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Dextroamphetamine vs. Adderall

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

Key takeaways

Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) and Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) are part of a group of medications called stimulants. They both treat ADHD and narcolepsy. They're both a type of stimulant called amphetamines. And they’re both short-acting, or immediate-release (IR) amphetamines, though they both have extended-release forms as well. Dexedrine is taken 1 to 2 times a day usually while Adderall may be taken 2 to 3 times a day. They’re both controlled substances and can lead to dependence and misuse. Taking them only as prescribed can help decrease these risks.

Dextroamphetamine

 

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Adderall

 

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Summary for Dextroamphetamine

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 Dextroamphetamine

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

Pros and Cons for Dextroamphetamine

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 Dextroamphetamine

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

Warnings for Dextroamphetamine

  • 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

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 for Adderall

Pros and Cons for Adderall

Pros

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 for Adderall

  • Upset stomach
  • Lower appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Nervousness
  • Changes in mood
  • Trouble sleeping

Warnings for Adderall

  • 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 Dextroamphetamine vs. Adderall

Price Card Drug Icon
Dextroamphetamine60 tablets / 10mg
$40.34$205.90
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Amphetamine Salt Combo30 tablets / 20mg
$16.99$47.51
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