Skip to content
ppharmaranks
Menu
Takeda Pharms USA logo

adderall xr

Adderall XR is a combination medicine containing Dextroamphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Amphetamine Sulfate, and Amphetamine Aspartate.

Dextroamphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Amphetamine Sulfate and Amphetamine Aspartate · by Takeda Pharms USA

Not yet rated· sourced from the FDA label
Rated against independent regulatory sources·Last updated July 13, 2026·How we rate
Verified againstopenFDANIH DailyMedRxClass

Key facts

Active ingredient
Dextroamphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Amphetamine Sulfate and Amphetamine Aspartate
Form
Capsule, extended release
Type
Prescription (Rx)
Brand or generic
Brand-name
Manufacturer
Takeda Pharms USA
Half-life
about 10 to 11 hours for d-amphetamine (range 9.8 to 11 hours) and about 12 to 14 hours for l-amphetamine (range 11.5 to 13.8 hours) in healthy adults (how long it stays in your system)
FDA application
NDA021303

What is Adderall XR?

From the FDA label:MAS-ER Capsules contain mixed salts of a single-entity amphetamine, a CNS stimulant. MAS-ER Capsules contain equal amounts (by weight) of four salts: dextroamphetamine sulfate, amphetamine sulfate, dextroamphetamine saccharate and amphetamine (D, L)-aspartate monohydrate. This results in a 3.1:1 mixture of dextro- to levo-amphetamine base equivalent. The 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg and 30 mg strength extended-release capsules are for oral administration. MAS-ER Capsules contain two types of drug-containing beads (immediate-release and delayed-release) which prolong the release of amphetamine compared to the Adderall (immediate-release) tablet formulation. Each capsule contains: Capsule Strength 5 mg 10 mg 15 mg 20 mg 25 mg 30 mg Dextroamphetamine Saccharate 1.25 mg 2.5 mg 3.75 mg 5.0 mg 6.25 mg 7.5 mg Amphetamine (D,L)-Aspartate Monohydrate 1.25 mg 2.5 mg 3.75 mg 5.0 mg 6.25 mg 7.5 mg Dextroamphetamine Sulfate 1.25 mg 2.5 mg 3.75 mg 5.0 mg 6.25 mg 7.5 mg Amphetamine Sulfate 1.25 mg 2.5 mg 3.75 mg 5.0 mg 6.25 mg 7.5 mg Total amphetamine base equivalence 3.1 mg 6.3 mg 9.4 mg 12.5 mg 15.6 mg 18.8 mg d -amphetamine base equivalence 2.4 mg 4.7 mg 7.1 mg 9.5 mg 11.9 mg 14.2 mg l -amphetamine base equivalence 0.75 mg 1.5 mg 2.3 mg 3.0 mg 3.8 mg 4.5 mg Inactive Ingredients and Colors The inactive ingredients in MAS-ER Capsules include: gelatin capsules, hydroxypropyl…

How to use

Pediatric patients (ages 6 to 17): 10 mg once daily in the morning. Maximum dose for children 6 to 12 years of age is 30 mg once daily. ( 2.2 , 2.3 , 2.4 ) Adults: 20 mg once daily in the morning. ( 2.5 ) Pediatric patients (ages 6 to 17) with severe renal impairment: 5 mg once daily in the morning. Maximum dose for children 6 to 12 years of age with severe renal impairment is 20 mg once daily. ( 2.6 , 8.6 ) Adults with severe renal impairment: 15 mg once daily in the morning. ( 2.6 , 8.6 ) Patients with ESRD: Not recommended. ( 2.6 , 8.6 ) 2.1 Pretreatment Screening Prior to treating patients with MAS-ER Capsules, assess: for the presence of cardiac disease (i.e., perform a careful history, family history of sudden death or ventricular arrhythmia, and physical exam) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . the family history and clinically evaluate patients for motor or verbal tics or Tourette’s syndrome before initiating MAS-ER Capsules [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] . 2.2 General Administration Information Individualize the dosage according to the therapeutic needs and response of the patient. Administer MAS-ER Capsules at the lowest effective dosage. Based on bioequivalence data, patients taking divided doses of immediate-release Adderall, (for example, twice daily), may be switched to MAS-ER Capsules at the same total daily dose taken once daily. Titrate at weekly…

