Adderall vs. Dexedrine for ADHD
Adderall and Dexedrine are commonly prescribed medications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). These medications can improve focus, attention and impulse control.
When choosing the best medication, it is important to take into account some of the differences between Dexedrine (a stimulant) and Adderall.
This article will compare and contrast Dexedrine with Adderall. It will also discuss their dosages, durations of action, potential side effects, and formulations.
What is Adderall?
Adderall contains dextroamphetamine, a stimulant of the central nervous system (CNS), and amphetamine. It helps manage ADHD, narcolepsy and other disorders.
Adderall's mechanism of action is still not completely understood. It is believed that Adderall improves focus and attention by increasing the activity of neurotransmitters. This includes dopamine, norepinephrine, and 2.
Adderall does this by increasing the release of neurotransmitters in the brain and blocking their reabsorption. The amount of chemicals in the brain that remain is increased.
These neurotransmitters, which stimulate the brain, can increase alertness, attention and impulse control.
What is Dexedrine, and what does it do?
Dexedrine, like Adderall, is a CNS stimulant. It only contains dextroamphetamine.
Dexedrine can also be used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It also increases neurotransmitters in the brain, such as norepinephrine and dopamine. 3
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Dexedrine also contains the strongest form of amphetamine, called dextroamphetamine. Adderall contains a ratio of 3:1 dextroamphetamine to amphetamine. Dexedrine has a stronger effect than Adderall. 4
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Adderall vs Dexedrine: How to take each
Adderall or Dexedrine are administered in different ways and at different dosages depending on the medication, condition being treated and individual needs.
Below is a list of the common forms of Dexedrine (Adderall) and Dexedrine.
- Dexedrine is available in two different forms: a tablet and a solution.
- Adderall instant release is only available as tablets.
- Dexedrine extended-release and Adderall come in capsule form.
When you need a medication that will last throughout the day, extended-release formulations may be preferred. If you want to get relief from symptoms quickly, however, immediate-release formulations are better.
Dexedrine Dosing for ADHD
The following are the Dexedrine dosage guidelines for ADHD:
- Dexedrine solution or tablets for children aged 3 to 5 years: Start with 2.5 milligrams daily in the morning. If necessary, the dosage can be increased to 2.5 milligrams every week.
- Dexedrine solution or tablets for ages 6-16: Start with 5 milligrams once or twice daily. If necessary, the medication can be increased to 40 milligrams per day. Take the first dose early in the morning and the second dose between four and six hours later.
- Dexedrine capsules for children aged six and older: Start with 5 milligrams once daily.
Adderall dosage for ADHD
Adderall dosage guidelines for ADHD include:
- Adderall instant release for children aged 3 to 5: Start with 2.5 milligrams in the morning. If necessary, the medication can be increased by 2.5 mg once a week.
- Adderall instant release for children aged six and older: The first dose is 5 milligrams, once or twice a day. Take the first dose early in the morning and the second dose between four and six hours later. Take no more than 40 mg per day. 4
- Adderall Extended Release (Adderall XR): For ages 6-12, the first dose is 5 or 10 mg once daily in the morning. Take no more than 30 mg per day. 8
- Adderall for teens aged 13-17: Start with 10 mg once daily in the morning.
- Adderall for adults 18 years and older: The first dose is 20 milligrams taken orally in the morning.
How long does it take for Dexedrine or Adderall to work?
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Adderall immediate release, and Dexedrine usually wear off after 4 to 6 hours. If you use Adderall Extended Release, it can last for up to 12 hours. 9 6
Dexedrine sustained-release tablets can last up to 10 hours. 7
What are the side effects?
Both Dexedrine (as well as Adderall) share the same side effects. Both Dexedrine (Dexedrine) and Adderall have similar side effects.
- Feeling nervous or excited
- Sleeping disorders
- Headache
- Constipation, diarrhoea or upset stomach
- Loss of appetite
- Dry Mouth
- Weight loss
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- High Blood Pressure
- Problems with body movement control
- Slow growth in children
- Seizures are more common in people who have a history of seizures
- Changes in vision, including blurred vision
Safety Considerations
Adderall, Dexedrine and other Schedule II substances are classified. They are controlled at the highest level for drugs because of their high potential for abuse.
Schedule II substances are subject to strict regulations, including a written prescription or electronic prescription, as well as restrictions on their storage, distribution and prescribing. As a controlled substance, these medications must be used under medical supervision and safely.
Take Adderall or Dexedrine as directed. Overdosing can cause symptoms like:
- Restlessness
- Tremor
- Rapid Breathing
- Hallucinations
- Rhabdomyolysis
If you have: 4
- Heart Disease
- High blood pressure
- Hyperthyroidism
- Glaucoma
- Use of monoamine oxide (MAO) inhibitor within the last 14 days
- Other stimulants can cause sensitivity or allergies
Serotonin Syndrome can occur when amphetamines such as Dexedrine and Adderall are taken with other drugs, which increase serotonin levels in the body. These medications include, but are not restricted to:
- MAO Inhibitors
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs).
- Triptans
Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking, including OTC, prescription, dietary supplements and herbal remedies.
Dexedrine or Adderall? Which is right for you?
You and your doctor should work together to choose the best ADHD medication. Ask questions and give feedback about how the medication is affecting you. This will guide the decision-making process and ensure that you receive the best treatment for your specific needs.
- Adderall Adderall is available for children and adults ages three and older.
- Adderall instant-release tablets can stay in the body for up to 6 hours.
- Adderall Extended-Release can stay in the body for up to 12 hours.
- A 30-day supply can cost around $30.
- DexedrineDexedrine is only approved for ADHD in children aged 3-16. FDA has not approved Dexedrine to treat ADHD in adults older than 16.
- Dexedrine tablets or solution can stay in the body from four to six hours
- The Dexedrine Extended-Release can stay in the body for 8 to 10 hours.
- A 30-day supply of generic Dexedrine dextroamphetamine can cost around $175.
You can read more about it here:
Adderall and Dexedrine, both CNS stimulants, are used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Both increase dopamine, norepinephrine, and other neurotransmitters in the brain, which help regulate attention, focus and impulse control.
Adderall is different because it contains both amphetamines and dextroamphetamine. Dexedrine contains only dextroamphetamine. Adderall is approved by the FDA for children aged 3-16, whereas Dexedrine can also be used as a treatment for ADHD.
Both medications can cause side effects such as feeling nervous or excited, nausea, dry mouth, and loss of appetite. Adderall and Dexedrine both fall under Schedule II medications. The government regulates this drug because of its potential for abuse and dependence.
