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How Long After Adderall-ER Dosage Does It Take Effect?

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Posted on Sat, 7 Nov 2015
Question: Hi I currently started taking Adderall XR 20mg on October 13th, and is helping with concentration it is has decreased my energy level. I work in a Emergency Dept and is affecting my overall turn around with pt. I thought that this medication kicked in right away but it is an Extended Release med. Will it take longer for the medication to start working?
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Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (34 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
It has started working

Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.

In terms of Adderall effect coming into place I think that you should already be feeling its effect. The fact it is extended release does not mean its effect starts in days/weeks. It means simply that its concentration in the blood is more stable over the day, meaning it doesn’t have to be taken in 2-3 separate doses but only once a day. Its peak level in the plasma is reached later than the non ER form, but that is only of some hours not days (3 hours for Adderall and 7 hours for Adderall ER).

So you while the maximum effect at times may be achieved in 3-4 weeks in some patients, you should already be experiencing most of it. I find it a little strange that you feel low energy level, that is not a usual direct side effect of Adderall, should consider it also being due to improper nutrition or lack of sleep (insomnia and lack of appetite being common side effects).

I remain at your disposal for other questions.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Olsi Taka

Neurologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 3673 Questions

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How Long After Adderall-ER Dosage Does It Take Effect?

Brief Answer: It has started working Detailed Answer: I read your question carefully and I understand your concern. In terms of Adderall effect coming into place I think that you should already be feeling its effect. The fact it is extended release does not mean its effect starts in days/weeks. It means simply that its concentration in the blood is more stable over the day, meaning it doesn’t have to be taken in 2-3 separate doses but only once a day. Its peak level in the plasma is reached later than the non ER form, but that is only of some hours not days (3 hours for Adderall and 7 hours for Adderall ER). So you while the maximum effect at times may be achieved in 3-4 weeks in some patients, you should already be experiencing most of it. I find it a little strange that you feel low energy level, that is not a usual direct side effect of Adderall, should consider it also being due to improper nutrition or lack of sleep (insomnia and lack of appetite being common side effects). I remain at your disposal for other questions.