Dextroamphetamine vs Adderall: Difference Between Them
When discussing the difference between dextroamphetamine and Adderall, we should mention that even if these drugs have much in common, the difference between them is significant. Dextroamphetamine is a CNS stimulant that contains dextroamphetamine salt, while Adderall includes several amphetamine salts, namely dextroamphetamine and amphetamine.
The selection of medicine (either dextroamphetamine or Adderall) depends on the patient’s health condition and the doctor’s recommendation. These two medicines are used in the treatment of different diseases, including ADHD.
What Is Dextroamphetamine?
Dextroamphetamine is a CNS stimulant. The medicine can be found in various forms; thus, there are tablets, liquid, and extended-release capsules of dextroamphetamine. This medicine is used in the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy.
This medicine affects the work of some natural substances in the brain. You need to follow the prescribed instructions, since it is a stimulant.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is the trade name of several amphetamine salts (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine). According to the information provided in FDA labeling, Adderall consists of the following salts: dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate.
Adderall is available in the form of tablets.
Dextroamphetamine vs Adderall: Key Differences
| Feature | Dextroamphetamine | Adderall |
| Medication type | Dextroamphetamine | Combination of amphetamine salts |
| Contains dextroamphetamine | Yes | Yes |
| Contains other amphetamine components | No, as a single-ingredient product | Yes |
| ADHD use | Yes | Yes |
| Narcolepsy use | Yes | Adderall is also used for narcolepsy |
| Formulations | Tablet, liquid, extended-release capsule | Immediate-release tablet; extended-release Adderall XR |
| Prescription required | Yes | Yes |
The exact formulation and approved uses depend on the specific product.
Is Dextroamphetamine the Same as Adderall?
Dextroamphetamine vs. Adderall – Are They the Same?
Although Adderall contains amphetamine salts, products containing dextroamphetamine do not contain other substances besides dextroamphetamine.
Because of the different pharmacokinetics, equivalent dosages in milligrams are not always interchangeable.
Which Is Stronger?
This question cannot be easily answered, as a stronger product is not necessarily the best for a particular patient.
The comparative strength depends on several aspects:
- Specific medication
- Dose
- Metabolism of an individual
- Release method
- Medical condition
- Other medications
- Response to the drug
Healthcare professionals prescribe the proper drug and dose rather than compare the dosage in mg of two products.
Immediate-Release and Extended-Release Products
Another aspect to consider is how quickly the medication starts releasing.
For example, the immediate-release product will release its active substance faster and will require more doses during the day.
At the same time, the extended-release products provide for longer action of the drug.
For instance, Adderall is an immediate-release tablet, while Adderall XR is an extended-release capsule.
Also, there are both immediate-release and extended-release products containing dextroamphetamine.
Medication for the Treatment of ADHD
Both dextroamphetamine and Adderall can be prescribed as medication for ADHD.
ADHD causes troubles with:
- Concentration
- Focus
- Impulse control
- Organization
- Hyperactivity
However, medication is just a part of the treatment strategy.
According to MedlinePlus, both dextroamphetamine and amphetamine-based medications should be used within the whole complex treatment program.
Medication for Narcolepsy
Also, dextroamphetamine can be used for the treatment of narcolepsy.
Narcolepsy is characterized by:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Attacks of sleep
In addition, Adderall is a medication for the treatment of narcolepsy, according to MedlinePlus.
The indications differ by product; thus, it is important to consider the particular prescription.
Side Effects
As mentioned before, both Adderall and dextroamphetamine are stimulant medications.
Thus, their side effects are quite similar and include:
- Decreased appetite
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Restlessness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Anxiety
- Abdominal distress
More severe side effects associated with the cardiovascular system may occur in cases of abuse and health issues.
Risk of Misuse and Dependence
Dextroamphetamine and Adderall have the same potential for abuse and dependence.
According to MedlinePlus, excessive use, regular intake, and other ways of using it compared with prescription use can cause problems.
Do not:
- Share your medications;
- Use someone else’s prescription;
- Take additional dosages without discussing it with a healthcare specialist;
- Change extended-release formula without instructions;
- Stop taking the drug suddenly without consultation.
Which Medication Is Better?
The question of which drug is preferable is not so easy.
The healthcare specialist takes into consideration:
- Presence of ADHD or narcolepsy;
- Reaction to the previous drugs;
- Presence of side effects;
- Duration of treatment needed;
- Other medications;
- Medical history;
- Age of the patient;
- Preferences for formulations.
One patient may have a positive reaction to one stimulant, but another person needs a different formulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Adderall dextroamphetamine?
No, as Adderall includes other salts of amphetamines besides dextroamphetamine, the drugs are different.
Is it possible to switch from dextroamphetamine to Adderall?
Consult your doctor before switching medicines. The absorption rate of dextroamphetamine differs from that of Adderall. You should not substitute these drugs in the ratio 1 mg/1mg.
Is it possible to take both drugs for ADHD treatment?
Yes, both drugs can be used for the treatment of ADHD.
Which drug is more effective – dextroamphetamine or Adderall?
Neither of the drugs is stronger; the effectiveness will depend on the formulation and personal reaction to the drug.
Are both drugs prescription drugs?
Yes, both drugs are prescription drugs.
Conclusion
The key difference between dextroamphetamine and Adderall is the composition of the drugs. While dextroamphetamine consists of a single compound, Adderall includes several salts of amphetamine, including dextroamphetamine. Both dextroamphetamine and Adderall can be taken for ADHD treatment.
Choosing the drugs and their doses should be done under the supervision of a healthcare specialist. The formulations and doses are not interchangeable; thus, you cannot switch your medications and doses yourself.