Side effects

The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.2 , 9.3) ] Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Psychiatric Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Long-Term Suppression of Growth in Pediatric Patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Peripheral Vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s Phenomenon [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Serotonin Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Motor and Verbal Tics, and Worsening of Tourette’s Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Pediatric patients ages 6 to 12: Most common adverse reactions (≥5% and with a higher incidence than on placebo) were loss of appetite, insomnia, abdominal pain, emotional lability, vomiting, nervousness, nausea, and fever. ( 6.1 ) Pediatric patients ages 13 to 17: Most common adverse reactions (≥5% and with a higher incidence than on placebo) were loss of appetite, insomnia, abdominal pain, weight loss, and nervousness. ( 6.1 ) Adults: Most common adverse reactions ≥5% and with a higher incidence than on placebo were dry mouth, loss of appetite,…

FDA Boxed Warning (the FDA’s most serious warning)

Boxed (black-box) warning — from the FDA label

Capsules have a high potential for abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including MAS-ER Capsules, can result in overdose and death [see Overdosage (10) ] , and this risk is increased with higher doses or unapproved methods of administration, such as snorting or injection. Before prescribing MAS-ER Capsules, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks, proper storage of the drug, and proper disposal of any unused drug. Throughout MAS-ER Capsule treatment, reassess each patient’s risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.2) ] . WARNING: ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. MAS-ER Capsules has a high potential for abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including MAS-ER Capsules, can result in overdose and death ( 5.1 , 9.2 , 10 ): Before prescribing MAS-ER Capsules, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks, proper storage of the drug, and proper disposal of any unused drug. Throughout treatment, reassess each patient’s risk and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction.

