Millions of people in the United States take prescription stimulant drugs to manage the symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other conditions. Adderall and Dexedrine are two of the most common prescription stimulants people take to treat ADHD.
Adderall and Dexedrine have similar effects. However, there are critical differences between these medications. Understanding these differences will help you make the best decisions about your care.
This article will provide an overview of Adderall vs Dexedrine. You will learn:
What you will learn:
- The effects and risks of Adderall abuse
- The effects and risks of Dexedrine abuse
- The differences between Adderall and Dexedrine
- How to spot the signs of stimulant abuse and addiction
- Where to find treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love struggles with prescription stimulant abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find compassionate, evidence-based treatment at Alamo Behavioral Health. Learn about our programs or schedule an intake appointment by contacting our treatment specialists today.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved prescription stimulant. It contains a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Adderall is a commonly prescribed central nervous system (CNS) stimulant used to treat ADHD symptoms and other conditions.
The FDA first approved Adderall in 1996. Later, the manufacturers released Adderall XR, a slow-release tablet.
Like other stimulant medications, Adderall has the potential for abuse and physical dependence. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies Adderall as a Schedule II drug. People must take Adderall exactly as prescribed to reduce the risk of dependence.
The Effects and Risks of Adderall Abuse
Adderall may cause unwanted side effects. People who take larger doses of the drug or take it without a prescription may be at higher risk for common side effects that include:
- Mood swings
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Reduced appetite
- Weight loss
- Anxiety
- Difficulty sleeping
- Rapid heart rate
Some people experience dangerous side effects when taking Adderall, including:
- Psychosis
- Mania
- Slowed growth (in children)
- Circulatory problems
- Heart attack
- Stroks
- Elevated heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Vision changes
- Seizures
- Serotonin syndrome
- Addiction
Adderall is a controlled substance. People who take Adderall as prescribed have a low risk of developing addiction. However, people who abuse Adderall and other ADHD medications may develop tolerance and physical dependence over time.
What is Dexedrine?
Dexedrine is the brand name for a medication called dextroamphetamine. In the past, many people took Dexedrine to manage the symptoms of ADHD or a sleep disorder called narcolepsy.
The FDA approved Dexedrine in 1976. However, doctors do not often prescribe dexedrine because of its high risk for abuse and dependence. People who take Dexedrine may become addicted to it after a short period of abuse.
The Effects and Risks of Dexedrine Abuse
Like other prescription stimulants, Dexedrine has the risk of side effects. Potential side effects of Dexedrine include:
- Loss of appetite
- Rapid heart rate
- Tremors
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Sleep problems
People may experience more severe side effects when taking Dexedrine, including:
- Serotonin syndrome
- Psychosis
- Stroke
- Seizures
- High blood pressure
- Heart attack
- Vision changes
- Worsening mental health symptoms
People who abuse Dexedrine by taking higher doses are more likely to experience unwanted or dangerous side effects.
What is the Difference Between Adderall and Dexedrine?
Adderall and Dexedrine have some similarities. They are both prescription stimulants used to treat ADHD. Both have the potential for abuse and addiction.
However, there are some key differences between these drugs. Here is an overview of the differences between Adderall and Dexedrine.
Active ingredients
Dexedrine contains dextroamphetamine. Adderall contains a combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine.
Drug forms
Adderall is available in immediate-release and extended-release pills. Dexedrine is available in liquid form, tablet, and extended-release tablet.
Symptom relief
Adderall’s effects may last longer than the effects of Dexedrine.
Side effects
Adderall may have fewer unwanted side effects than Dexedrine.
Anyone who abuses prescription stimulants may develop unwanted side effects, tolerance, or addiction. It is critical to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of stimulant abuse.
Signs of Stimulant Abuse and Addiction
Prescription stimulant abuse can cause unwanted side effects and dangerous complications, including addiction. Stimulant abuse includes:
- Taking larger doses than prescribed
- Taking a stimulant drug more often than prescribed
- Using a drug for a longer period than prescribed
- Ingesting a drug differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting tablets
- Recreational stimulant use (using a prescription stimulant without a prescription)
Stimulant abuse can cause significant changes in a person’s behaviors, appearance, and more. Some signs of stimulant abuse include:
- Quick, dramatic weight loss
- Excessive energy or talkativeness
- Agitation
- Dilated pupils
- Increased activity
- Neglecting hygiene, hobbies, relationships, or responsibilities
- Running out of a prescription early
- Having withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking a stimulant drug
- Doing dishonest or illegal things to get more of a prescription drug
People with stimulant addiction may continue to use these drugs, even when they cause significant harm. Most people with stimulant addiction require intensive treatment and ongoing support to stop taking them.
Find Treatment Now
It can be challenging to overcome stimulant abuse and addiction. Alamo Behavioral Health offers comprehensive treatment programs that give people the support they need at every stage of recovery. Contact our intake specialists to learn more about our programs or to schedule your first appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Neurocognitive, Autonomic, and Mood Effects of Adderall: A Pilot Study of Healthy College Students
- NIH: Amphetamine
- NIH: Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Dexedrine
