How does Adderall work? And is there a problem if heart rate is elevated 15-20 bpm??

Question

I started taking Adderall (with perscription) about 4 months ago for ADD. I am taking 25 mg Adderall XR for school and work days only, and I also have 10 mg of the immediate release. My doctor told me that the 25 mg XR is really just 12.5 grams released every 4 hours, while the 10 mg is released all at once. She also said to take two of the regulars if the 10 wasn't working enough for me.

My question is, shouldn't I be taking more if 20 mg helps me more than 25 mg XR? They told me I should not increase because I don't weigh enough, but it helps me more.

Also, I've noticed that my resting heart rate is now 100-115, when it is normally 80-90? Is this a problem?

Answer 1

Adderal is the trade name of an amphetamine.

It acts by affecting the chemicals in the brain that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control.

A side effect of Adderal is increase in the heart beat.

Your increase in the heart beat is due to the increased amount you are taking.

Maintaining a high resting heart rate of that much is not good. If it is a temporary phenomenon because you are sometimes increasing the dose to suit you then it is Ok.  

You can increase your heart rate upto 100 occassionaly when at rest.

The maximum allowed dose for an average sized person is 60 mg of regular per day. But your increase should be according to your weight.

Take your doctor's advice.

Iam not aware how you are taking it now. Do you get the palpitations when you take two of the regular (i.e. 20 mg.)