Dextroamphetamine vs. Adderall

Dextroamphetamine (often branded as Dexedrine) and Adderall (a combination of amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) are medications used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Although they sound similar, there are differences between dextroamphetamine vs Adderall in how they work, how they affect people, and their strength.

This page explores issues like is dextroamphetamine the same as Adderall, how the medications are used, and what risks they carry. Whether prescribed to boost focus or reduce hyperactivity, knowing more about these medications will help you make safer and more informed choices.

What Is Dexedrine?

Dexedrine, known generically as dextroamphetamine, is a stimulant medication mainly used to treat ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and narcolepsy (a condition that triggers daytime sleepiness). [1] It stimulates the CNS (central nervous system), helping improve focus, reduce impulsive behavior, and increase attention span in those with ADHD. Dexedrine can also help individuals with narcolepsy stay awake during the day.

Dexedrine is a specific form of amphetamine—d-amphetamine—which is considered more potent than some other forms of this drug. This medication boosts certain brain chemicals (neurotransmitters), especially norepinephrine and dopamine. [2] These chemicals re responsible for regulating energy levels, mood, and focus, helping people with ADHD manage symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity.

The medication is available in different forms, including tablets and capsules. The tablet form is usually an immediate-release formulation, meaning it works quickly and usually lasts a few hours. The capsule form—Dexedrine Spansule—is an extended-release version designed to release the medication gradually throughout the day, requiring fewer doses. [3]

Although Dexedrine is effective for managing ADHD symptoms, it also carries some risks. Dexedrine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, which means it has a strong potential for misuse and addiction. [4] Take this medication only as directed by a healthcare provider to mitigate these risks.

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is another CNS stimulant commonly prescribed to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Unlike Dexedrine, Adderall is a combination of two stimulants: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. [5] This combination works together to help improve focus, manage hyperactivity, and reduce impulsive behaviors in people with ADHD. For those with narcolepsy, Adderall can help them stay focused and alert during the day.

The two active ingredients in Adderall have slightly different effects. D-amphetamine is stronger and acts quickly, while L-amphetamine has a milder and longer-lasting effect. By combining these ingredients, Adderall can provide a balanced effect, with quick symptom relief followed by a steadier release.

Adderall comes in two main forms: Adderall IR (immediate-release tablets) and Adderall XR (extended-release capsules). IT tablets start working within 30 to 60 minutes and last 4 to 6 hours. XR capsules last up to 12 hours, providing more sustained symptom control and often only needing one daily dose.

Also a Schedule II drug, Adderall has a similar risk of misuse and addiction to Dexedrine. People taking Adderall should follow their doctor’s instructions carefully and not take more than prescribed. Misusing Adderall can trigger severe health complications, including dependence, mental health changes, and heart problems.

The Differences Between Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) & Adderall

While both medications are stimulants used to manage ADHD and narcolepsy, there are some differences between dextroamphetamine vs Adderall. Dexedrine contains only one active ingredient (dextroamphetamine). This ingredient is a form of amphetamine that mainly boosts dopamine and norepinephrine, brain chemicals that govern focus and attention. Dexedrine is known for being strong and fast-acting, and its effects tend to be more concentrated. 

Adderall, by contrast, combines two forms of amphetamine: d-amphetamine (the same as in Dexedrine) and L-amphetamine. L-amphetamine is slightly weaker and slower-acting, creating a more balanced effect when combined with d-amphetamine. This combination may make Adderall feel milder for some people, especially over longer periods.

The release forms of each medication also differ. Dexedrine has an immediate-release form that works quickly, and an extended-release form called Dexedrine Spansule. Adderall also comes in immediate-release and extended-release versions. Adderall XR has a unique design delivering two doses in one capsule, providing a steady effect throughout the day. This makes Adderall XR convenient for people who need symptom control with a single morning dose, while Dexedrine may require more frequent dosing.

