Safety, efficacy and extended duration of action of mixed amphetamine salts extended-release capsules for the treatment of ADHD.

Stimulant medications have proven to be effective in reducing the core symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention and are considered the first line of therapy for patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Mixed amphetamine salts extended-release capsules (MAS XR; Adderall XR, Shire Pharmaceuticals Group) include immediate-release pellets of mixed amphetamine salts that release the first half of the dose upon ingestion and delayed-release pellets that begin to release active drug approximately 4 h later. The MAS XR capsule contains the same 3:1 ratio of dextroamphetamine to levoamphetamine as do mixed amphetamine salts immediate-release tablets (MAS IR; Adderall), Shire Pharmaceuticals Group), and the bioavailability and pharmacokinetic profiles of MAS XR 20 mg are comparable to those with MAS IR 10 mg b.i.d. MAS XR has a rapid onset of action--within 1.5 h--and provides 12 h coverage. The efficacy, safety and extended duration of action of MAS XR have been established through clinical studies in school-age children, adolescents and adults.