Adzenys: Uses, Side Effects, Warnings, & More

What Is Adzenys Used to Treat?

Adzenys is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in children and adults. It has undergone rigorous testing and met the FDA’s safety and efficacy standards. Adzenys helps manage ADHD symptoms like attention difficulties, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.²

It’s essential to note that in some cases, healthcare providers may choose to use Adzenys for conditions or uses other than those explicitly approved by the FDA. This practice is known as “off-label” use, and it is done based on the professional judgment of the prescriber.

Adzenys Dosages for FDA-Approved Treatment

Adzenys dosages for FDA-approved treatment of ADHD can vary based on age and individual factors. Pediatric patients aged 6 to 12 years usually start with 6.3 mg once daily, with a maximum dose of 18.8 mg.

For patients aged 13 to 17 years, the maximum dose is 12.5 mg once daily. Adults typically take 12.5 mg once daily in the morning.¹

Adzenys Forms & Strengths

Adzenys XR-ODT comes in a variety of strengths as extended-release orally disintegrating tablets. The available strengths include 3.1 mg, 6.3 mg, 9.4 mg, 12.5 mg, 15.7 mg, and 18.8 mg.¹ Prescribers consider factors like the patient’s age, weight, and severity of ADHD when choosing the right form and dosage.

Take note: Adzenys XR-ODT and Adzenys ER work just as well as other medications with the same active ingredient when taken at the same dose. They have similar effects and are safe and well-tolerated.²

Adzenys is available in the following forms and strengths:¹

• 3.1 mg Amphetamine Extended-Release Orally Disintegrating Tablet
• 6.3 mg Amphetamine Extended-Release Orally Disintegrating Tablet
• 9.4 mg Amphetamine Extended-Release Orally Disintegrating Tablet
• 12.5 mg Amphetamine Extended-Release Orally Disintegrating Tablet
• 15.7 mg Amphetamine Extended-Release Orally Disintegrating Tablet
• 18.8 mg Amphetamine Extended-Release Orally Disintegrating Tablet

How Should I Take Adzenys?

To take Adzenys, simply allow the tablet to dissolve in your saliva, then swallow it. You can take it with or without food. Adults usually take 12.5 mg once daily in the morning.¹

Remember, it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. Don’t substitute Adzenys with other amphetamine products on your own, as they might have different compositions. Taking the right dosage as prescribed will ensure safe and effective treatment.

What Happens If I Miss a Dose of Adzenys?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next dose, skip it and continue as scheduled. Avoid doubling doses. Do not stop Adzenys XR-ODT abruptly or try to catch up on missed doses, as sudden changes can affect the effectiveness and cause side effects. Consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about missed doses.

Can You Become Addicted to Adzenys?

Adzenys XR-ODT can cause physical dependence if used long-term at high doses¹ Stopping the medication suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms like mood changes, fatigue, vivid dreams, sleep issues, increased appetite, and activity changes.

To avoid misuse, healthcare providers may set limits on prescriptions and schedule follow-up visits. In some cases, supervised medication discontinuation or medical detox might be necessary for a safe transition off Adzenys XR-ODT. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and never adjust the dosage on your own.

Can You Overdose on Adzenys?

Yes, overdosing on Adzenys XR-ODT is possible and can cause various symptoms like restlessness, tremors, confusion, hallucinations, high fever, and muscle breakdown.

Other reactions include irregular heartbeats, high or low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. In severe cases, an overdose may lead to convulsions, coma, or even fatal poisoning.³

What Should You Do If You Take Too Much Adzenys?

If you take too much Adzenys, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. Call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency room. Do not wait or hesitate to seek help, as prompt medical intervention is crucial to manage the effects of an overdose and prevent any potential complications.

Side Effects of Adzenys

Adzenys XR-ODT can cause side effects due to its direct effects on the body. Common side effects include increased heart rate, mood changes, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, stomach issues, weight loss, headache, and itching.

As your body adapts to the medication, you may experience temporary effects like mood changes and trouble sleeping. These usually improve with time. Discuss any side effects or concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Common Side Effects of Adzenys

Adzenys may cause common side effects such as decreased appetite, weight loss, dry mouth, stomach discomfort, and more. Most of these effects usually improve with continued use and may not need medical attention. However, if they persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly.

Common side effects of Adzenys include:¹

• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Dry mouth
• Stomach upset/pain
• Nausea/vomiting
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Nervousness
• Trouble sleeping

All medications, including Adzenys, can cause side effects that can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Serious Side Effects of Adzenys

Adzenys XR-ODT, a stimulant medicine, may cause serious side effects, including heart-related issues, mental problems, and circulation problems in fingers and toes (peripheral vasculopathy) Seek immediate medical care if any of these side effects occur.

Serious side effects of Adzenys may include:³

• Heart-related problems: sudden death, stroke, heart attack, increased blood pressure, and heart rate.
• Mental (psychiatric) problems: new or worse behavior and thought problems, new or worse bipolar illness, and new psychotic symptoms.
• Circulation problems in fingers and toes (Peripheral vasculopathy): fingers or toes feeling numb, cool, or painful, and changing color from pale to blue to red.