Warnings

Important safety information

Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease: Avoid use in patients with known structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious cardiac arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac disease. ( 5.2 ) Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Monitor blood pressure and pulse at appropriate intervals. ( 5.3 ) Psychiatric Adverse Reactions: Prior to initiating MAS-ER Capsules, screen patients for risk factors for developing a manic episode. If new psychotic or manic symptoms occur, consider discontinuing MAS-ER Capsules. ( 5.4 ) Long-Term Suppression of Growth in Pediatric Patients: Closely monitor growth (height and weight) in pediatric patients. Pediatric patients not growing or gaining height or weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted. ( 5.5 ) Seizures: May lower the convulsive threshold. Discontinue in the presence of seizures. ( 5.6 ) Peripheral Vasculopathy, Including Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Careful observation for digital changes is necessary during MAS-ER Capsule treatment. Further clinical evaluation (e.g., rheumatology referral) may be appropriate for patients who develop signs or symptoms of peripheral vasculopathy. ( 5.7 ) Serotonin Syndrome: Increased risk when coadministered with serotonergic agents (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, triptans), but also during overdosage situations. If it occurs, discontinue MAS-ER Capsules and initiate supportive treatment. ( 4 , 5.8 , 10 ) Motor and Verbal Tics, and Worsening of Tourette’s Syndrome: Before initiating MAS-ER Capsules, assess the family history and clinically evaluate patients for tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Regularly monitor patients for the emergence or worsening of tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Discontinue treatment if clinically appropriate. ( 5.9 ) 5.1 Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction MAS-ER Capsules have a high potential for abuse and misuse. The use of MAS-ER Capsules exposes individuals to the risks of abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. MAS-ER Capsules can be diverted for non-medical use into illicit channels or distribution [see Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.2) ] . Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including MAS-ER Capsules, can result in overdose and death [see Overdosage (10) ] , and this risk is increased with higher doses or unapproved methods of administration, such as snorting or injection. Before prescribing MAS-ER Capsules, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks and proper disposal of any unused drug. Advise patients to store MAS-ER Capsules in a safe place, preferably locked, and instruct patients to not give MAS-ER Capsules to anyone else. Throughout MAS-ER Capsule treatment, reassess each patient’s risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction. 5.2 Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease Sudden death has been reported in patients with structural cardiac abnormalities or other serious cardiac disease who were treated with CNS stimulants at the recommended ADHD dosage. Avoid MAS-ER Capsule use in patients with known structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious cardiac arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac disease. 5.3 Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate CNS stimulants may cause an increase in blood pressure (mean increase approximately 2 to 4 mmHg) and heart rate (mean increase approximately 3 to 6 bpm). Monitor all MAS-ER Capsule-treated patients for hypertension and tachycardia. 5.4 Psychiatric Adverse Reactions Exacerbation of Pre-Existing Psychosis Administration of stimulants may exacerbate symptoms of behavior disturbance and thought disorder in patients with pre-existing psychotic disorder. Induction of a Manic Episode in Patients with Bipolar Disease CNS stimulants may induce a manic or mixed episode in patients. Prior to initiating MAS-ER Capsule treatment, screen patients for risk factors for developing a manic episode (e.g., comorbid or history of depressive symptoms or a family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, or depression). New Psychotic or Manic Symptoms CNS stimulants, at the recommended dosage, may cause psychotic or manic symptoms (e.g., hallucinations, delusional thinking, or mania) in patients without a prior history of psychotic illness or mania. In a pooled analysis of multiple short-term, placebo-controlled studies of CNS stimulants, psychotic or manic symptoms occurred in approximately 0.1% of CNS stimulant-treated patients compared to 0% of placebo-treated patients. If such symptoms occur, consider discontinuing MAS-ER Capsules. 5.5 Long-Term Suppression of Growth in Pediatric Patients CNS stimulants have been associated with weight loss and slowing of growth rate in pediatric patients. Closely monitor growth (weight and height) in MAS-ER Capsule-treated pediatric patients treated with CNS stimulants. In a controlled trial of MAS-ER Capsules in adolescents, mean weight change from baseline within the initial 4 weeks of therapy was –1.1 lbs. and –2.8 lbs., respectively, for patients receiving 10 and 20 mg MAS-ER Capsules. Higher doses were associated with greater weight loss within the initial 4 weeks of treatment. Chronic use of amphetamines can be expected to cause a similar suppression of growth [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . Pediatric patients who are not growing or gaining weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted. 5.6 Seizures There is some clinical evidence that stimulants may lower the convulsive threshold in patients with prior history of seizures, in patients with prior EEG abnormalities in the absence of seizures, and very rarely, in patients without a history of seizures and no prior EEG evidence of seizures. In the presence of seizures, MAS-ER Capsules should be discontinued. 5.7 Peripheral Vasculopathy, Including Raynaud’s Phenomenon CNS stimulants, including MAS-ER Capsules, used to treat ADHD are associated with peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon. Signs and symptoms are usually intermittent and mild; however, sequelae have included digital ulceration and/or soft tissue breakdown. Effects of peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon, were observed in postmarketing reports and at the therapeutic dosage of CNS stimulants in all age groups throughout the course of treatment. Signs and symptoms generally improved after dosage reduction or discontinuation of the CNS stimulant. Careful observation for digital changes is necessary during MAS-ER Capsule treatment. Further clinical evaluation (e.g., rheumatology referral) may be appropriate for MAS-ER Capsule-treated patients who develop signs or symptoms of peripheral vasculopathy. 5.8 Serotonin Syndrome Serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening reaction, may occur when amphetamines are used in combination with other drugs that affect the serotonergic neurotransmitter systems such as MAOIs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, tryptophan, buspirone, and St. John's Wort [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . Amphetamines and amphetamine derivatives are known to be metabolized, to some degree, by cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) and display minor inhibition of CYP2D6 metabolism [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . The potential for a pharmacokinetic interaction exists with the coadministration of CYP2D6 inhibitors which may increase the risk with increased exposure to MAS-ER Capsules. In these situations, consider an alternative nonserotonergic drug or an alternative drug that does not inhibit CYP2D6 [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . Serotonin syndrome symptoms may include mental status changes (e.g., agitation, hallucinations, delirium, and coma), autonomic instability (e.g., tachycardia, labile blood pressure,…

