Does Adderall Expire?

Most medications come with an expiration date, but these items don't spoil the same way many foods do. According to Insider, this date refers to the point that full potency can no longer be guaranteed, although the medication itself probably continues to work well for years after the expiration date. However, some medications lose their potency more quickly than others. Adderall, for example, should be used within one year of opening the bottle. Because it is a prescription drug, it is important that Adderall stays at its full potency in order to correctly treat the patient.

Other drugs, like ibuprofen and acetaminophen, are effective for about four to five years after opening. One medication that is an example of where you should follow the listed expiration date is cough syrup. Because it is a liquid, it deteriorates more quickly than pill or capsule forms. An entire bottle of cough syrup is also typically not consumed at once, so it has a higher risk of being contaminated from frequent use. If you are unsure about using medication after its expiration date, speak with your healthcare provider about it.

Adderall is a medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that works by increasing the activity of certain chemicals in the brain (via WebMD). It is also used to treat narcolepsy. Adderall must be prescribed by a medical professional and cannot be purchased over the counter.

Adderall is a powerful medication that should be taken only as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. It can cause side effects, particularly when taken in large doses or over prolonged periods of time. In most cases, the side effects associated with Adderall are minor and manageable; however, some can be severe and require immediate medical attention. Some common side effects of Adderall include headaches, dry mouth, dizziness, stomach upset, difficulty sleeping or staying asleep, weight loss, and problems with vision. It is also possible to develop an addiction to Adderall. To avoid this, you should only take the prescribed dosage of this medication.