Amphetamine
Amphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant used primarily to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It works by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, helping to improve focus, attention, and impulse control in patients with these conditions.
Amphetamine is a stimulant medication used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy by increasing certain brain chemicals that affect attention and impulse control.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N06BA01
- RxNorm
- 725
- Generic
- Amphetamine
- Class
- atc-n06
- Brands
- Evekeo, Dyanavel, Adzenys, Mydayis, Adderall
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, suspension, capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 5mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 5mg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 5mg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits significantly outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring and growth assessments
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid
discontinue use before third trimester when possible
fetal monitoring for growth and development
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingcontraindicated
do not breastfeed during amphetamine treatment
monitor infant for irritability, poor weight gain, and sleep disturbances
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
under 6 yearsnot recommended
amphetamines are not approved for children under 6 years of age
regular developmental assessments if accidentally exposed
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
6 to 12 yearsstart with lowest dose
use with caution, close monitoring required; not for ADHD in children under 6
regular monitoring of growth, weight, blood pressure, and heart rate
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlyreduce starting dose
use with extreme caution; increased sensitivity to cardiovascular effects
monitor blood pressure, heart rate, and cognitive function closely
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severe renal impairmentreduce dose by 50%
use with caution; extended interval may be needed
monitor renal function and drug accumulation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
moderate hepatic impairmentreduce dose by 25-50%
use with caution; metabolism may be impaired
monitor for increased adverse effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information for amphetamine stimulants
Drug class
Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classification
Common uses
Primary therapeutic applications
Available formulations
Dosage form variations
Amphetamine is primarily prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to improve focus and reduce impulsive behavior, and for narcolepsy to help manage excessive daytime sleepiness. It may also occasionally be used short-term for weight management when other treatments have not been effective.
Amphetamine increases the release and blocks the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, enhancing communication between nerve cells. This results in improved attention, alertness, and behavioral control.
Amphetamine is a controlled substance with a high potential for abuse and dependence. Common side effects include decreased appetite, insomnia, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. It should only be used as prescribed and under close medical supervision, with regular monitoring of cardiovascular health and growth in pediatric patients.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy