Adderall 5 mg (Mixed Amphetamine Salts)

Adderall 5 mg is an immediate-release prescription medication containing
mixed amphetamine salts. It is a central nervous system stimulant used
to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and, in
appropriate patients, narcolepsy. Treatment should be prescribed and
monitored by a qualified healthcare professional.

What Is Adderall 5 mg Used For?

Adderall may help manage ADHD symptoms, including difficulty maintaining
attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. It may also be prescribed for
narcolepsy, a condition associated with excessive daytime sleepiness.
The suitability of treatment depends on the individual’s diagnosis and
medical history.

Explore our related resources:
ADHD medication guide,
prescription medication safety,
and
drug interactions.

How Does Adderall Work?

Adderall affects dopamine and norepinephrine signaling in the brain.
These chemical messengers play roles in attention, alertness, and
impulse control. The immediate-release formulation releases medication
more quickly than extended-release products such as Adderall XR.

Dosage and Administration

Adderall 5 mg is an available immediate-release tablet strength.
The appropriate dose and schedule depend on the patient’s age,
diagnosis, response to treatment, and medical circumstances. A
healthcare professional should determine the appropriate regimen.

• Take the medication exactly as prescribed.
• Do not change the dose or take extra doses without medical advice.
• Follow the administration instructions on the prescription label.
• Tell your prescriber about persistent symptoms or troublesome side effects.
• Never share prescription stimulant medication with another person.

Consult the

official DailyMed Adderall prescribing information

for detailed instructions and precautions.

Possible Side Effects

Potential side effects may include:

• Reduced appetite
• Difficulty sleeping
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Stomach discomfort or nausea
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Weight loss
• Increased heart rate or blood pressure

Seek urgent medical attention for chest pain, fainting, difficulty
breathing, seizures, severe agitation, hallucinations, or other
potentially serious symptoms.

Read our
medication side effects guide
for more information.

Warnings and Precautions

Adderall carries a boxed warning concerning abuse, misuse, addiction,
and overdose. Misuse may cause serious cardiovascular complications
and can be fatal.

• Tell your healthcare professional about heart disease, high blood pressure, mental health conditions, or a history of substance-use problems.
• Provide a complete list of prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and supplements you use.
• Do not take Adderall with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI, because of the risk of a dangerous interaction.
• Discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with your healthcare professional before treatment.
• Keep the medication securely stored and out of children’s reach.

For further information, visit our pages on
drug interactions
and
prescription medication safety.

Misuse, Dependence, and Overdose

Amphetamine-based medicines have the potential for misuse and dependence.
Use Adderall only as prescribed. Taking more than prescribed or combining
it with other stimulants can increase the risk of serious harm.

If an overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
Do not wait for symptoms to appear. See our
overdose prevention guide
for general safety information.

Storage and Handling

Keep Adderall in its original, securely closed container and follow the
storage instructions on the pharmacy label. Protect it from children and
unauthorized access. Dispose of unused medication according to pharmacist
or local-authority guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Adderall 5 mg an immediate-release medication?

Yes. Adderall 5 mg tablets are an immediate-release formulation, unlike
extended-release products such as Adderall XR.

Can Adderall 5 mg cause sleep problems?

Yes. Insomnia is a recognized side effect. Follow the prescribed schedule
and consult your healthcare professional if sleep difficulties persist.

Can I change my dose without consulting my prescriber?

No. Do not adjust your dose or schedule independently. Contact your
healthcare professional if your treatment needs to be reviewed.

Trusted Medical References

• 
  DailyMed: Adderall prescribing information
  
• 
  U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Drug safety information
  
• 
  MedlinePlus: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
  

Medical Disclaimer

This content is provided for general educational purposes only and does
not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Adderall
is a prescription stimulant with significant safety risks. Use it only
under the direction of a qualified healthcare professional.