Rp 720".Orange Rp 720 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              Pink Amg 280 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              This medicine is Pink Capsule Imprinted With "Amg 280".Pink Amg 280 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              Orange Lannett 0793 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              This medicine is Orange Capsule Imprinted With "Lannett 0793".Orange Lannett 0793 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              Pink And White Eli-513 20Mg - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              This medicine is Pink And White Capsule Imprinted With "Eli-513 20Mg".Pink And White Eli-513 20Mg - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              Gold G Amp Xr 20 Mg 032 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule
                              This medicine is Gold Capsule Imprinted With "G Amp Xr 20 Mg 032".Gold G Amp Xr 20 Mg 032 - Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine Salts 20mg Extended-Release Capsule

                              Get savings updates for Adderall XR

                              Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Adderall XR and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                              By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                              Browse medications

                              View All

                              Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.