Adderall is a prescription stimulant that can boost energy and concentration and, in high enough doses, provide euphoria. 1 It is commonly abused for its stimulant effects, despite being recommended for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy2. Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine are both components of the pharmacological combination known as Adderall. Adderall has several slang names when purchased illegally: “black beauties,” “uppers,” and “speed.” 1
In light of Adderall’s potentially significant abuse and dependence, the drug is placed in schedule II of the prohibited substances’ classification system.
1,2 Both immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (XR) capsules and tablets are available for this stimulant. The effects of Adderall XR may persist all day long, but those of Adderall IR last only 4 to 6 hours. 3 Adderall XR and IR have the same potential for creating physical dependency, tolerance, and addiction.