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.
