What Strength is Yellow Adderall? A Guide to Identification and Pharmacology

October 8, 2025 •

3 min read

Yellow Adderall is most commonly associated with a generic 30 mg amphetamine salt tablet, but pill colors alone are an unreliable way to identify a medication. The appearance of any tablet or capsule can vary based on the manufacturer, and it is crucial to use the imprint code for accurate identification. This guide will help you understand what strength is yellow Adderall, what to look for, and the pharmacology behind this stimulant medication.

Quick Summary

A yellow Adderall pill typically indicates a generic 30 mg immediate-release tablet manufactured by certain companies like Sun Pharmaceutical Industries. It is important to know that colors can differ significantly among manufacturers, and brand-name versions of the same strength may be light orange. For accurate identification, rely on the imprint and consult your pharmacist.

Key Points

Generic 30 mg Tablets are Often Yellow: A specific generic 30 mg amphetamine salt tablet, imprinted 'MP 447', is known to be yellow and round.
Brand Name vs. Generic Color Variation: Higher-dose brand-name Adderall tablets (12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg) contain a yellow dye but are typically described as peach or orange.
Imprint Codes are Reliable: The only dependable way to verify a pill's strength and manufacturer is by checking the imprint code on the tablet or capsule.
Two Main Formulations Exist: Adderall comes in Immediate-Release (IR) tablets and Extended-Release (XR) capsules, which have different durations of action and appearances.
High Potential for Abuse: As a Schedule II controlled substance, Adderall has a high potential for abuse and dependence, and should only be used as prescribed.
Safety Precautions are Necessary: Never rely on pill color alone for identification, and always consult a healthcare provider with any questions about your medication.

The Yellow Adderall: Decoding the 30mg Generic Tablet

A yellow Adderall pill typically refers to a generic 30 mg amphetamine and dextroamphetamine tablet. For example, the 30 mg generic manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries is described as a round, yellow tablet with the imprint "MP 447". While the active ingredients are the same as brand-name Adderall, the appearance can vary due to different dyes and formulations used by manufacturers. This variation means that relying on color alone for identification is not recommended.

Why Pill Color is Not a Reliable Indicator

Pill identification should not rely solely on color because the FDA allows generic manufacturers to use different colors and shapes as long as the active ingredients and effectiveness are equivalent to the brand name. For instance, while some generic Adderall tablets are yellow, brand-name Adderall tablets of certain higher strengths (12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg) contain yellow dye but are often described as peach or orange. The 30 mg brand-name immediate-release (IR) tablet is light orange and oval. To accurately identify a pill, it is essential to use the imprint code and consult online databases or a pharmacist.

Understanding Adderall Formulations: IR vs. XR

Adderall comes in two main forms: immediate-release (IR) tablets and extended-release (XR) capsules, which have different mechanisms and appearances.

Key differences between Adderall IR and XR:

Formulation: IR is an uncoated tablet with immediate drug release, while XR is a capsule with a dual-bead system for immediate and delayed release.
Duration of Action: IR lasts about 4 to 6 hours, requiring multiple daily doses, while XR can last up to 12 hours with once-daily dosing.
Appearance: IR tablets are solid and imprinted. XR capsules are often two-toned or opaque with the dosage marked; the 30 mg XR is orange and clear.

Comparison of Common Adderall Strengths and Appearance

This table shows common brand-name Adderall IR tablets. Generic versions will have different imprints and colors.


Strength (IR)	Color	Shape	Imprint (Brand Name)
5 mg	White	Round	AD 5
7.5 mg	Blue	Oval	AD 7.5
10 mg	Blue	Round	AD 10
12.5 mg	Peach	Round	AD 12.5
15 mg	Light Orange	Oval	AD 15
20 mg	Orange	Round	AD 20
30 mg	Light Orange	Oval	AD 30

The Pharmacology Behind Adderall

Adderall is a CNS stimulant containing four amphetamine salts, with a 3:1 ratio of dextroamphetamine to levoamphetamine. These amphetamines boost dopamine and norepinephrine activity in the brain, which helps with attention and focus. Dextroamphetamine is a more potent CNS stimulant with a greater impact on reward pathways, while levoamphetamine has stronger cardiovascular effects and a longer half-life. This specific ratio contributes to Adderall's effectiveness in treating ADHD and narcolepsy.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Concerns

Adderall, a Schedule II controlled substance, carries a high risk of abuse and dependence. Common side effects include nervousness, headache, insomnia, dry mouth, and weight loss. More serious effects can involve heart issues like increased heart rate and blood pressure, or psychiatric symptoms such as aggression and paranoia. Patients with heart conditions need to be particularly cautious. It is crucial to use Adderall only as prescribed and never to self-medicate or change the dose.

Conclusion

While a yellow color often indicates a generic 30 mg amphetamine salt tablet, relying on color alone for identification is risky due to manufacturer variations. The most reliable method is to use the pill's imprint code and consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist. Always prioritize safety by verifying your medication with a professional. Understanding the differences between IR and XR, the drug's pharmacology, and potential side effects are also vital for safe treatment. For comprehensive information, always refer to official drug databases and seek guidance from a healthcare provider. You can find more information from the official FDA drug database.

Frequently Asked Questions

A yellow Adderall pill is most commonly a generic 30 mg immediate-release tablet. One specific example is a yellow, round tablet with the imprint "MP 447".

Yes, there can be a significant difference in appearance. While some generics are distinctly yellow, brand-name Adderall tablets in higher strengths that contain a yellow dye are often described as peach or orange.

Pharmaceutical companies use color dyes to help with pill identification by strength. The specific color chosen, however, can vary by manufacturer and is not a reliable indicator without checking the imprint.

The safest method is to use the imprint code stamped on the tablet or capsule. You can then cross-reference this code on a reliable pill identification website or confirm with your pharmacist.

While generic formulations vary, a yellow pill most often corresponds to a 30 mg tablet. Always confirm with your pharmacist, as pill colors can be inconsistent and relying on them is unsafe.

Certain strengths of brand-name Adderall (12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg) contain a yellow dye, but are often referred to by other colors like peach or orange. Extended-release (XR) capsules may also be partially yellow or orange.

Yes, taking the wrong strength can be dangerous. Overdosing can lead to serious side effects, including heart problems, high blood pressure, and psychiatric issues. Always take Adderall exactly as prescribed by your doctor.