What Does Adderall Do for You?

Adderall XR (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts) is a stimulant medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. By improving how brain chemicals work, it works by improving focus, attention, and concentration. In some cases, it can help calm people who have hyperactive symptoms.

Adderall XR (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts) is a central nervous system stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. When taken as directed, Adderall is useful in treating people who have these conditions.

For people who have ADHD, Adderall targets the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, and it works to improve focus, attention, and concentration. Even though it is a stimulant, it has what is called a “paradoxical effect,” meaning it can help calm people who have hyperactive symptoms. ADHD medicines improve attention by helping normal brain chemicals work better.

• The stimulant properties of Adderall are also useful in helping combat excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) in patients with narcolepsy. 
• Adderall is also a drug of abuse, taken without a prescription by people who want to stay awake longer. But the risks of taking Adderall for uses other than indicated, when not prescribed, or when not used as directed can be serious.
• Increased blood pressure, palpitations, enlarged heart (cardiomyopathy) can lead to heart failure, stroke, and even sudden death can occur.
• The drug can also aggravate pre-existing conditions such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, or schizophrenia.