Adderall XR is a central nervous system stimulant used to treat narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is widely prescribed in the United States. In fact, of the 11 million prescriptions written in 2004 for amphetamine products, Adderall accounted for 7 million. Its more common side effects include:
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Nervousness
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
More serious side effects can include:
- Severe allergic reaction
- Chest pain
- Seizures
- Hallucination
- Blurred vision or other vision problems
- Change in sexual ability or desire
- Confusion
- Fainting
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fever
- Numbness or tingling in one’s arm or leg
- Painful or frequent urination
- Red, swollen or blistered skin
- Severe headache, stomach pain or weight loss
- Shortness of breath
- Slurred speech
- Cardiovascular distress or sudden death
If you or a loved one has been harmed by Adderall XR, a drug lawyer can evaluate your case to determine if it is actionable.
Because the potential for abuse and addiction runs high with Adderall, it is classified as a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substance Act. Misuse of this dangerous drug has made headlines in recent years, as many college students around the country have come to rely on Adderall as part of their study arsenal, taking the drug without a prescription so that they can purportedly study longer and enhance their academic performance. The Office of Applied Studies found in one study that among persons aged 18-22, full-time college students were twice as likely to use Adderall non-medically as those who were not in college or who were part-time students. Taking this dangerous drug in higher doses than recommended or for extended periods of time can lead to dependence on it. And an Adderall overdose can be deadly.
The potential for abuse is not the only danger associated with Adderall. Long-term use of this dangerous drug can slow a child’s growth. And taking Adderall with certain medications, including over-the-counter decongestants and some types of antidepressants, can cause severe complications or even death.
In February 2005, Health Canada issued a drug recall for Adderall, after learning about 20 sudden deaths and 12 cases of stroke associated with the drug in the United States. Though Health Canada allowed the drug to return to market in August 2005, the agency required that the drug’s maker, Shire Pharmaceuticals, both revise its prescribing information to address safety concerns by warning about the risk of sudden cardiac death and distribute a letter to healthcare providers about the risks of Adderall XR.
Although Adderall is not a recalled drug in the United States, the Food and Drug Administration does require a black box warning about its potential for abuse, which advises that misuse may cause sudden death or serious cardiovascular problems. If you or a loved one has been injured by this widely prescribed drug, contact an experienced drug attorney to learn about your legal rights.