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Dyanavel XR

amphetamine
Used for ADHD

Dyanavel XR, a brand name of extended-release amphetamine, is a stimulant medication. It treats attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in people ages 6 years and older. Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) comes as a tablet that's swallowed whole or chewed. It also comes as a suspension (liquid). The dosage is taken once a day in the morning. Dose adjustments are based on how the medication is working for you and what side effects you have. Possible side effects include stomach pain and low appetite. Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) isn't available as a generic yet.

Reviewed by:Last reviewed on August 4, 2025
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What is Dyanavel XR (amphetamine)?

What is Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) used for?

How Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) works

Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) is a stimulant medication. It's not exactly known how it works to treat ADHD. But researchers do know that it raises the amount of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin in the brain. These chemicals are thought to play a role with how well you pay attention.

When does Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) start working?Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
Initial effect
HOURS
Full effect
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS

Drug facts

Common BrandsDyanavel XR
Drug ClassStimulant
Controlled Substance ClassificationSchedule II
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Risks and warnings for Dyanavel XR (amphetamine)

Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) 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 of misuse and addiction

  • Risk factors: History of substance or alcohol use disorder | Taking more Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) than prescribed

Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) has a high risk that it could be misused. Misusing this medication can be harmful and lead to serious side effects. These include fast heart rate, high blood pressure, nightmares, aggressive behavior, and even thoughts of hurting yourself or others. It can also raise your risk of addiction and a deadly overdose.

To stay safe, take Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) exactly as prescribed to you. Don't change the dose or how often you take it without talking to your prescriber first. Talk to your prescriber if you're worried about these risks.

Risks to people with serious heart conditions

There have been reports in people with certain heart problems taking stimulants like Dyanavel XR (amphetamine). Before starting this medication, tell your prescriber about any heart issues that you have. This can include coronary artery disease (CAD) or heart rhythm problems. Also let them know if you have any problems with the structure of your heart. Your prescriber can make sure Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) is safe for you.

Higher blood pressure and faster heart rate

Your blood pressure and heart rate can go up while taking stimulants like Dyanavel XR (amphetamine). On average, blood pressure can get 2 mmHg to 4 mmHg higher. And, heart rate can get 3 to 6 beats per minute faster.

Let your prescriber know if you have high blood pressure or a history of having a fast heart rate. They can make sure Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) is safe for you. Tell your care team if your blood pressure is higher than normal or if you feel your heart racing.

Strange thoughts or behaviors

  • Risk factors: History of psychotic episodes or other manic psychiatric conditions | Personal or family history of depression | Family history of suicide or bipolar disorder

Stimulants like Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) can sometimes make you act strange or have unusual thoughts. This can include being irritable, acting recklessly, or having too much energy. Some people might start to see or hear things that aren't there (hallucinations). And others might start to have delusions, or believe things that aren't true.

Although rare, changes in thoughts and behaviors can happen in people who've never had these problems before. But they can be worse or more likely to happen if you already have a mental health condition like psychosis or bipolar disorder. Your prescriber will check your risk before you start Dyanavel XR (amphetamine).

If you start acting in a strange way or have unusual thoughts, tell your prescriber. You might need to stop taking Dyanavel XR (amphetamine).

Slow growth in children

Stimulants like Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) have been linked to weight loss in children. There's also a possibility that children might grow in both height and weight more slowly. Your child's care team will measure their height and weight often. If your child isn't growing as well as they should, their primary care provider might say to take a break from the medication.

Speak to your child's primary care provider or prescriber if you notice your child has lost a lot of weight. Talk to their care team if you're worried about your child's growth. Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) isn't approved or recommended in children younger than 6 years of age.

Problems with blood flow in the arms and legs, including Raynaud's phenomenon

Stimulants such as Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) have been linked to problems with blood flow in the arms and legs. This includes Raynaud's phenomenon, which affects blood flow to your fingers and toes.