Who should not take Adderall XR

MAS-ER Capsules administration is contraindicated in patients: known to be hypersensitive to amphetamine, or other components of MAS-ER Capsules. Hypersensitivity reactions such as angioedema and anaphylactic reactions have been reported in patients treated with other amphetamine products [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ]. taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or within 14 days of stopping MAOIs (including MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue), because of an increased risk of hypertensive crisis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) , Drug Interactions (7.1) ] Known hypersensitivity or idiosyncrasy to amphetamine ( 4 ) During or within 14 days following the administration of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) ( 4 , 7.1 )

Overdose — what happens if you take too much

Clinical Effects of Overdose Overdose of CNS stimulants is characterized by the following sympathomimetic effects: Cardiovascular effects including tachyarrhythmias, and hypertension or hypotension. Vasospasm, myocardial infarction, or aortic dissection may precipitate sudden cardiac death. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy may develop. CNS effects including psychomotor agitation, confusion, and hallucinations. Serotonin syndrome, seizures, cerebral vascular accidents, and coma may occur. Life-threatening hyperthermia (temperatures greater than 104°F) and rhabdomyolysis may develop. Overdose Management Consider the possibility of multiple drug ingestion. The pharmacokinetic profile of MAS-ER Capsules should be considered when treating patients with overdose. D-amphetamine is not dialyzable. Consider contacting the Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) or a medical toxicologist for additional overdose management recommendations.

U.S. Poison Control: call or text 1-800-222-1222 (free, 24/7). In an emergency call 911. From the FDA label; not medical advice.

Interactions

Alkalinizing agents (GI antacids and urinary): These agents increase blood levels of amphetamine. ( 2.7 , 7.1 ) Acidifying agents (GI and urinary): These agents reduce blood levels of amphetamine. ( 7.1 ) 7.1 Clinically Important Interactions with Amphetamines Table 4: Drugs Having Clinically Important Interactions with Amphetamines Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) Clinical Impact Concomitant use of MAOIs and CNS stimulants can cause hypertensive crisis. Potential outcomes include death, stroke, myocardial infarction, aortic dissection, ophthalmological complications, eclampsia, pulmonary edema, and renal failure. Intervention Do not administer MAS-ER Capsules concomitantly or within 14 days after discontinuing MAOI [see Contraindications (4) ] . Serotonergic Drugs Clinical Impact The concomitant use of MAS-ER Capsules and serotonergic drugs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Intervention Initiate with lower doses and monitor patients for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome, particularly during MAS-ER Capsules initiation or dosage increase. If serotonin syndrome occurs, discontinue MAS-ER Capsules and the concomitant serotonergic drug(s) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] . CYP2D6 Inhibitors Clinical Impact The concomitant use of MAS-ER Capsules and CYP2D6 inhibitors may increase the exposure of MAS-ER Capsules compared to the use of the drug alone and increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Intervention Initiate with lower doses and monitor patients for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome particularly during MAS-ER Capsules initiation and after a dosage increase. If serotonin syndrome occurs, discontinue MAS-ER Capsules and the CYP2D6 inhibitor [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) , Overdosage (10) ] . Alkalinizing Agents Clinical Impact Increase blood levels and potentiate the action of amphetamine. Intervention Coadministration of MAS-ER Capsules and gastrointestinal or urinary alkalinizing agents should be avoided. Acidifying Agents Clinical Impact Lower blood levels and efficacy of amphetamines. Intervention Increase dose based on clinical response. Tricyclic Antidepressants Clinical Impact May enhance the activity of tricyclic or sympathomimetic agents causing striking and sustained increases in the concentration of d-amphetamine in the brain; cardiovascular effects can be potentiated. Intervention Monitor frequently and adjust or use alternative therapy based on clinical response. Proton Pump Inhibitors Clinical Impact Time to maximum concentration (T max ) of amphetamine is decreased compared to when administered alone. Intervention Monitor patients for changes in clinical effect and adjust therapy based on clinical response. 7.2 Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions Amphetamines can cause a significant elevation in plasma corticosteroid levels. This increase is greatest in the evening. Amphetamines may interfere with urinary steroid determinations.

