Christine R. Perrin
Florida Institute of Technology
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to discuss Adderall and Adderall XR for the treatment of ADHD in adolescents. It will discuss the history of Adderall as well as present several case studies and findings including side effects both positive and negative on adolescents. Specifically this paper will focus on the history, case studies, and side effects adolescents have been known to exhibit with both short term and long term use.
Adderall and its Effects on Adolescents
Adderall and Adderall XR is currently used to treat ADHD in adolescents. Adderall consists of a mixture of d-amphetamine and l-amphetamine with the XR version containing two types of …show more content…
Of the trails conducted most were usually on adolescents ages six to twelve who had previously been diagnosed with ADHD (Sallee & Smirnoff 2004). One such study was a double blind study conducted on adolescents’ ages six to seventeen. The test subjects consisted of 2013 males and 93 females. Some subjects were given a placebo while others were given Adderall. The study concluded that Adderall was safe and effective with some side effects (Spencer, Abikoff, Connor, Biederman, Pliszka, Boellner & Pratt 2006). There have also been at least five studies conducted in which dosages were adjusted in an effort to control the severity of the side …show more content…
Physicians need to be sure that they are discussing family history with the patient before recommending this medication. It is always important to discuss family history as well as patient history with a physician before deciding if Adderall or Adderall XR is the right course of treatment. I feel it is very important to consider all side effects as well as benefits when considering a medication especially if it involved giving it to a child. It is important to consider whether the benefits outweigh the risk or whether it is best to consider another course of