If you constantly struggle to do what truly needs to be done, leaving you behind at work and chaotic at home, you might know the frustrations of ADHD. Maybe it’s the norm for you to open your laptop to work, but somehow, always end up on your phone or cleaning the kitchen.

With therapy, and potentially, a stimulant ADHD medication like Adderall XR (or its generic, mixed amphetamine salts extended-release or MAS ER), you might start to feel a little more clearer-headed. Sitting down to work or running an errand you normally hate (like booking a dentist appointment) might feel like less of a burden. 

Mixed Amphetamine Salts ER works like Adderall XR, but often at a lower price. Learn how it works, what it feels like, and what you should know if you’re considering this generic ADHD treatment. You can even get tested for ADHD online with ADHD Advisor and find out if a prescription makes sense for you. 

What are Mixed Amphetamine Salts ER?

Mixed Amphetamine Salts (MAS) Extended Release (ER) is the generic drug version of Adderall XR. It has the same active ingredients, but some manufacturing differences (like which dyes, binders, and fillers are used). It’s meant to be taken in the morning and lasts around 10-12 hours to get you through the day. 

Its active ingredients include a blend of four amphetamine salts:

• Amphetamine sulfate
• Dextroamphetamine sulfate
• Dextroamphetamine saccharate
• Amphetamine aspartate monohydrate

They’ve been FDA-approved for children 6 and up, but they can come with more serious consequences for children. This includes developmental issues since it can cause weight loss. 

They’re also a Schedule II controlled substance with a boxed warning of high risk of misuse, abuse, addiction, overdose, cardiovascular risks, and sudden death. 
At ADHD Advisor, we only work with adults 18+ online, offering online ADHD assessments, therapy, and potentially, prescriptions. 

How Mixed Amphetamine Salts ER Work

If you’ve ever wondered why boring tasks feel impossible with ADHD, there’s a reason. It might be because your brain isn’t sending enough dopamine and norepinephrine to the areas in charge of focus and self-control.

Stimulants like MAS ER work to boost those signals by impacting dopamine and norepinephrine levels (the neurochemicals majorly responsible for motivation, reward, and focus).

• Dopamine makes your brain think, “This is important, keep at it.” — making it easier to work on your project instead of procrastinating by doomscrolling or reorganizing your closet.‍
• Norepinephrine is more for sharpening alertness and mellowing impulses. Meaning, you might be less likely to blurt things out or wander away mid-task.

MAS ER capsules are time-released, hitting you in waves. The first boosts your focus for the morning, and the second wave is designed to hit during the typical afternoon crash.

Who Can Take Mixed Amphetamine Salts ER

MAS ER is FDA-approved for ages 6 and up, but that doesn’t mean they’re for everyone. Some people can react strongly to amphetamines and shouldn’t take them because of their risk of abuse, while certain health conditions make them unsafe. It’s important to tell your clinician as much as possible about your and your family’s health and history. 

For example, if you experience any of the following, stimulants likely won’t be prescribed to you: 

• Glaucoma
• Hypertension
• Hyperthyroidism
• Cardiovascular issues
• Personal or family history of substance abuse

It’s also important to note that it can interact with other drugs, including tricyclic and MAOI antidepressants, adrenergic blockers, antihistamines, alkalinizing agents, and more. 

Dosages and Administration

If you forget pills often, MAS ER might work for you since you only need to take them once a day. They’re available in 5-30 mg ER capsules (increasing in 5 mg increments). Follow your clinician’s recommendations, and keep them up to date on side effects.

Take it whole in the morning to avoid insomnia. If you have a hard time swallowing, you can sprinkle the beads on applesauce — but don’t crush or chew the capsule. 

If you forget a dose, skip it and take it at your next regular time. Don’t double up or take it later in the day if you forgot. 

Side Effects and Risks

Stimulants come with a long list of potential side effects that you’ll want to carefully consider beforehand. MAS ER’s most common ones include:

• Anxiety
• Dry mouth
• Headaches
• Appetite loss
• Sleep difficulties
• Painful menstrual cramps
• Sex drive or ability changes
• Digestive issues (diarrhea, constipation, nausea, abdominal pain)

If you notice any of the above getting more severe or not going away, let your clinician know. 

