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Compare Xelstrym vs. Adderall

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

Key takeaways

Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine) and Adderall (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts) are both stimulant medications used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They work by increasing levels of certain chemicals in the brain, like norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. However, they differ in several ways. Xelstrym is a transdermal patch applied to the skin, while Adderall is an oral tablet. Xelstrym is only approved for ADHD, whereas Adderall is also approved for narcolepsy. Xelstrym is typically used once a day for up to 9 hours, while Adderall lasts about 4 to 6 hours and so may need to be taken several times per day. Xelstrym is only available as a branded medication, but Adderall comes in a lower-cost generic form. Common side effects for both include trouble sleeping and loss of appetite, but Xelstrym can also cause skin irritation at the application site. Both medications have a risk of misuse and dependence, and you should avoid alcohol while using them.

  • Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine)
    Adderall
  • Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine)
    Adderall

  • Summary of Xelstrym vs. Adderall

    Summary for Stimulant
    Prescription only

    Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine) is the second stimulant patch approved for the treatment of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It's placed on the skin 2 hours before you need the effects of the medication to start, and it's kept on for up to 9 hours to last throughout the day. This medication can commonly cause headache, trouble sleeping, and a loss of appetite. Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine) is a controlled substance due to the risk of abuse and dependence.

    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 Xelstrym vs. Adderall

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

  • Pros and Cons of Xelstrym vs. Adderall

    Pros and Const for Stimulant
    Pros
    •Can use in adults and children 6 years and older
    •Used once per day because it lasts a long time
    •An option to switch from taking stimulants by mouth to Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine) patch – but with some dose adjustments
    •Can bathe, shower, or swim with the patch on
    Cons
    •Takes 2 hours to start working
    •A controlled medication, so there are special requirements for getting the prescription filled
    •Not the best choice for pregnant or breastfeeding females or people with heart conditions
    •Might worsen tics or Tourette syndrome if you already have these 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 Xelstrym vs. Adderall

    Common Side Effects for
    •Low appetite (12%)
    •Difficulty sleeping (8%)
    •Headache (6%)

    ^*Side effects were reported for children younger than 18 years old. Side effects might differ in adults.^

    Common Side Effects for
    •Upset stomach
    •Lower appetite
    •Weight loss
    •Nervousness
    •Changes in mood
    •Trouble sleeping

  • Warnings of Xelstrym vs. Adderall

    Common Side Effects for
    •Abuse and dependence
    •Serious heart problems
    •Aggressive behavior and other changes in behavior
    •Slowed growth in children
    •Blood circulation problems (such as Raynaud's phenomenon)
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Skin reactions and skin sensitivity
    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 Xelstrym vs. Adderall

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    Learn more about Adderall

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