Overall, Dexedrine’s single, strong ingredient may make it a better choice for people who need quick and powerful symptom relief. Adderall’s mix of amphetamines is often preferred for those looking for a longer and more balanced effect. However, both medications can have side effects, and their effectiveness varies from person to person.

Are Dexedrine & Adderall the Same?

When comparing Dexedrine vs Adderall, the medications are not the same, although they share similarities. Both are amphetamines and work by stimulating the CNS. They help people with ADHD by increasing focus and reducing impulsive behavior. They differ in chemical makeup, strength, and duration of effects.

Dexedrine contains only d-amphetamine, a potent stimulant that rapidly activates brain chemicals related to focus and attention. Adderall, on the other hand, contains d-amphetamine combined with l-amphetamine, making the effects more balanced with a slightly slower onset and a longer-lasting effect.

Both medications are considered Schedule II drugs, meaning they have medical uses but a high potential for misuse and addiction. This classification requires doctors to prescribe them cautiously and individuals to use them responsibly. Misuse of either drug can lead to dependence and other health risks.

Dextroamphetamine vs Adderall Dosage

The dosages for dextroamphetamine vs Adderall vary based on age, symptom severity, and individual needs. Doctors normally start with a low dose and adjust it gradually to find the most effective amount with the fewest side effects.

For Dexedrine, dosages often start at 2.5mg to 5mg for children and may be increased by 2.5mg to 5mg increments as needed. Initial doses for adults are usually 5mg once or twice daily, increasing to a maximum daily dose of 40mg. Dexedrine also comes in an extended-release form, which is taken once daily.

Adderall’s starting dosage is similar. Children aged 3 to 5 usually start on doses of 2.5mg once daily, with adjustments as needed. For those aged 6+, the dose normally begins at 5mg once or twice daily. Adderall doses for adults also range from 5mg to 40mg daily, depending on individual needs and response to the medication. Adderall XR—the extended-release version—is often taken in the morning and lasts up to 12 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.

While there is overlap in the dosage ranges for Adderall vs dextroamphetamine, the effects may vary due to their chemical differences. Individuals taking either medication should follow their doctor’s guidance on dosage to manage symptoms effectively and avoid potential side effects or misuse.

Dextroamphetamine vs Adderall—Which is Stronger?

Determining whether dextroamphetamine vs Adderall is stronger depends on how each medication affects the individual Dextroamphetamine is generally considered stronger because it contains only d-amphetamine, a powerful stimulant. Adderall, by contrast, blends d-amphetamine with l-amphetamine, which is milder and can balance and lessen the effects of Adderall for some people.

Is the D-amphetamine Salt Combo the Same as Adderall?

The d-amphetamine salt combo is similar to Adderall but not the same. Adderall is made from a combination of d-amphetamine and l-amphetamine salts, with a 3:1 ratio favoring d-amphetamine. This specific blend is designed to provide a rapid-acting and balanced effect that lasts longer. The d-amphetamine component gives a strong and fast effect, while the l-amphetamine adds a slower and more gradual release. 

A medication like Dexedrine containing only d-amphetamine salts, by contrast, delivers a more intense effect without the balance provided by l-amphetamine. This can make d-amphetamine-only medications feel more powerful and concentrated in their action, although the effects may not last as long as those from a combination of salts like Adderall.

Similarities Between Adderall & Dextroamphetamine

There are many similarities between dextroamphetamine vs Adderall, as they are both stimulants used chiefly to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Both belong to the amphetamine class of drugs, meaning they work by stimulating the central nervous system. This stimulation helps increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, helping improve focus, attention, and impulse control.

Additionally, both medications come in immediate-release and extended-release versions, offering flexibility for those needing short-term symptom control or all-day relief. The two drugs also have similar side effects, such as dry mouth, appetite loss, difficulty sleeping, and potential increases in blood pressure and heart rate. Both Adderall and dextroamphetamine are Schedule II controlled substances with the potential for misuse, dependence, and addiction.