All medications, including Adzenys, can cause side effects that can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Allergic Reactions to Adzenys

Adzenys can trigger allergic reactions, particularly in those with allergies to medications or ingredients. Common reactions include hives, rash, swelling (angioedema), and severe reactions like anaphylaxis.

Rare cases have reported serious skin rashes like toxic epidermal necrolysis. If you experience any of these, seek immediate medical attention.

Allergic reactions to Adzenys may include:¹

• Hives (urticaria)
• Rash
• Hypersensitivity reactions
• Swelling (angioedema)
• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Serious skin rashes (Stevens-Johnson Syndrome)
• Toxic epidermal necrolysis (blistering and or peeling of the skin)

If you experience allergic reactions, seek immediate medical attention; your healthcare provider may discontinue Adzenys and explore alternative medications for safety and effectiveness, so consult them for personalized guidance and adjustments.

Adzenys Warnings & Precautions

Taking Adzenys XR-ODT requires considering safety precautions, including the risk of abuse, serious cardiovascular reactions, increased blood pressure and heart rate, psychiatric adverse reactions, and more. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Precautions for taking Adzenys include:¹

• Potential for abuse and dependence: Adzenys, like other CNS stimulants, can be abused and lead to dependence. Assess the risk before prescribing and monitor for signs of abuse and dependence during therapy.
• Serious cardiovascular reactions: In adults, sudden death, stroke, and heart attack have been reported with CNS stimulant treatment. Avoid use in patients with known serious heart problems.
• Blood pressure and heart rate increases: CNS stimulants can raise blood pressure and heart rate. Monitor patients for potential tachycardia and hypertension.
• Psychiatric adverse reactions: In patients with pre-existing mental health disorders, behavior may worsen. CNS stimulants can also trigger manic episodes in those with bipolar illness and cause new psychotic or manic symptoms.
• Long-term suppression of growth: Pediatric patients treated with CNS stimulants may experience weight loss and slowed growth rate. Monitor growth closely in these patients.
• Peripheral vasculopathy: Adzenys and other ADHD stimulants can cause changes in blood flow to fingers and toes, known as peripheral vasculopathy. This may lead to symptoms like numbness, coolness, and pain. Careful observation of any digital changes is necessary during treatment.
• Serotonin syndrome: Combining amphetamines with certain drugs that affect serotonin levels can cause serotonin syndrome, a dangerous reaction. Avoid using amphetamines with other medications.
• Potential for overdose due to medication errors: Mistakes in medication, like confusing Adzenys with other amphetamine products, can result in overdose. Avoid replacing one amphetamine product with another in equal doses. Be cautious to prevent such mistakes.

Interactions With Adzenys

Being aware of substances that may interact with Adzenys XR-ODT is crucial to avoid harmful effects and ensure the medication’s efficacy. Understanding these interactions can empower individuals to make informed decisions and discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers to optimize their treatment plans.

5 substances you should avoid while taking Adzenys:¹

• MAO Inhibitors (MAOI): Combining Adzenys with MAOI antidepressants can lead to a dangerous condition called hypertensive crisis. This can cause severe headaches, toxic effects on the nervous system, and even a life-threatening condition called malignant hyperpyrexia.
• Serotonergic Drugs: Taking Adzenys with serotonergic drugs can increase the chance of developing serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening reaction.
• Alkalinizing Agents: Some medications that increase the pH level in the body can raise the blood levels of amphetamine in Adzenys, making its effects stronger.
• Acidifying Agents: Certain drugs that lower the pH level in the body can reduce the blood levels and effectiveness of amphetamines.
• Tricyclic Antidepressants: When tricyclic antidepressants are used with Adzenys, they can enhance its effects, causing significant increases in amphetamine levels in the brain and affecting the heart. Regular monitoring of patients is important, and alternative therapies may be considered if needed based on their responses.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Adzenys

Remember, open communication with your healthcare provider, psychiatrist, and therapist is essential to ensure Adzenys XR-ODT is right for you and to address any concerns or questions you may have during your treatment journey. Online psychiatry services can be a valuable option if you need to change prescribers or seek mental health support from the comfort of your home.

Questions to ask your care team about Adzenys include:

• How long will it take for me to adjust to taking Adzenys XR-ODT?
• Am I at risk for more serious symptoms if I am already taking other anxiety/depression medications?
• What is the best dosage to ensure fewer side effects?
• When should I reach out to you if I am experiencing sexual side effects?
• Is there anything I should tell my therapist about this new medication?
• Can I take Adzenys with other medications or supplements I am currently using?
• Are there any specific foods or drinks I should avoid while on Adzenys?
• How often should I have follow-up visits to monitor the medication’s effectiveness?
• What are the signs that Adzenys might not be the right medication for me?
• Are there any lifestyle changes I should consider to support the medication’s benefits?
• Can you provide me with a comprehensive list of potential side effects and what to do if I experience them?
• Is online psychiatry an option for me if I need to change prescribers or seek a second opinion?