Dexedrine and Adderall are two of the most commonly prescribed medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Because they both contain forms of amphetamine, there are many similarities between the two medications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While Adderall is the most common ADHD medication and is often the first-choice treatment for the disorder, there are a few benefits to Dexedrine that might make it more suitable for certain patients. In this article, we will discuss the similarities and differences between these two stimulants to help you decide which medication is right for you. If ADHD is affecting your daily life, medications like Adderall or Dexedrine could help you improve your focus, attention span, time management skills, and more. Find a provider<\/a> today to receive a comprehensive and affordable online ADHD diagnosis and treatment plan<\/a>, which can include prescription medication, in as little as 48 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
| <\/th> | Dexedrine<\/th> | Adderall<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Drug Class<\/strong><\/td>| Schedule II stimulant<\/td> | Schedule II stimulant<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | Brand \/ Generic Status<\/strong><\/td> | Brand name for dextroamphetamine<\/td> | Brand name for amphetamine salts<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | Form(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td> | \u2022 Extended-release capsules | \n\u2022 Immediate-release tablets \n\u2022 Clear, bubblegum-flavored liquid suspension \n<\/td> Immediate release tablets, Extended-release capsules <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | Standard Dosage<\/strong><\/td> | Liquid suspension: | \n\u2022 5mg per teaspoon \n \nTablets: \n\u2022 2.5mg to 30mg \n \nCapsules: \n\u2022 5mg \n\u2022 10mg \n\u2022 15mg \n<\/td> 5mg to 30mg tablets<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | Typical Treatment Length<\/strong><\/td> | Short-term use only<\/td> | Long-term use | \n \n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/td> | FDA-approved uses: | \n\u2022 ADHD \n\u2022 Narcolepsy \n \nOff-label uses: \n\u2022 Obesity \n\u2022 Depression \n<\/td> FDA-approved uses: | \n\u2022 ADHD \n\u2022 Narcolepsy (sleep disorder) \n \nOff-label uses: \n\u2022 Depression \n\u2022 Anxiety \n\u2022 Bipolar disorder<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n Cost<\/strong><\/td> | Brand-name Dexedrine: | \n\u2022 $743 for a 30-day supply \n \nGeneric form (dextroamphetamine): \n\u2022 $17 for 30 days of 5mg capsules \n\u2022 $115 for 30 days of high-dose, extended release capsules \n<\/td> Brand-name Adderall: | \n\u2022 $8 per 5mg tablet \n\u2022 $237 for a 30-day supply \n \nGeneric form (amphetamine salts): \n\u2022 $13 for 30 days of 5mg tablets \n\u2022 $85 for 30 extended-release pills<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n Side-Effects<\/strong><\/td> | Common side effects: | \n\u2022 Dry mouth \n\u2022 Weight loss \n\u2022 Loss of appetite \n\u2022 Nausea \n\u2022 Diarrhea \n\u2022 Headache \n\u2022 Insomnia \n\u2022 Restlessness \n \nSerious side-effects: \n\u2022 Heart or circulation problems \n\u2022 Changes in behavior \n\u2022 Seizures \n\u2022 Muscle twitches \n\u2022 Changes in vision \n<\/td> Common side-effects: | \n\u2022 Decreased appetite \n\u2022 Weight loss \n\u2022 Dry mouth \n\u2022 Nausea \n\u2022 Headache \n\u2022 Fever \n\u2022 Trouble sleeping \n \nSerious side-effects: \n\u2022 Signs of blood flow problems \n\u2022 Behavior changes \n\u2022 Uncontrolled movements \n\u2022 Shortness of breath \n\u2022 Irregular heartbeat \n\u2022 Seizures \n\u2022 Trouble speaking<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n Warnings For Use<\/strong><\/td> | Contraindicated conditions: | \n\u2022 Heart problems \n\u2022 High blood pressure \n\u2022 Mental illness \n\u2022 Circulation problems \n \nDrug\/food interactions: \n\u2022 Acidic foods (fruits, juices) \n\u2022 Vitamin C supplements \n\u2022 Antacids \n\u2022 Antidepressants \n\u2022 Blood pressure medication \n\u2022 Seizure medicine \n<\/td> Drug interactions: | \n\u2022 SSRIs and SNRIs \n\u2022 Blood pressure medication \n\u2022 Acid reflux medication \n\u2022 Blood thinners \n\u2022 Cold or allergy medication \n\u2022 Opioid-based medications \n\u2022 Seizure medication<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\n Dexedrine vs. Adderall<\/h2>\n\n\n\nBoth Adderall and Dexedrine are central nervous system stimulant medications that affect neurotransmitters in the brain. This increase or improvement of effectiveness in norepinephrine and serotonin can lead to increased focus and overall alertness as well as a feeling of general well-being. Because ADHD, among many other symptoms, is typified by a lack of being able to focus, these medications can have a profound effect on those with the disorder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While Dexedrine and Adderall are both used to treat ADHD, their chemical compounds are different. Dexedrine contains only dextroamphetamine sulfate, while Adderall contains a 3:1 mixture of dextroamphetamine and l-amphetamine salts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Because of this difference, Dexedrine only affects the central nervous system, while Adderall targets both the CNS and peripheral nervous system. Adderall only focuses on dopamine reuptake, while Dexedrine can help increase the production of both dopamine and norepinephrine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Dexedrine is typically considered to be the stronger medication of the two, but the compounds in Adderall often make it more effective at targeting ADHD symptoms. However, those who are resistant to Adderall may benefit from Dexedrine, and vice versa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Dexedrine and Adderall come in similar dosages and both are available in extended-release formulas that allow for the release of amphetamine over time and as such don\u2019t have to be taken as often. Dexedrine is a bit less expensive than Adderall. Both drugs can have serious interactions with other medications and should be taken only under the supervision of a licensed clinician.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), both Dexedrine and Adderall are Schedule II narcotic drugs, which indicates an increased risk of addiction and substance abuse. You should avoid both medications if you have a history of substance abuse. These ADHD medications are restricted on a varying basis state by state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n People with high blood pressure need to be especially careful with any sort of stimulant medication, including Dexedrine and Adderall, as they can raise blood pressure. If you experience a severe headache, anxiety, chest pain, uneven heartbeat, or shortness of breath after taking these drugs, stop taking them and contact your doctor immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dexedrine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n |