Is Adderall a controlled substance and addictive?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on Oct 29, 2024.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Yes, Adderall is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). It is a central nervous system stimulant with a high potential for abuse or drug dependence.

Keep Adderall in a safe place away from others to prevent misuse and abuse. Selling or giving away Adderall may harm others, and is against the law.

Adderall is approved by the FDA to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It contains mixed salts of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, stimulating drugs that work in the brain to help control hyperactivity and impulse control.

Because these medicines are stimulants, many people inappropriately use them to stay awake and alert for work or study. Others may mix amphetamines with alcohol or illegal or mind-altering drugs for the euphoric ("high") effects.

Does Adderall contain a warning about drug abuse / addiction?

Yes, amphetamines like Adderall are a highly sought-after and abusable prescription medicines. Some people take these medicines at doses that are many times higher than recommended, which can lead to severe side effects.

Adderall contains a Boxed Warning, the FDA’s most prominent warning, stating that amphetamines have a high potential for abuse. In general it says:

Prolonged administration may lead to drug dependence / addiction and should be avoided.
Importantly, some people may try to obtain amphetamines (like Adderall) for non-medical use or to give or sell to others.
Amphetamine should be prescribed or dispensed sparingly by healthcare providers.

In addition, misuse of amphetamine may lead to sudden death or serious heart-related side effects. Other heart-problems can include: stroke, heart attack, increased blood pressure and increased heart rate.

Long-term intoxication due to amphetamines can cause side effects like:

severe skin conditions
severe insomnia (trouble sleeping)
irritability and mood changes
hyperactivity
personality changes
psychosis (such as hearing voices, believing things that are not true, being suspicious)

Tell your healthcare provider if you or your child has ever abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines or street drugs. Tell them if these is a family history of this type of problem. You or a family member may high a higher risk for abuse or addiction to this medicine.

How long does Adderall withdrawal last?

It is difficult to say exactly how long Adderall withdrawal lasts because it depends on the person and the process is different for everyone. Some people’s withdrawal symptoms may resolve in as little as 5 days, others may still be experiencing symptoms 4 weeks later or even longer. People who have taken Adderall for a long time at a high dose should expect withdrawal symptoms to last longer, sometimes several months. Continue reading

Focalin vs Adderall: What's the difference?

Focalin contains dexmethylphenidate whereas Adderall contains a mixture of amphetamine salts (MAS). Both have a high potential for abuse and dependence, although the risk may be perceived as higher with Adderall because it is more popular; however, this does not mean Focalin is less likely to cause tolerance or dependence. Continue reading

Does Adderall help with anxiety and depression?

Although Adderall is only FDA-approved for the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, it has been used rarely and off-label to treat depression that has not responded to other treatments. However, this is controversial and there is a lack of good quality evidence to support its use. There is no evidence that Adderall helps with anxiety and in many people with pre-existing mood disorders, Adderall can make depression and/or anxiety worse. Continue reading

Drug information

Adderall Information for Consumers
Adderall prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
Side Effects of Adderall (detailed)

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