Amphetamine Sulfate vs Adderall

Amphetamine sulfate is another form of stimulant medication sometimes used to treat ADHD, narcolepsy, and similar conditions, but it’s not the same as Adderall. [6] While Adderall uses a mixture of amphetamine salts, amphetamine sulfate refers to a pure form of amphetamine without the mixed-salt combination. 

The substance may work similarly to Adderall by stimulating the brain to improve focus and reduce hyperactive behavior. That said, it lacks the balance of Adderall, and its effects might feel stronger or more immediate while not lasting as long. It may also trigger side effects more quickly and intensely.

Choosing between amphetamine sulfate and Adderall usually depends on individual treatment response and which formulation a doctor feels is best for managing symptoms without unwanted side effects.

What Is Stronger Than Adderall?

With ADHD medications, stronger can mean how intense the effects are, how long they last, and how likely they are to provoke adverse effects. Some stimulant medications like lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) are considered stronger because they are long-acting and may provide more sustained symptom relief throughout the day. Vyvanse also has a lower misuse potential because it is only activated after being metabolized.

Medications that contain pure d-amphetamine, such as Dexedrine can feel stronger than Adderall because of the more potent form of amphetamine used in the drug. Dexedrine may work faster and with more immediate effects, but it also carries an increased risk of side effects.

What Is Better: Dextroamphetamine or Adderall?

Whether dextroamphetamine vs Adderall is better largely hinges on lifestyle, individual needs, response to medication, and lifestyle. Dextroamphetamine, with its singular focus on d-amphetamine, may better suit those who need a fast-acting, strong effect. It can be especially effective for people who require rapid symptom relief for short periods—during work or school hours, for instance.

Adderall’s combination of d-amphetamine and l-amphetamine provides a balanced effect more suitable for individuals requiring an extended, steady release of effects. With both immediate-release and extended-release forms, Adderall can offer flexibility for those needing consistent, all-day symptom management.

Warning Signs of Stimulant Abuse & Addiction

Because Adderall and dextroamphetamine are both stimulants with a high potential for misuse recognizing the warning signs of abuse and addiction can inform timely intervention and effective treatment. Stimulant misuse often starts when someone uses the medication in higher doses than prescribed or takes it without a prescription to boost energy or improve focus. Warning signs of stimulant abuse include:

• Taking larger or more frequent doses than prescribed.
• Using the drug recreationally.
• Altering the method of delivery, such as crushing and snorting the pills.
• Experiencing intense cravings.
• Feeling unable to function without the medication.
• Noticing significant appetite or weight loss.
• Displaying unusual levels of energy, agitation, or restlessness.
• Engaging in doctor shopping to obtain multiple prescriptions.

Long-term stimulant misuse can provoke physical and mental health complications, including high blood pressure, heart problems, physical dependence, and psychological issues like aggression or paranoia. If you or someone you care about is misusing stimulants, reach out to a healthcare provider or addiction specialist to kickstart recovery.

Recovery Starts Here—Get Insurance-Covered and Compassionate Addiction Treatment at Renaissance Recovery

If you need help for yourself or a loved one misusing stimulants like Dexedrine or Adderall, reach out to Renaissance Recovery. We treat addictions and mental health conditions in an outpatient setting at our rehab centers in California and Florida.

We can help you withdraw from stimulants with a tapered reduction and access to continuous clinical and emotional care. You can then transition to ongoing outpatient treatment, attending therapy sessions while living at home and continuing with work or school.

The unique nature of all stimulant addictions means treatment plans at Renaissance are personalized. Therapies may include:

• Motivational therapy
• Counseling
• Medication management
• Talk therapy
• Holistic treatments
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Aftercare

When you’re ready to address prescription drug addiction, call 866-330-9449.

Sources

[1] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a605027.html

[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556103/

[3] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2015/017078s048lbl.pdf

[4] https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling

[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507808/

[6] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6513464/