Generic Adderall is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine – the drugs that belong to the pharmacological agents called stimulants. It is a prescription-only drug used to improve the ability to pay attention, stay focused, and control behavior problems.
Uses
Generic Adderall is to be used only under the supervision of a doctor. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of Adderall in 2002 for the following two conditions:
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Adderall is predominantly prescribed for ADHD because it helps in improving the symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. The drug works by increasing the secretion of brain chemicals such as dopamine and norepinephrine.
Narcolepsy: Narcolepsy is one of the common neurological disorders characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness or sleep paralysis. Generic Adderall has been found helpful in narcoleptic people – thanks to its wakefulness-promoting effects. The drug works on improving dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, which promote wakefulness.
Brand Name and Manufacturers
Adderall is a brand name of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, which is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. The FDA has approved a generic version of Adderall. However, this does not mean that the product will necessarily be commercially available due to drug patents and drug exclusivity, according to Drugs.com.
Generic Adderall is available in other nations. Drug manufacturers such as Actavis Elizabeth, Alvogen, Aurolife Pharma, Barr, Elite Labs Inc., Epic Pharma, Mylan, Nesher Pharms, Nuvo Pharm, Rhodes Pharms, Sandoz, Specgx, Sun Pharm Industries, and USPharma have their own generic versions of Adderall.
Cost
Generally, brand Adderall is a moderately priced prescription drug and Generic Adderall is much cheaper than the branded counterpart is. More importantly, generic versions of Adderall are covered by some Medicare and insurance plans. For 30 tablets, the lowest price for the most common version of Generic Adderall is around $14.49, which is 70% cheaper than brand Adderall that costs you $49.38, according to GoodRx.
Side Effects
Like brand Adderall, Generic Adderall may cause loss of appetite, dry mouth, upset stomach, weight changes, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, headaches, fever, nervousness, or trouble sleeping. If any of these side effects aggravate or stay for a longer duration, seek medical attention.
Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine may raise your blood pressure so make sure you have your blood pressure checked regularly during treatment. See your doctor right away if you experience any mental or mood changes such as aggression, agitation, palpitations, depression, or suicidal thoughts. Also, see your doctor promptly in case of shortness of breath, chest pain, severe headache or dizziness, or extreme fatigue.
Precautions
Generic Adderall is a prescription-only drug so you must use it under the supervision of your doctor. Self-medication is strictly prohibited. You must inform your doctor about your drug allergies and past/present medical conditions before using this ADHD medication. People allergic to either amphetamine or dextroamphetamine should not use Generic Adderall. Similarly, those serious health issues, especially those with a history of substance abuse, should not use the drug.
During treatment, one should avoid alcohol or marijuana because they may increase the risk of extreme dizziness. Also, one should not drive, operate machinery, or do things that need mental alertness. Children and older people may be more sensitive to the side effects of Generic Adderall, according to WebMD. This drug is usually not advised in pregnant women and nursing mothers.
Interactions
Interactions are a common aspect of all synthetic drugs and may change how the medications work or even increase the risk of serious side effects. Therefore, it is always advisable to have a list of all medications you use, including OTC or prescription drugs and herbal products, so you can share it with your prescribing doctor. Drugs that may interact adversely with Generic Adderall include antidepressants that belong to the class of pharmacological agents called MAO inhibitors, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).
