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Dexedrine vs. Adderall XR

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

Key takeaways

Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine Spansule, ProCentra, Zenzedi) and Adderall XR (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts extended release) are both stimulant medications used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They also share the off-label use of treating narcolepsy. However, they differ in several ways. Dextroamphetamine is a single-ingredient medication available in immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules, and a liquid solution, while Adderall XR is a combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts available only in extended-release capsules. Dextroamphetamine can be used in children as young as 3 years old, whereas Adderall XR is typically used for children 6 years and older. Both medications have a risk of misuse and dependency, but Adderall XR is often considered a first-choice medication for ADHD. Common side effects for both include trouble sleeping and loss of appetite, headaches, and nervousness. Both medications can interact with other drugs, especially those affecting serotonin levels, and should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Dextroamphetamine

 

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Adderall XR

 

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Summary for Dexedrine

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).

Indications for Dexedrine

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

Pros and Cons for Dexedrine

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

Common Side Effects for Dexedrine

  • Fast heartbeat
  • Loss of appetite
  • Stomach upset
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Tremors
  • Trouble sleeping

Warnings for Dexedrine

  • 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

Summary for Adderall XR

Prescription only

Adderall XR is the extended-release version of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salt combo. It's a stimulant used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in people 6 years and older. It comes as a capsule that you take once a day in the morning. The prescriber can adjust the dosage depending on how well it helps you focus and if you have side effects that bother you. These side effects can include low appetite, stomach pain, and trouble sleeping. It's a controlled substance because of its high risk of misuse and dependency. Adderall XR is available as a brand-name medication and a generic.

Indications for Adderall XR

Pros and Cons for Adderall XR

Pros

  • A first-choice medication for ADHD
  • Only taken once a day
  • Starts working within 45 minutes and lasts for up to 12 hours
  • Can open capsules and mix contents with applesauce if you have trouble swallowing pills whole

Cons

  • Has a risk of misuse and dependency
  • A controlled medication, so there are special requirements for getting the prescription filled
  • Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop the medication too suddenly
  • Not the best choice for people with heart conditions

Common Side Effects for Adderall XR

Children:

Adults:

  • Dry mouth
  • Low appetite
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Headache
  • Feeling nervous
  • Weight loss

Warnings for Adderall XR

  • Risk of misuse and addiction
  • Risks to people with serious heart conditions
  • Higher blood pressure and faster heart rate
  • Strange thoughts or behaviors
  • Slow growth in children
  • Seizures
  • Problems with blood flow in the arms and legs, including Raynaud's phenomenon
  • Serotonin syndrome

Prices with our coupons for Dexedrine vs. Adderall XR

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Dextroamphetamine60 tablets / 10mg
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Amphetamine Salt Combo XR (Adderall XR)30 capsules / 30mg
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