Raynaud's phenomenon can make your fingers and toes change color from pale, to blue, to red. They can also hurt or feel cold or numb. These symptoms happen with changes in how much blood gets to your fingers and toes. Symptoms are usually mild and they happen every so often. But rarely, it can lead to other problems like sores or tissue damage.

Tell your care team if you have any of these symptoms while taking Dyanavel XR (amphetamine). Usually, they get better after your prescriber lowers your dose or after you stop the medication.

Serotonin syndrome

  • Risk factors: Taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) within 14 days of Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) | Taking other medications that raise serotonin levels in your brain

There's a risk of a rare but serious problem called serotonin syndrome if you take Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) with some other medications. Serotonin syndrome happens when there's too much serotonin in the brain.

Medications that raise the risk of this problem are those that make serotonin levels go up in the brain. Some examples are antidepressants, MAOIs, and migraine medications called triptans. Let your care team know about all the medications you take or plan to take. They can look for drug interactions and make changes to keep you safe if needed.

Get medical help right away if you have signs of serotonin syndrome. Watch for signs like a fast heart rate, sweating, high fever, stiff muscles, changes in behavior, and confusion.

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Side effects of Dyanavel XR (amphetamine)

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

Less Common Side Effects

Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) serious side effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.

  • Changes in thoughts or behavior: manic episodes, hallucinations, delusional thinking
  • Serotonin syndrome: fast heart rate, sweating, fever, stiff muscles, muscle spasms, confusion
  • Allergic reaction: rash; hives; trouble breathing; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
When do Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
H
D
W
M
Trouble sleeping
Low appetite
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

The following Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) 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):

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Pros and cons of Dyanavel XR (amphetamine)

Pros

  • Taken by mouth once a day with or without food
  • Starts to work within 45 minutes and lasts up to 12 hours
  • Good choice for people who have trouble swallowing pills (you can either chew the tablet or get the liquid version)

Cons

  • Is a controlled substance because of the risk of misuse and dependence, so there are special requirements to get the medication filled
  • Can make it hard to fall asleep if you take it too late in the day
  • Need to have your dose lowered slowly to stop the medication to avoid withdrawal symptoms
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Pharmacist tips for Dyanavel XR (amphetamine)

pharmacist
  • Take Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) in the morning as soon as you wake up. Taking it later in the day might raise your chances of having trouble sleeping at night.
  • For the Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) tablets: You can swallow the tablet whole or chew them before swallowing. The 5 mg tablet is scored, so you can cut it in half with a pill splitter, if needed. Don't cut the tablets of any other strength because they're not scored and it's not safe to cut them.
  • For the Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) suspension: Store the bottle with the adapter on at room temperature. Shake the bottle well before each time. Always use an oral syringe to measure out the dose and make sure the dose is correct. Then, place the tip of the syringe into the mouth towards the cheek. Slowly push the plunger all the way down to give the medication. Clean the syringe afterwards.
  • You can take Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) with or without food. But try to limit how many acidic things you eat or drink. This includes fruit juice, citrus fruits, and other foods rich in vitamin C. They might make the medication not work as well.
  • Take Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) exactly how your prescriber tells you. Don't change your dose or stop taking it suddenly without talking to them first. If you do, you might have withdrawal symptoms. You might start to feel uneasy, be very tired, or have trouble sleeping. Your prescriber will help you lower the dose slowly to stop safely. Follow their instructions carefully.
  • Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) can sometimes make you not very hungry. When you do eat, make sure the food you eat is nutritious so you can stay healthy. Talk to your care team if you're worried about your nutrition.
  • It's best to limit how much coffee or other caffeinated beverages you drink while you're taking Dyanavel XR (amphetamine). Caffeine and stimulants can both make you jittery. You also might have higher blood pressure and trouble sleeping. Talk to your prescriber about other ways to keep you awake or alert if needed.
  • Avoid alcohol while taking Dyanavel XR (amphetamine). Mixing alcohol with stimulants raise the risk of alcohol poisoning. It can also make your heart have to work harder. Talk to a healthcare professional if not drinking is a problem for you.
  • Avoid driving the first few days after starting Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) and after your dose changes until you know how it affects you. This medication can make your vision blurry, which can make it dangerous to drive.
  • Tell your care team about all the medications you take or plan to take. Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) can interact with other medications, which can be harmful. Examples include some antidepressants and blood pressure medications. Your care team can check for drug interactions to make sure your medications are safe for you.
  • Speak to your prescriber if you have tics or Tourette syndrome. Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) might make these problems worse, so your prescriber can help you figure out the best plan for you.
  • Accidentally taking too much Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) can be very dangerous. It can lead to an overdose. This can look like restlessness, confusion, anxiety, depression, shaking, and heavy breathing. Be sure you and your loved ones know what an overdose could look like. Call 911 right away if this happens.
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Common questions about Dyanavel XR (amphetamine)

Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) typically starts to work within an hour after you take it. It's best to take the medication in the morning after you wake up. Once you start work or school, the medication should be working to help you pay better attention.

Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) can help you pay attention for as long as 13 hours after you take it. Talk to your prescriber if you have questions about how long the medication lasts during the day.

Weight loss is a possible side effect of Dyanavel XR (amphetamine). It can sometimes make you feel less hungry, which might cause some weight loss. If you notice you're losing too much weight while taking this medication, talk to your prescriber. Remember, Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) is not approved to be used for weight loss. If you purposefully use the medication to lose weight, that's called misuse. This can be very dangerous and can lead to serious problems like a stroke or irregular heart rhythm. If you need help with your weight, talk to a healthcare professional about safer options.

Dyanavel XR and Adderall are both stimulant medications used to treat ADHD. Adderall comes in immediate-release (Adderall IR) and extended-release (Adderall XR) pills. On the other hand, Dyanavel XR only comes as a long-acting medication. And it might be easier to take for people who can't swallow pills whole. Dyanavel XR tablets can be either swallowed whole or chewed. And, there's a liquid version of the medication. Ask your prescriber to compare these medications and see which is right for you.

If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your prescriber or obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN). They can discuss the risks and benefits of taking Dyanavel XR (amphetamine). It's not clear how safe it is during pregnancy. Some research suggests that taking stimulants during pregnancy might put you at risk of preterm labor or having a baby with low birth weight. Newborns might also have withdrawal symptoms. This can look like high-pitched crying and trouble eating. If you take Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) while pregnant, your prescriber might have you join a pregnancy registry. This helps researchers learn more about how safe stimulant medications are during pregnancy.

It's not recommended to breastfeed while taking Dyanavel XR (amphetamine). This medication can pass into breast milk, and we don't know if it's safe for you and your baby. But there's a possible risk that your baby could have side effects from the medication. Talk to your prescriber about the risks and benefits of taking Dyanavel XR (amphetamine). Speak to your prescriber or a lactation specialist about options to feed your baby.

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Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) dosage

The average cost for 30 tablets of 20mg of Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) is $443.44 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 22.31% off the average retail price of $570.75.
ml of oral suspensionMl of oral suspension
DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
2.5mg/ml60 ml$173.59$2.89
tabletTablet
DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
5mg30 tablets$241.57$8.05
10mg30 tablets$443.37$14.78
15mg30 tablets$444.97$14.83
20mg30 tablets$443.44$14.78

Typical dosage for Dyanavel XR (amphetamine)

The typical starting dose is 2.5 mg or 5 mg by mouth once a day in the morning. The maximum dose is 20 mg per day.

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How much does Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) cost?

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Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) 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 Dyanavel XR (amphetamine) will not be safe for you to take.

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What are alternatives to Dyanavel XR (amphetamine)?

There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Dyanavel XR (amphetamine). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
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References

Best studies we found

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. (2017). ADHD & the brain.

Berman, S. M., et al. (2009). Potential adverse effects of amphetamine treatment on brain and behavior: A review. Molecular Psychiatry.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Diagnosing tic disorders.

GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.

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