Call your doctor immediately if you notice any serious side effects listed on the label, such as:

• Seizures
• Dizziness
• Teeth grinding
• Vision changes
• Motor or verbal tics
• Slow or difficult speech
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Weakness or numbness in an arm or leg
• Cardiovascular issues (including fast or irregular heartbeats) 
• Psychiatric issues (hallucinations, mania, agitation, depression)
• Skin issues (rash, hives, itching, swelling, pain, numbness, burning, or tingling)

On top of these side effects, there is the high risk of abuse, misuse, addiction, overdose, and even sudden death. Speak to your clinician about any signs of addictive behaviors in yourself or family members before starting stimulants. 

Always report serious side effects on the FDA MedWatch page. 

Mixed Amphetamine Salts ER vs. Other ADHD Medications

There are plenty of ADHD medication options on the market. Here’s what to know about how some of them differ:

• MAS ER vs Adderall XR: They have the same active ingredients but different manufacturing processes (like dyes, binders, and fillers). Their absorption and effectiveness can vary, as well as side effects. Some people say they get more side effects from one or the other, but it’s individual — there’s no way to tell until you try. ‍
• MAS ER vs Mydayis: MAS ER lasts about 12 hrs, while Mydayis is meant to last the whole day, up to about 16 hrs. With Mydayis’ long-lasting formula, some people find sleep issues and late-day appetite loss more common. ‍
• MAS ER vs Methylphenidates (Concerta, Ritalin): These aren’t the same stimulant families, and their effects impact people differently. Amphetamines like MAS ER might be more energizing for some, with methylphenidate smoother or calmer for others. Meanwhile, MAS ER might cause more anxiety and appetite loss, with methylphenidates leading to more stomach issues and headaches. ‍
• MAS vs Non-Stimulants: Stimulants kick in within an hour or so (and quite strongly). They give a huge dopamine hit, which is a powerful motivator to keep taking them (i.e, get addicted). Plus, your brain can adapt to the higher levels, making natural rewards feel less exciting. Meanwhile, non-stimulants build slowly (over a few weeks), making them a safer choice if you have a family or personal history of addiction. They might also be less likely to cause sleep and appetite issues, and instead come with fatigue or mood changes. 

ADHD Care with ADHD Advisor: Stimulant Prescriptions in Select States

If you’re an adult 18+ looking to get an ADHD diagnosis or potential prescription online, ADHD Advisor can help. We offer therapy and non-stimulants across the nation. Stimulants, however, we only offer by prescription online in select states (like Texas or Florida). To see if you might qualify, check your state-specific page on ADHD Advisor. 

Step-by-Step Process

Once you’re ready to move forward, you can usually get your diagnosis and potential medication prescription within a few days (same-day appointments may also be available). Here’s how to get the process started:

1. Fill out your online intake questionnaire with the “Get Started” button. 
2. Schedule your telehealth evaluation and discuss things fully with your clinician. 
3. Get your clinical treatment plan, which would likely include therapy and potentially, non-stimulant or stimulant medication. 
   
   • Prescriptions are only available at the discretion of your licensed clinician. 
   • Stimulants like MAS ER can only be prescribed in select states for adults. 
4. Meet with your clinician for follow-ups. 

Access, Cost, and Insurance

MAS ER is generic, making it more available than its brand counterpart, Adderall XR. It’s usually stocked at the pharmacy, but you can always call your local ones to be sure. 

The cost will change depending on where you live and what your insurance covers, but it’s likely to be the budget-friendly option. 

At ADHD Advisor, we create a superbill that you can send to your insurance company for potential reimbursement (we don’t bill insurance companies directly). 

FAQs

Is mixed amphetamine salts ER the same as Adderall XR?
Yes, it’s the generic version of the brand-name drug Adderall XR. 

‍How long does it last? 
It comes in Extended Release (ER) form, lasting around 10-12 hours. 

‍Is MAS ER addictive?
Yes, all Schedule II stimulants have a high risk of dependence and abuse. 

‍Can ADHD Advisor prescribe MAS ER?
Yes, in select states for adults. Check your state-specific page on ADHD Advisor. 

What are the main risks?
Addiction, overdose, insomnia, psychiatric issues (anxiety, depression, mania, hallucinations, etc.), weight loss, cardiovascular effects, and sudden death.