How long does Dextroamphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Amphetamine Sulfate and Amphetamine Aspartate stay in your body?

The elimination half-life of dextroamphetamine sulfate, dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine sulfate and amphetamine aspartate is about 10 to 11 hours for d-amphetamine (range 9.8 to 11 hours) and about 12 to 14 hours for l-amphetamine (range 11.5 to 13.8 hours) in healthy adults — the time it takes the body to clear about half of it. As a rule of thumb, a medicine is mostly gone after roughly 4 to 5 half-lives, though this varies from person to person with age and kidney or liver function. These are elimination half-lives for the two amphetamine isomers themselves; l-amphetamine clears more slowly than d-amphetamine. Elimination speeds up in acidic urine and slows in alkaline urine, and can be prolonged by kidney or liver problems.

This is general information, not medical advice. It doesn’t tell you when a drug test would read negative (tests detect substances for different, often longer, windows) or when it’s safe to take another dose — ask your pharmacist or prescriber. Source: Adderall (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) CII tablet — FDA/DailyMed label, Clinical Pharmacology.

Dosage forms

Capsule, extended release

The forms currently marketed in the U.S., per the FDA National Drug Code Directory.

Ways to save

Ask for the generic

Same active ingredient, far cheaper. Is there a generic? →

Request a 90-day supply

Bulk fills usually lower the per-dose price vs monthly refills.

Use copay cards

Manufacturer copay cards & patient-assistance programs — especially for brand drugs.

Compare alternatives

A same-class option may cost less. See alternatives →

Frequently asked questions

Is there a coupon or discount for Adderall XR?
pharmaranks is an independent ratings site, not a pharmacy — we don't issue coupons or sell Adderall XR. To pay less, ask your prescriber or pharmacist whether a generic equivalent exists, check the manufacturer's copay/savings card and patient-assistance program, and compare a pharmacy discount card against your insurance copay. Prices vary by pharmacy, insurance, and location, so always confirm at the counter. This is general reference, not medical or financial advice.
Who makes Adderall XR?
Adderall XR is marketed by Takeda Pharms USA. You can see Takeda Pharms USA's full profile, rating, and other products on pharmaranks.
Is Adderall XR a brand-name or generic drug?
Adderall XR is a brand-name product with the active ingredient Dextroamphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Amphetamine Sulfate and Amphetamine Aspartate.
Is Adderall XR available over the counter?
No. Adderall XR is a prescription (Rx) medication in the US — you need a prescription from a licensed clinician (in person or via telehealth); it isn't sold over the counter. For some conditions there are OTC alternatives — ask your pharmacist.
What forms does Adderall XR come in?
Adderall XR is currently marketed as capsule, extended release, per the FDA's National Drug Code Directory.
Is Adderall XR FDA-registered?
Adderall XR is on record with the U.S. FDA under application number NDA021303. You can verify this on its official FDA label.
Is Adderall XR safe?
There's no single safe-or-not verdict, and we don't yet have a composite recall-safety score for Adderall XR. Review its FDA-label side effects and warnings below, and always consult a licensed professional.
What are the side effects of Adderall XR?
Adderall XR's side effects are taken directly from its FDA label. From the label: The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.2 ,… Both common and serious reactions are documented in full on this page. This is general reference from the FDA, not medical advice — always consult a professional.

Clinical content sourced from the FDA label via openFDA (U.S. FDA). View the FDA label on DailyMed → Provided for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional and the current prescribing information.

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to write one.

Write a review

Reviews are user opinions, not medical advice. Consult a licensed professional.

People also viewed

Compare Adderall XR head-to-head

Identify a pill by its imprint →Check a drug interaction →Drug recalls →

Browse medications A–Z

Research products from A to Z, compare independent ratings, and find alternatives.

adderall xr

New