Both dextroamphetamine and Adderall are prescription central nervous system (CNS) stimulants widely used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Despite their similar applications and shared amphetamine class, they possess distinct chemical compositions that result in different therapeutic effects, strength profiles, and approved age ranges.
Dextroamphetamine: The Single-Isomer Stimulant
Dextroamphetamine, often known by the brand name Dexedrine, contains a single active ingredient: dextroamphetamine sulfate. This is the more potent and rapidly acting of the two main amphetamine isomers (d-amphetamine and l-amphetamine). By containing only this one powerful component, dextroamphetamine provides a more concentrated and intense effect on attention and focus.
- Potency: Considered stronger per milligram than Adderall due to its singular, potent ingredient.
- Effects: Its effects tend to be more focused on boosting attention and concentration, with less emphasis on the physical energy boost associated with the l-amphetamine component.
- Formulations: Dextroamphetamine comes in various forms, including immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules (e.g., Dexedrine Spansule), and liquid solutions.
- Approved Age: For ADHD, the FDA has approved dextroamphetamine for use in children as young as 3, depending on the specific formulation.
Adderall: The Mixed Amphetamine Salts
Adderall, in contrast, is a combination drug containing four different amphetamine salts in a specific ratio: dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate. It contains both dextroamphetamine (the d-amphetamine isomer) and levoamphetamine (the l-amphetamine isomer), typically in a 3:1 ratio favoring dextroamphetamine.
- Balanced Effects: The inclusion of both isomers provides a more balanced therapeutic effect. The d-amphetamine acts quickly to improve focus, while the l-amphetamine has a milder, longer-lasting effect that enhances physical energy.
- Formulations: Adderall is available in immediate-release (IR) tablets and extended-release (XR) capsules, which release medication over a longer period, often requiring only one dose per day.
- Approved Age: For ADHD, Adderall is approved for a broader age range, including adults and children as young as 3 for IR and 6 for XR versions.
Side Effects and Risks
Since both medications are CNS stimulants in the amphetamine class, they share many potential side effects, including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, and loss of appetite. They are also both classified as Schedule II controlled substances by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), indicating a high potential for misuse and dependence.
Notable Side Effect Differences
- Dextroamphetamine: Some users may experience tremors or stomach upset with dextroamphetamine more than with Adderall.
- Adderall: Potential side effects more commonly associated with Adderall include anxiety, nausea, and diarrhea. Additionally, some users have reported motor tics.
A Quick Comparison of Dextroamphetamine vs. Adderall
| Feature | Dextroamphetamine (e.g., Dexedrine) | Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Contains a single active ingredient: dextroamphetamine sulfate. | Contains four amphetamine salts, including both dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine isomers. |
| Relative Potency | Considered more potent on a per-milligram basis, offering a concentrated effect. | The mix of isomers can create a milder or more balanced effect for some users. |
| Therapeutic Effects | Primarily focuses on mental alertness, attention, and focus. | Offers both mental focus (from d-amphetamine) and physical energy (from l-amphetamine). |
| Onset/Duration | Can be faster-acting with a more concentrated peak. | Provides a more balanced release over time, with XR versions lasting up to 12 hours. |
| Formulations | Available in immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules (Spansule), and liquid solution. | Available in immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (XR) tablets and capsules. |
| FDA Age Approval (ADHD) | Some formulations approved for children as young as 3. | IR approved for children as young as 3; XR approved for children 6 and older. |
| Cost | Less expensive generic forms are available, but brand-name costs differ. | Lower-cost generic versions (mixed amphetamine salts) are available. |
Which is right for you?
Choosing between dextroamphetamine and Adderall is a decision made with a healthcare provider, taking into account individual needs, response to the medication, and lifestyle factors. For example, someone who needs a consistent, all-day effect might prefer Adderall XR, while another individual requiring a potent, quick-acting focus boost might find dextroamphetamine more suitable. It is crucial to follow your doctor's specific prescription and not to interchange these medications, as their differing formulas can impact your body's response. The specific formulation that works best for managing symptoms can only be determined through careful medical supervision.
For more information on the combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine, you can consult resources like MedlinePlus. Based on information from MedlinePlus, the combination is used as part of a total treatment program for ADHD.
Conclusion
In summary, while dextroamphetamine and Adderall belong to the same class of central nervous system stimulants and are used for similar purposes, they are not the same medication. The fundamental difference lies in their active ingredients: dextroamphetamine is a single, more potent stimulant (d-amphetamine), whereas Adderall is a mix of both d-amphetamine and the milder, longer-acting l-amphetamine. This chemical distinction influences the medication's strength, balance of effects, and duration of action. When considering treatment for ADHD or narcolepsy, understanding these differences is essential for making an informed decision with a healthcare provider.
