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Compare Dexedrine vs. Adderall

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) and Adderall (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts) are both stimulant medications used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. The main difference between the two is their composition. Dextroamphetamine is a single-ingredient medication, while Adderall contains a mixture of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts. Both medications can cause similar side effects, such as trouble sleeping and loss of appetite. Dextroamphetamine is available in immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules, and a liquid solution, whereas Adderall is available as an immediate-release tablet and an extended-release capsule. Both medications have a risk of misuse and dependence, so it's important to take them exactly as prescribed. If you have heart problems or a history of substance use disorder, talk to your healthcare provider before starting either medication.

  • Dextroamphetamine
    Adderall
  • Dextroamphetamine
    Adderall

  • Summary of Dexedrine vs. Adderall

    Summary for Stimulant
    Prescription only

    Dextroamphetamine is used for the treatment of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can also be used to treat uncontrollable daytime sleepiness (narcolepsy). Some side effects of the medication include difficulty sleeping, restlessness, and loss of appetite (that might lead to possible weight loss).

    Summary for Stimulant
    Prescription only

    Adderall is a stimulant medication that's used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy in adults and children. It contains the instant-release (IR) forms of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts. Adderall is available as a brand-name and lower-cost generic tablet that's taken by mouth. Your psychiatrist will adjust the dosage for you based on how well the medication works for you. Common side effects include trouble sleeping and loss of appetite.

  • Indications of Dexedrine vs. Adderall

    Indications for
    •Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
    •Narcolepsy (extreme daytime sleepiness)
    Indications for
    •Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
    •Narcolepsy (daytime sleepiness)

  • Pros and Cons of Dexedrine vs. Adderall

    Pros and Const for Stimulant
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    •Available in immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules
    •Available as a liquid solution if you have difficulty swallowing pills
    •Tablets and solution are okay to use in children as young as 3 years old
    Cons
    •Has a risk of misuse and dependency
    •A controlled medication, so there are special requirements for getting the prescription filled
    •Can cause trouble sleeping if taken late in the day
    •Not the best option if you have heart problems
    Pros and Const for Stimulant
    Pros
    •First-choice option for ADHD in children and adults
    •Starts working within an hour after taking
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Can use together with behavioral counseling or other non-medication therapies to treat ADHD
    Cons
    •Has a risk of misuse and dependency
    •A controlled medication, so there are special requirements for getting the prescription filled
    •Dose needs to be raised and lowered slowly to avoid side effects and withdrawal symptoms
    •Not available as a liquid or patch form (unlike methylphenidate (Ritalin))

  • Common Side Effects of Dexedrine vs. Adderall

    Common Side Effects for
    •Fast heartbeat
    •Loss of appetite
    •Stomach upset
    •Dry mouth
    •Dizziness
    •Headache
    •Tremors
    •Trouble sleeping
    Common Side Effects for
    •Upset stomach
    •Lower appetite
    •Weight loss
    •Nervousness
    •Changes in mood
    •Trouble sleeping

  • Warnings of Dexedrine vs. Adderall

    Common Side Effects for
    •Misuse and dependence
    •Serious heart-related problems
    •Aggressive behavior and psychosis
    •Slowed growth in children
    •Seizures
    •Blood circulation problems (such as Raynaud's phenomenon)
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Interactions with other medications
    Common Side Effects for
    •Misuse and addiction
    •Dependence and withdrawal
    •Serious heart problems
    •Aggressive behavior and psychosis
    •Slowed growth in children
    •Seizures
    •Blood circulation problems (such as Raynaud's phenomenon)
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Drug interactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Dexedrine vs. Adderall

    Learn more about Dextroamphetamine
    Learn more about Adderall

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