Adderall vs. Dexamphetamine

Attribute	Adderall	Dexamphetamine
Brand Name	Adderall	Dexedrine
Active Ingredients	Amphetamine salts (75% dextroamphetamine and 25% levoamphetamine)	Dextroamphetamine
Formulations	Immediate-release and extended-release	Immediate-release
Duration of Action	4-6 hours (immediate-release), 10-12 hours (extended-release)	4-6 hours
Approved Uses	ADHD, narcolepsy	ADHD, narcolepsy
Common Side Effects	Insomnia, loss of appetite, weight loss, headache	Insomnia, loss of appetite, weight loss, headache

Introduction

Adderall and Dexamphetamine are both central nervous system stimulants commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. While they belong to the same class of medications, there are some key differences between the two drugs that patients and healthcare providers should be aware of.

Mechanism of Action

Adderall is a combination of amphetamine salts, including dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine. It works by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control. Dexamphetamine, on the other hand, contains only dextroamphetamine and has a similar mechanism of action to Adderall.

Formulations

Adderall is available in both immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (XR) formulations. The IR version typically lasts for about 4-6 hours, while the XR version can last up to 12 hours. Dexamphetamine, on the other hand, is usually available in an IR formulation that lasts for about 4-6 hours.

Side Effects

Both Adderall and Dexamphetamine can cause similar side effects, including insomnia, decreased appetite, dry mouth, and irritability. However, some patients may experience different side effects with each medication. For example, Adderall may be more likely to cause anxiety and jitteriness, while Dexamphetamine may be more likely to cause headaches and dizziness.

Drug Interactions

Both Adderall and Dexamphetamine can interact with a variety of other medications, including antidepressants, antacids, and certain antibiotics. It is important for patients to inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking before starting either medication to avoid potential interactions. Additionally, both drugs have the potential for abuse and should be used with caution in patients with a history of substance abuse.

Effectiveness

Studies have shown that both Adderall and Dexamphetamine are effective in treating ADHD and narcolepsy. However, some patients may respond better to one medication over the other. It may be necessary to try both medications to determine which one works best for an individual patient.

Cost

Cost can be a significant factor for many patients when choosing between Adderall and Dexamphetamine. Adderall is available as a brand-name medication and can be more expensive than generic dextroamphetamine, which is the active ingredient in Dexamphetamine. Patients should check with their insurance provider to see which medication is covered and may be more affordable for them.

Conclusion

While Adderall and Dexamphetamine are both effective medications for treating ADHD and narcolepsy, there are some differences between the two drugs that patients and healthcare providers should consider. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of each medication with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for each individual patient.