Adderall Dosage Calculator
Review age-based Adderall IR and XR starting-dose guidelines and common daily maximums for an informed conversation with a prescriber.
About Adderall dosage guidance
Adderall dosage examples
Examples show common label-based starting guidance, not personal prescriptions.
| Profile | Guideline | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Age 4, 18 kg, IR | Start 2.5 mg; maximum 40 mg/day | Young children require particularly close specialist monitoring and slow titration. |
| Age 10, 30 kg, XR | Start 10 mg; maximum 30 mg/day | The child XR maximum shown is a guideline boundary, not a dose goal. |
| Age 30, 70 kg, IR | Start 5 mg; maximum 40 mg/day | The prescriber determines frequency and titration from response and tolerability. |
How to use the calculator
- Enter body weight in kilograms for clinical context.
- Enter age in completed years.
- Choose immediate release or extended release to match the prescribed product.
- Select Calculate dosage guideline and discuss the result with a licensed prescriber or pharmacist.
Adderall dosage FAQ
Is Adderall dosed by body weight?
Usually it is titrated by age, formulation, response, and tolerability rather than a fixed milligram-per-kilogram equation. Weight remains important for growth and safety monitoring.
Are IR and XR doses interchangeable?
No, they have different release patterns and schedules. A prescriber or pharmacist should direct any conversion between products.
Should the maximum dose be the treatment goal?
No, the best dose is generally the lowest dose that provides adequate benefit with acceptable effects. Many patients remain well below a published maximum.
Can I change a dose based on this result?
No, the result is educational and cannot account for your medical history or other medicines. Only the prescribing clinician should change a controlled stimulant regimen.
What side effects need prompt attention?
Chest pain, fainting, severe agitation, hallucinations, or marked cardiovascular symptoms need urgent assessment. Contact the prescriber for persistent appetite, sleep, mood, pulse, or blood-pressure concerns.