What type of salt is Adderall?: A Comprehensive Look at Mixed Amphetamine Salts

Adderall, a widely recognized prescription medication for ADHD and narcolepsy, is not a single compound but a precise combination of four different amphetamine salts. This unique mixture, containing both dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine isomers, is formulated to provide a balanced and therapeutic effect for patients.

Quick Summary

Adderall is composed of a mixture of four specific amphetamine salts, blending the effects of both dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine isomers. This combination creates a balanced central nervous system stimulant for treating ADHD and narcolepsy.

Key Points

• Mixed Salt Formulation: Adderall contains four specific amphetamine salts: dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate.

• Isomeric Ratio: The active ingredients consist of a 3:1 ratio of dextroamphetamine (d-amphetamine) to levoamphetamine (l-amphetamine).

• Balanced Effects: The combination of isomers provides a balanced therapeutic effect, with d-amphetamine primarily affecting mental focus and l-amphetamine contributing to physical energy.

• Different Formulations: Both immediate-release (IR) tablets and extended-release (XR) capsules contain the same mixed salts but differ in their release mechanisms and duration of action.

• Pharmacological Action: As a CNS stimulant, Adderall increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps regulate attention and impulsivity.

• Controlled Substance: Due to its high potential for abuse and dependence, Adderall is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA.

Adderall is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Its unique formulation, often referred to as mixed amphetamine salts, consists of a precise blend of four different amphetamine salts. This blend includes both immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (XR) versions, designed to offer a unique therapeutic profile compared to single-isomer amphetamine medications. This combination aims to improve focus, attention, and impulse control for those with ADHD.

The Four Amphetamine Salts in Adderall

Adderall's formulation is a carefully balanced mix of equal parts racemic amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, resulting in a 3:1 ratio of dextroamphetamine to levoamphetamine isomers. The specific salts found in both IR and XR formulations are:

• Dextroamphetamine Saccharate: A dextro isomer salt contributing to mental focus.
• Amphetamine Aspartate Monohydrate: A racemic salt providing a balanced effect.
• Dextroamphetamine Sulfate: Another dextro isomer salt enhancing CNS stimulation.
• Amphetamine Sulfate: A racemic sulfate salt adding to overall stimulation.

The Importance of Isomers: Dextroamphetamine vs. Levoamphetamine

Amphetamine exists as two stereoisomers, dextroamphetamine (d-amphetamine) and levoamphetamine (l-amphetamine), each with distinct pharmacological properties. Adderall's mixed-salt formula utilizes both isomers:

• Dextroamphetamine: The more potent isomer with a stronger impact on the CNS, affecting dopamine and norepinephrine in areas related to attention.
• Levoamphetamine: Less potent centrally, but providing stronger peripheral effects, including increased physical energy.

The 3:1 ratio of d- to l-amphetamine in Adderall balances these effects, with d-amphetamine targeting cognitive function and l-amphetamine contributing to physical effects, creating a more comprehensive stimulant profile.

Immediate-Release vs. Extended-Release Formulations

Aderall comes in immediate-release (IR) tablets and extended-release (XR) capsules, both containing the same four salts but with different delivery systems.

• Adderall (IR): Provides a rapid release of medication, with effects lasting around 4 to 6 hours. Multiple doses may be needed daily.
• Adderall XR: Features a double-pulsed delivery system for effects lasting 8 to 12 hours with a single dose.

Comparison of Dextroamphetamine and Levoamphetamine

Feature	Dextroamphetamine (d-amphetamine)	Levoamphetamine (l-amphetamine)
Potency	More potent CNS stimulant	Less potent CNS stimulant
Primary Effect	Stronger effect on cognitive functions, attention, and focus	Stronger peripheral and cardiovascular effects
Energy Boost	Contributes to mental focus and alertness	Contributes more to physical energy and wakefulness
Effect Profile	Predominantly targets dopamine	Modulates overall stimulant effects alongside dextroamphetamine

Conclusion

Adderall is a mixed amphetamine salt product containing four specific salts: dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate. This blend, featuring a 3:1 ratio of dextroamphetamine to levoamphetamine isomers, creates a balanced CNS stimulant effective for ADHD and narcolepsy. Understanding this composition is key to appreciating its therapeutic actions.

For more detailed prescribing information, refer to the FDA-approved drug label for ADDERALL®.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the generic name for Adderall?

The generic name for Adderall is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts, often referred to as 'mixed amphetamine salts' or 'amphetamine/dextroamphetamine salt combo'.

What is the difference between Adderall and Adderall XR?

Adderall is an immediate-release tablet, while Adderall XR is an extended-release capsule. Both contain the same mixed amphetamine salts, but Adderall XR uses a bead system to release the medication over a longer period, typically lasting 8 to 12 hours compared to the 4 to 6 hours of the IR version.

Does Adderall contain methamphetamine?

No, Adderall does not contain methamphetamine. While both are stimulants, they have different chemical structures. Prescription methamphetamine (Desoxyn) exists but is different and much more rarely prescribed due to its high abuse potential.

Why does Adderall contain different amphetamine salts?

The blend of four amphetamine salts, including both dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine isomers, is designed to provide a balanced and broad range of effects. The combination addresses both mental focus and physical energy, creating a smoother therapeutic profile.

What is the primary function of dextroamphetamine in Adderall?

Dextroamphetamine is the more potent central nervous system stimulant isomer in Adderall. Its primary function is to enhance cognitive control, improve attention, and boost focus by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels.

What is the role of levoamphetamine in Adderall?

While less potent centrally than dextroamphetamine, levoamphetamine in Adderall is responsible for stronger peripheral effects, which can increase physical energy and produce a more sustained alerting effect.

Is the generic version of Adderall the same?

The generic version of Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) contains the same four active amphetamine salts. However, inactive ingredients may differ slightly between generic manufacturers, though this does not affect the drug's therapeutic action for most people.