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Adderall XR for ADHD User Reviews (Page 2)

Reviews for Adderall XR

Commonly mentioned side effects
  • chr...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • July 16, 2014

"I was diagnosed with ADHD as a kid because I was our typical class clown that didn't do anything in class. My parents took me to the doctor and I was prescribed Adderall, and it did what it was supposed to, but I absolutely hated it because instead of playing at recess, I would just read a book, so I quit taking it. Fast forward to freshman year in college, I was completely overwhelmed with school, so I went back, got tested, and they put me on Vyvanse. It did the job, but I was so mad when I was on it, they switched me to Adderall. It does exactly what it is supposed to do, make you productive. I went from a 3.0 to a 3.8 from this medicine. But make sure you eat, if you are on it, your body will not tell you you're hungry."

9 / 10
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  • can...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • October 9, 2015

"I remember when I was 8 and put on glasses for the first time and was astounded that I could see each individual leaf. But I was more astounded that I had been living for years without that essential clarity. The first week taking Adderall XR was like that. At once, I had realized just how disabled I was, but also how capable I could be. Five months ago, I was on the brink of losing my retail job due to numerous register mistakes. After taking Adderall, my sales numbers are stellar, and I feel like I can go back to college again. The only negative is the weight loss, but since I was overweight anyway, that side effect is just fine by me. Insomnia is an issue, but not overly frequent. Taking it immediately in the AM solves it."

9 / 10
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  • eri...
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • June 11, 2016

"Before Adderall, couldn't keep a job longer than a few months. I changed majors in college over 6 times. I couldn't finish anything in my life. Four years ago, I went through a divorce and knew I was going to have to work full-time to support myself. I went to my doctor and told him everything. I was diagnosed with severe adult ADD and prescribed 20mg of Adderall XR once a day. Today, I am still at the same job, have been promoted, and in school to finish my master's degree. I can honestly say if it wasn't for Adderall, I have no idea where I would be. I now take 20mg XR two times a day and have for the last three years. It still works great. Lately, my moods have been all over the place, so I've seen a psychiatrist and am starting Lexapro in addition."

10 / 10
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Frequently asked questions

  • Kel...
  • April 24, 2013

"I've been taking Adderall since my sophomore year of high school, and I'm about halfway through college now. When I first started taking it, I went from D's and F's to straight A's. I loved everything. I wanted to learn everything. I also lost about twenty pounds just from the loss of appetite. But now that I've been on it for a few years, when I don't take it, the withdrawals hit so hard. I can't even remember what the real person I was before I started taking it. My appetite skyrockets, and I don't want to do anything but sit around all day. No motivation. I love being on it and being so productive, but sometimes I get so overly focused I get really irritable with people around me."

8 / 10
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  • Pol...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • May 29, 2016

"Since starting Adderall XR about 6 months ago, I am more focused and headstrong than ever. I can actually do the things I used to enjoy, such as birdwatching (which requires extreme focus) and practicing music (again, extreme focus). Once my attention locks in, I'm good to go, which is a first! Furthermore, it seems to help with my emotions; I feel more balanced and self-confident on it. I don't feel like such a 'headcase' and so emotionally fragile. Kind of sort of a miracle drug. Did it make me suddenly do things I have been putting off, such as cleaning and sorting out paperwork? No. But can I clean and do paperwork with more patience and ease? Yeah. The only side effects I experienced that were negative were extreme appetite suppression."

10 / 10
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  • Anonymous
  • Taken for 10 years or more
  • January 31, 2024

"Life-changing, paradigm-shifting drug for ADHD, combined type. I started with Ritalin, minimal improvement. My quality of life improved in all areas with Adderall XR, brand name is effective, smooth, and a miracle-wonder drug. Not the generic XR, avoid it at all costs! The generic gave me intense, bad side effects with minimal or no benefit. With the generic, I felt as if I took street drugs (haven’t ever, so I don’t really know), clenched my teeth, tensed my muscles, massive insomnia, generally tense and anxious both socially and professionally. I was diagnosed with ADHD in college at age 32, 18 years ago. After Adderall and only Adderall XR, I could drive safely, focus/concentrate, complete tasks before moving on to another task, and respond instead of react. No insomnia with the brand, I even nap on it sometimes! Helps with depression too."

9 / 10
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  • Bri...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • May 26, 2014

"Having been recently diagnosed with ADD at the age of 31, I would have to say that stimulant therapy has been a godsend! My doctor first prescribed Ritalin-SR, and I felt it was not as effective as it could be, so she changed my prescription to Adderall XR 20 mg and I feel it is working. I feel more focused at work with better concentration. I don't procrastinate as often as I have (my entire life), but one unexpected result of the therapy is I no longer feel irritable and short-tempered! I also don't feel frustrated as much as I used to. My staff and co-workers have noticed the difference and have told me they don't feel the need to 'walk on eggshells' around me! So in summation, Adderall is certainly doing the trick!"

