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Adderall Side Effects

Generic name: amphetamine / dextroamphetamine

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 22, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Adderall Side Effects associated with amphetamine / dextroamphetamine. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Adderall.

Applies to amphetamine / dextroamphetamine: oral capsule extended release, oral tablet.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

Oral route (capsule, extended release; tablet)

Amphetamine 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 amphetamine, can result in overdose and death, and this risk is increased with higher doses or unapproved methods of administration, such as snorting or injection.

Before prescribing amphetamines, 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 amphetamine treatment, reassess each patient’s risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction.

Serious side effects of Adderall

Along with its needed effects, amphetamine/dextroamphetamine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking amphetamine / dextroamphetamine:

More common side effects

  • bladder pain
  • bloody or cloudy urine
  • difficult, burning, or painful urination
  • fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse
  • frequent urge to urinate
  • lower back or side pain

Less common side effects

  • chills
  • cough
  • diarrhea
  • fever
  • general feeling of discomfort or illness
  • headache
  • hoarseness
  • joint pain
  • loss of appetite
  • muscle aches and pains
  • nausea
  • runny nose
  • shivering
  • sore throat
  • sweating
  • trouble sleeping
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
  • vomiting

Incidence not known

  • blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin
  • chest pain, discomfort, or tightness
  • confusion
  • dark urine
  • difficulty breathing
  • difficulty with speaking
  • difficulty with swallowing
  • dizziness
  • double vision
  • faintness
  • inability to move the arms, legs, or facial muscles
  • inability to speak
  • itching, skin rash
  • large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or genitals
  • loss of bladder control
  • muscle cramps or stiffness
  • muscle spasm or jerking of the arms and legs
  • pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck
  • red skin lesions, often with a purple center
  • red, irritated eyes
  • seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there
  • seizures
  • slow speech
  • sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips
  • sudden loss of consciousness
  • swelling of the feet or lower legs
  • uncontrolled repeated movements (tics)
  • uncontrolled vocal outbursts
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking amphetamine / dextroamphetamine:

Symptoms of overdose

Other side effects of Adderall

Some side effects of amphetamine / dextroamphetamine may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

  • anxiety
  • dry mouth
  • lack or loss of strength
  • stomach pain
  • weight loss

Incidence not known

  • constipation
  • decreased interest in sexual intercourse
  • false or unusual sense of well-being
  • inability to have or keep an erection
  • loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance
  • twitching, twisting, uncontrolled repetitive movements of the tongue, lips, face, arms, or legs

Managing side effects (general information)

For healthcare professionals

Applies to amphetamine / dextroamphetamine: oral capsule extended release, oral tablet.

Metabolic adverse events

Gastrointestinal

Cardiovascular

Psychiatric

Nervous system

Dermatologic

Endocrine

Genitourinary

Other

Respiratory

Hypersensitivity

Ocular

Musculoskeletal

References

1. (2001) "Product Information. Adderall (amphetamine-dextroamphetamine)." Shire Richwood Pharmaceutical Company Inc

2. (2001) "Product Information. Adderall XR (amphetamine-dextroamphetamine)." Shire Richwood Pharmaceutical Company Inc

Frequently asked questions

Further information

Adderall side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer