Adderall Dosage
Calculate the recommended starting dose of Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) for ADHD and narcolepsy. Free online dosing reference tool based on FDA-approved guidelines.
About This Calculator
The Adderall Dosage Calculator helps patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals determine the recommended starting dose of Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) based on FDA-approved prescribing guidelines. Whether you are starting treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Narcolepsy, this tool provides the typical starting dose, dosing frequency, maximum daily dose, and number of tablets needed for your available tablet strength.
Adderall dosage is calculated based on the patient's age, the condition being treated, and the formulation (immediate-release IR or extended-release XR). For ADHD in children aged 3-5, the starting dose is 2.5 mg IR once or twice daily. Children aged 6-17 typically start at 5 mg IR once or twice daily. Adults with ADHD start at 5 mg IR once or twice daily, or 20 mg XR once daily. For narcolepsy, children 6-11 start at 5 mg once daily, while those 12 and older start at 10 mg once daily. The maximum recommended daily dose is 40 mg for ADHD and 60 mg for narcolepsy in adults.
Important Safety Information
Adderall is a federally controlled substance (CII) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. It should be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Common side effects include dry mouth, loss of appetite, insomnia, headache, and weight loss. Serious cardiovascular events, including sudden death in patients with pre-existing heart conditions, have been reported. This calculator provides general dosing guidelines based on the official prescribing information — your doctor may adjust your dose based on your individual response, kidney function, and other medications you are taking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical starting dose of Adderall for adults with ADHD?
For adults with ADHD, the typical starting dose of Adderall immediate-release (IR) is 5 mg taken once or twice daily. The dose may be increased by 5 mg weekly. For Adderall XR (extended-release), the starting dose is 20 mg once daily. The maximum recommended daily dose for ADHD is 40 mg.
What is the starting Adderall dose for children with ADHD?
For children aged 3-5 years with ADHD, the starting dose of Adderall IR is 2.5 mg once or twice daily, increased by 2.5 mg weekly. For children aged 6-17, the starting dose is 5 mg once or twice daily, increased by 5 mg weekly. For Adderall XR, children 6-12 start at 5 mg once daily, while adolescents 13-17 start at 10 mg once daily.
How is Adderall dosage calculated for narcolepsy?
For narcolepsy treatment, Adderall is typically taken as immediate-release tablets. Children aged 6-11 start at 5 mg once daily, increased by 5 mg weekly. Adolescents 12-17 and adults start at 10 mg once daily, increased by 10 mg weekly. The maximum daily dose for adult narcolepsy treatment is 60 mg.
What tablet strengths are available for Adderall?
Adderall immediate-release tablets are available in strengths of 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg. Adderall XR extended-release capsules are available in 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, and 30 mg strengths. This calculator helps determine how many tablets of your prescribed strength equal the recommended starting dose.
Is it safe to use this calculator as a substitute for medical advice?
No, this calculator is for informational and educational purposes only. It cannot replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting Adderall, adjusting your dose, or changing your medication regimen. Adderall is a controlled substance with potential for abuse and dependence.
What factors affect the appropriate Adderall dosage?
The appropriate Adderall dosage depends on several factors including the patient's age, the condition being treated (ADHD or narcolepsy), kidney function, other medical conditions, and individual response to treatment. Doctors typically start with a low dose and titrate upward slowly based on therapeutic response and side effects. This calculator provides guidelines only — your doctor will determine the right dose for you.
How often can Adderall be taken each day?
Adderall IR (immediate-release) is typically taken 1-2 times daily, with doses spaced 4-6 hours apart. The first dose should be taken upon waking. Adderall XR (extended-release) is taken once daily in the morning. Extended-release formulations provide symptom coverage for 10-12 hours with a single dose, while IR formulations last about 4-6 hours per dose.
What are the common side effects of Adderall?
Common side effects of Adderall include insomnia, decreased appetite, dry mouth, headache, stomach ache, nausea, dizziness, and weight loss. More serious side effects can include increased heart rate, high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, psychosis, and serotonin syndrome. Adderall has a high potential for abuse and dependence. Seek emergency medical attention for chest pain, shortness of breath, or signs of allergic reaction.