Track Your Adderall XR & IR Curve
Understand the 50:50 dual-pulse bead timeline and estimate likely timing with an evidence-based population model.
Dual-Pulse Micro-Bead Pharmacokinetics
Comparative level profiles of single-pulse Adderall IR versus dual-pulse Adderall XR.
Adderall IR vs XR: dual-pulse XR profile after a 7 AM dose
Immediate-release beads dissolve rapidly in the stomach, providing initial peak focus between 2.5 and 3 hours post-ingestion.
Enteric polymer dissolves in the alkaline pH (>5.5) of the small intestine at ~4h, delivering the second wave to sustain therapeutic levels.
Hepatic metabolism and renal clearance taper plasma levels toward the bedtime clearance zone (<15 ng/mL total amphetamine).
Amphetamine Formulations & Equivalencies
Compare the release kinetics and enantiomer ratios of standard amphetamine medications.
| Brand / Generic | Manufacturer | Delivery System | Standard Strengths | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adderall XR | Takeda / Teva / Generics | 50:50 Dual-Pulse Micro-Beads (3:1 d/l) | 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 mg | 10–12 Hours |
| Adderall IR | Teva / Generics | Immediate Release Tablet (3:1 d/l) | 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 30 mg | 4–6 Hours |
| Mydayis | Takeda | Triple-Pulse Micro-Beads (3:1 d/l) | 12.5, 25, 37.5, 50 mg | Up to 16 Hours |
| Dexedrine / Zenzedi / Amfexa | Various | Pure Dextroamphetamine (100% d-amph) | 5, 10, 15, 20, 30 mg | 4–6h (IR) / 8–10h (Spansule) |
| Evekeo | Arbor Pharmaceuticals | Racemic Amphetamine Sulfate (1:1 d/l) | 5, 10 mg | 4–6 Hours |
| Adzenys XR-ODT | Neos Therapeutics | Orally Disintegrating XR Tablet (3:1 d/l) | 3.1, 6.3, 9.4, 12.5, 15.7, 18.8 mg | 10–12 Hours |
Fast 30–45m Action
The immediate-release micro-bead fraction dissolves rapidly in gastric fluid to provide prompt morning symptom relief.
pH & Renal Kinetics
Amphetamine is an organic base. Urinary pH strongly regulates whether the drug is reabsorbed into blood or rapidly excreted in urine.
Rebound Prevention
Tracking the drop-off after the second pulse helps you anticipate the midday trough and prepare a smooth evening routine.
Caffeine Stacking with Adderall
Adderall contains 25% levoamphetamine, which inherently produces more peripheral sympathetic activation (elevated heart rate, vasoconstriction) than pure d-amphetamine. Combining caffeine with Adderall during its dual peaks substantially increases cardiovascular load, jitteriness, and restlessness.
Simulate Your Adderall XR / IR Curve Live
Enter your dose (5mg–30mg), dose timing, and caffeine intake to calculate your exact dual-pulse plateau and bedtime clearance window.
How FocusCurve Masters Your Adderall Day
Engineered for the dual-pulse kinetics of mixed amphetamine salts.
2-Tap Dose Logging
Log morning XR doses and afternoon IR boosters in two quick taps.
Home Screen Widget
See your dual-pulse curve progress and current therapeutic level right from your Home Screen.
Pill Inventory Countdown
Never get caught without controlled medication with smart refill reminders.
100% On-Device Privacy
Zero cloud sync, zero health accounts. All sensitive dose logs stay on your iPhone.
Evidence-backed guide
Read the cited guide to Adderall IR/XR release patterns, duration, and individual variability.
How long does Adderall last? →Methodology & Citations
Last reviewed: August 30, 2026
Curves use published pharmacokinetic parameters and normalized population averages. They estimate likely timing; they cannot predict an individual response or replace prescriber guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Adderall XR last vs IR?
Adderall XR is designed to last 10 to 12 hours via its dual-pulse micro-bead system. Immediate-release Adderall IR typically lasts 4 to 6 hours. Individual metabolic factors and urinary pH heavily influence your actual duration.
How does the 50:50 dual-pulse micro-bead mechanism work?
Each capsule contains two types of beads in equal proportion. Immediate-release beads dissolve quickly in the stomach for rapid onset. Delayed-release beads have an enteric coating that dissolves only upon reaching the alkaline pH (>5.5) of the small intestine about 4 hours later.
How do Vitamin C and acidic juices affect Adderall?
Stomach acidity reduces absorption through ion trapping. Furthermore, ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) acidifies urine, causing amphetamine molecules to become ionized in renal tubules, preventing reabsorption and rapidly accelerating urinary excretion.
What is the 3:1 enantiomer ratio?
Adderall contains a 3:1 ratio of dextroamphetamine (d-amph) to levoamphetamine (l-amph). D-amphetamine provides potent central dopamine/norepinephrine reuptake inhibition for focus, while l-amphetamine adds peripheral adrenergic activation.
How can I plan for possible afternoon rebound on Adderall XR?
FocusCurve tracks your estimated plasma curve in real time, helping you pinpoint the transition when the second bead pulse begins fading. This lets you schedule low-cognitive tasks or discuss booster timing with your doctor before symptoms rebound.
Understand Your Adderall Timeline in Total Privacy
Log doses in 2 taps, see an estimated dual-pulse curve on your Home Screen widget, and support your sleep planning.
Medical Disclaimer: FocusCurve is an educational medication-timeline and dose-logging tool, not a medical device or diagnostic instrument. Estimated pharmacokinetic profiles are based on published population-average clinical data. Individual metabolism varies. Always consult your prescribing physician before altering your medication regimen.