8 / 10
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80 Report

More FAQ

  • Jar...
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • February 3, 2020

"Game changer. First DX by a pdoc: ADHD. What, no? Yes. I felt like I was only working with one puzzle piece, and finding out about ADHD was like being given the other 999 pieces. At first, Adderall IR didn’t seem to do much, but I slowly realized it was like putting emotional and mental blinders on, where I could see the rest of the world but mainly focus on the task at hand. Job saver for sure. Since I have a high tolerance to meds, XR saved me from constantly trying to remember to take the next dose when I started crashing. Tops."

10 / 10
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  • luv...
  • March 7, 2011

"Alright, if you're here, you probably already know most of this, but I'll say it anyway... This drug is f'ing amazing. I was a medical student before I accepted the fact that I had some serious issues with inattention. Some doctors/psychologists/etc. will try to tell you that you don't have ADD because you didn't beat kids up in class in elementary school, or because you managed to achieve some academic success, but let me tell you.. it's real son! I made it through med school with minimal use, but my surgical residency became a disaster quick. Please believe me when I tell you that this med single-handedly saved my career as a surgeon. If you have any doubts, it's worth your while to look into Adderall."

10 / 10
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  • dru...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • May 26, 2021

"I want to start out by noting it’s not a cure, in no way has it reversed the ADHD entirely. Nor has it changed who I am, which used to be a concern of mine when taking psychiatric medications. But that being said, it’s incredibly efficacious for the executive dysfunction aspect of ADHD. I almost can’t believe it. When I think of something I want to do, I actually do it now without hesitation and without having to plan for days and muster the energy. Nor do I feel completely depleted after. My executive function was so bad I would put off doing things I liked to do. I didn’t even realize it was this big of an issue until I started this medication. The downside is that it seems to wear off a bit early, and I found on forums that this is a common issue. So beware of crashing in the afternoon and discuss that with your doctor if it’s an issue. Either way, it’s a fantastic medication. I’m grateful."

10 / 10
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  • MLM...
  • August 19, 2017

"I have struggled with ADD since I was in grade school. Although diagnosed, my mother was not about putting me on medication. That being said, I struggled really bad until I graduated. I am now 22 and have been on almost any ADD/ADHD medication you can think of. To keep it short and sweet, Concerta and Focalin worked for about an hour, then I turned into a horrible person to be around - extreme mood swings, aggression, agitation, really easily annoyed, and hostile. My doctor decided to put me on Adderall XR 10 mg tablets, and let me tell you, it has saved my life! It lasts all day for me, I am more focused, my heart rate doesn't jump to extremes like it did on Focalin. It actually makes me more relaxed and enjoyable to be around. 10/10"

10 / 10
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  • Joj...
  • December 9, 2014

"I've been taking Adderall XR 25 mg for going on my 4th month. It has helped me tremendously! I'm more focused and alert now. I don't feel as drawn out like I used to. I'm also on anxiety medicine, taking both helps balance myself. I have a hard time wanting to eat since I've started taking Adderall. A lot of times I have to force myself to eat, but it has helped me lose 25 pounds! I find myself grinding my teeth a lot, not sure why, but that's the worst side effect I experience from taking it. I feel healthier now than I have in a long time, I will continue taking this medication."

10 / 10
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  • Anonymous
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • March 16, 2023

"Adderall XR is the only thing that has helped me be normal. The very first day on this medication, my anxiety was gone, the crushing pressure on my chest and racing thoughts were gone. I focused the majority of the day at work, was able to comprehend what people were saying to me, I did well on all my testing for nursing school. This medication has changed every aspect of my life. Now, after being on it for months, my insurance has taken it off the covered list. The generic version of the medication is not good. I am now paying out of pocket after 2 med trials because it made me feel hopeless, and the Adderall brand XR is the only thing thus far that’s worked for me for my ADHD."

10 / 10
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  • EJa...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • January 19, 2021

"I’ve been on this medication for almost a year. And it changed my life in a good way. It made me focus on my goals that I want to achieve and increased my motivation to become a better person, also balanced my mood and decreased my depression."

9 / 10
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  • Mis...
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • April 15, 2018

"25-year-old female with ADHD and MDD and am currently taking 30 mg of Adderall XR twice daily along with Celexa 20 mg. My new psychiatrist switched me to XR after my GP had me on IR, which caused raised BP and anxiety. Adderall XR has given me back control over my life. I am no longer struggling to complete tasks, have endless patience, have become more naturally social, and less avoidant of people. I no longer get overwhelmed at the thought of having to do something. I am much less impulsive, especially financially, as I got into $17k of debt and am finally organizing my life to pay it off. The only negative is that it is addictive. Before adding Celexa, I had a difficult time weaning off and taking tolerance breaks. I would go through severe withdrawals and depression. Celexa has helped me lower my dose and allows me to take breaks without feeling like I am going to die. Overall, a good medication when responsibly monitored and taken. Really changed my life."

