I was recently diagnosed with ADHD and prescribed 10mg of instant release Adderall, to be taken once a day. I've read that normally, one should take two IR tablets a day, as the effects wear off after 4 to 5 hours. Is this a normal starting dose so the doctor can see how your body responds to the medication, or is it just too low a dose?
Is 10 mg of instant release Adderall once a day a normal starting dose?
Question posted by d0324 on 7 Feb 2019
Last updated on 7 February 2019 by adpivott
Answers
My doctor started me on 5mg twice a day for the first 2-3 weeks to make sure I didn’t have any issues with side effects. I went to 10mg twice daily for about the next 9-12 months and then upped to 20mg twice/day and have been at that dose for the last 6 or so years. I’d say 10mg/daily to start is right.
Also, it’s probably wise of the doctor to start you on one dose a day, the stimulant effects of Adderall can be very strong. While the effects of Adderall mainly last 4-5 hours, my experience is that it still lingers for several hours after that initial working period. When I first went on it, anytime I took my second dose after 2pm, I’d struggle hard to fall asleep that night, often laying in bed awake until 2 or 3am.
Did your doctor say to check in after a set period of time to discuss how it’s working and possible change in frequency and/or dosage? If not, I’d recommend you do it anyways, especially if you feel like you need to change something. Overall, I think the dosage and frequency is good while you’re starting out, while your body is “learning” the drug.
Related topics
adderall, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhd), dosage, prescription, diagnosis, tablet
Further information
- Adderall uses and safety info
- Adderall prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Adderall (detailed)
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