Adderall Dosage Calculator

Age:

Indication:

Form Type:

Tablet/Capsule Strength (mg):

How to Calculate Adderall Dosage

This calculator determines a safe starting dose of Adderall for children and adults with ADHD or narcolepsy, based on age and indication, using these guidelines:

Starting Dose per Day (mg):

Starting Dose (mg/day) = Initial Dose by Age/Indication

Dose per Administration (mg):

Dose per Dose (mg) = Starting Dose (mg/day) / Daily Doses

Tablets/Capsules per Dose:

Tablets/Capsules = Dose per Dose (mg) / Tablet/Capsule Strength (mg)

Where:

Age: Patient’s age in years.
Indication: ADHD (5 mg for 6–12 years, 10 mg for ≥13 years) or Narcolepsy (5 mg for 6–11 years, 10 mg for ≥12 years).
Daily Doses: 2 for Immediate-Release (IR), 1 for Extended-Release (XR).
Tablet/Capsule Strength: 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, or 30 mg.

Dose is given every 4–6 hours for IR (up to 2 doses/day) or once daily in the morning for XR, starting with the lowest effective dose and increasing by 5–10 mg weekly if needed, up to 40 mg/day for ADHD or 60 mg/day for narcolepsy. ⚠️ This tool is for information purposes only and Adderall dosages should always be calculated separately as well as double-checked by a healthcare provider. Always check the dosing information and contraindications on the leaflet. Consult your healthcare provider before administering.

Using the Adderall Dosage Calculator

This tool estimates a starting Adderall dose for children and adults with ADHD or narcolepsy. Input the patient’s age, select the indication (ADHD or narcolepsy), choose the form type (Immediate-Release or Extended-Release), and select the tablet/capsule strength. Results show the dose per administration, daily total in mg, tablets/capsules, with dosing rules and a reminder to consult a healthcare provider.

Example: 10-year-old child, ADHD, Immediate-Release (IR) Tablets, 5 mg strength:

Every 4–6 hours (up to 2 doses/day):
Starting dose:
In milligrams per dose: 2.5 mg
In Immediate-Release Tablets (5 mg): 0.5 tablets/capsules
Daily dosage:
In milligrams: 5 mg (max 40 mg)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Adderall used for?

Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) is a stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, helping improve focus, reduce impulsivity, and manage excessive daytime sleepiness.

2. How often should Adderall be taken?

Immediate-Release (IR) Adderall is typically taken every 4–6 hours, up to 2 doses per day, while Extended-Release (XR) is taken once daily in the morning, but follow your healthcare provider’s guidance based on the patient’s condition and response.

3. Can I use adult Adderall for children?

No, adult Adderall formulations may have higher strengths (e.g., 20 mg, 30 mg) unsuitable for children. Use child-specific doses (starting at 2.5–10 mg/day) and consult a healthcare provider for appropriate dosing, as children’s needs differ.

4. What’s the difference between IR and XR Adderall?

Immediate-Release (IR) tablets work within 15–30 minutes and last 4–6 hours, taken multiple times daily, while Extended-Release (XR) capsules release gradually, starting in 30–60 minutes and lasting 10–12 hours, taken once daily.

5. How do I adjust the dose if side effects occur?

If side effects like insomnia or loss of appetite occur, reduce the dose or frequency as advised by your healthcare provider, starting with the lowest effective dose and increasing gradually by 5–10 mg weekly if needed.

6. How long can someone take Adderall?

Adderall can be used long-term for ADHD or narcolepsy under medical supervision, but regular monitoring is needed for effectiveness and side effects. Consult your healthcare provider for duration and adjustments based on the patient’s needs.

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