9 / 10
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  • Jen...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • September 20, 2014

"My 8-year-old daughter has ADD. She is not really hyper, just has an attention deficit. We started her on Focalin, and that turned her into a clingy, bashful, quiet kid. I can't say if it really helped her in school; I never saw an improvement. Then we switched to Adderall 10 mg XR this past summer, and she is doing well. She even told me she liked this medicine because she can focus now. She still needs us to keep an eye on her, but she is much better than she was."

8 / 10
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  • CPD...
  • Taken for 5 to 10 years
  • June 28, 2015

"Wellbutrin did nothing for me, and Strattera caused erectile dysfunction and significant sleep disorders. My doctor slowly increased my Adderall XR dosage until I hit the 'sweet spot,' which was 30 mg for me. 40 mg made me a little jittery and anxious. In the correct dosage, Adderall has improved my quality of life with no side effects. I should note that if I miss a day, I am fine, but any longer without it and I become lethargic - so remember to refill your prescription as soon as you can, so you don't run out. I take the generic of this drug, and it works great."

10 / 10
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  • Jos...
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • June 17, 2022

"Been diagnosed late in life, but at least I can appreciate what this Adderall XR has done for me. No more procrastination, the fog is gone, I get things done. It is a whole new wonderful life, which I appreciate so much. Keep your medication in a safe place, lots of people (friends I thought) will steal this medication. Yup, I am much happier, able to focus and get things done. Also, I’ve started a gym routine, cardio classes, and eating foods that are in a natural state rather than processed foods. Life is great. Thank you."

10 / 10
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  • Mor...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • July 19, 2015

"This medication is to my brain like glasses are to a pair of eyes with poor, blurry vision. Personally, this medication is what works best for me. It isn't perfect, but it is better than nothing. I have ADHD inattentive type, and I also have social anxiety. I understand, this is a stimulant, so of course, it will make my anxiety worse. But I feel more motivated and more confident in myself and my abilities. I resent taking this every day, but I make sure to take this prior to school or work or any day I need to deal with responsibilities. Also, take it after you eat breakfast if you can. For me, the benefits outshine the negatives."

8 / 10
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  • Gil...
  • April 14, 2014

"I'm so much more focused at work and home. But I noticed, if I don't eat, I'm a space cadet. Eating is very important, otherwise, you're just wasting a good medicine. I also have a lot more energy, by far! I work the overnight shift at work, and it helps very much. Thanks, Adderall."

10 / 10
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  • Ruf...
  • August 12, 2015

"I started out taking the regular Adderall version, but it didn't last long and made me have horrible crash periods and steroid-like rages. So far, the Adderall XR seems to be working better, but it does reduce my appetite substantially. I've had to start taking weight gain supplements to ensure that I maintain my proper weight. If I miss a dose, I feel pretty lethargic and extremely sleepy. However, the medication has allowed me to read and focus better than I ever have, and I seem more motivated. I'm also able to talk better with others, and my social skills have definitely improved."

8 / 10
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  • Ple...
  • Taken for 5 to 10 years
  • June 5, 2015

"My son had been on Adderall XR (25 mg) for well over 6 years, and it has really worked well for him. I would say the only side effect that was difficult to deal with was the lack of appetite. However, after hitting the teenage years, it has fallen back into normal teenage young man trying to eat everything, lol. On a very good note: my son finished his 8th grade year with A's and B's, as well as a 3.4 GPA, and is now looking forward to attending high school in the fall."

10 / 10
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  • JT0...
  • May 25, 2013

"Started off with Concerta in May 2012, it was not effective at all. Switched over to Adderall XR 10 mg in July 2012 for seven days as a starter dose, then started Adderall XR 20 mg. I noticed a considerable difference between the two medicines instantly. I am able to focus for a very long period of time without being distracted. My grades improved exceptionally, I went from receiving grades below 55% to now my lowest grade being 83%. The benefits of this medicine do outweigh the side effects for me. I noticed 20 minutes after taking Adderall, I have increased bowel movements, lower libido, and decreased appetite. I stop taking Adderall during breaks and long weekends. The first day not on it, I am extremely tired. Exercising and eating healthy helps."

10 / 10
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  • bra...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • January 29, 2015

"Had the best results from Adderall XR. So smooth that I could concentrate and felt like the most normal person with absolutely no highs and lows. I could sit and concentrate for hours, go to sleep like normal people, and wake up like other adults. Insurance quit paying for it and had to switch to regular Adderall."

10 / 10
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  • Kno...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • January 15, 2021

"I have suffered with ADHD since I was a young kid. I got diagnosed at the youngest age possible, and I never got any help for it from my old doctor. With my new doctor, he gave me Adderall XR to start out with 10 and then upped it to 20 within a week if not effective. I am on 20 mg now, and it has changed my life. I failed school and life because I couldn't pay attention, and now not only can I pay attention, but this has also helped as my ADHD had caused depression, anxiety, and also OCD."

10 / 10
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Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or remove inappropriate content. Reviews appearing to come from parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any medication and should not replace the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals.