Many people living with ADHD or narcolepsy take stimulant medication to address symptoms associated with these conditions. If you are wondering about Dexedrine vs. Adderall, you’re not alone.
Two of the leading medicines prescribed are Dexedrine and Adderall. While they have many similarities, some important differences and dangers are associated with both if you misuse them.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is a stimulant medication used to treat symptoms associated with narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Adderall can increase your attention span, ability to focus, and energy levels. Because this drug is so effective, some people misuse it in an attempt to increase their productivity level. College-aged individuals, as well as people in fast-paced career fields, are particularly susceptible. Misuse can result in physical dependence and eventual addiction. It is a Schedule II drug with a high risk for abuse.
What Is Dexedrine?
Dexedrine (the brand name for dextroamphetamine) is a medicine that helps manage symptoms associated with narcolepsy and ADHD. Dextroamphetamine is one of the ingredients found in Adderall but is also commonly prescribed on its own to address impulse control and hyperactivity. Like Adderall, people can develop physical dependence and addiction if they misuse Dexedrine. This powerful stimulant is also considered a Schedule II drug by the Drug Enforcement Agency.
How Does This Type of Drug Work?
Although the mechanisms behind Adderall are not fully understood, it is generally thought to improve focus and attention by increasing neurotransmitter activity. These neurotransmitters include norepinephrine and dopamine, which regulate attention, concentration, and motivation.
Dexedrine is also a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that increases neurotransmitter activity. When this activity increases, users can control impulsive behaviors, maintain focus, and concentrate better.
Dexedrine vs. Adderall – Are They the Same?
No, Adderall and Dexedrine are not the same. Although they both work similarly, there are distinct differences between the two. First, Dexedrine only contains dextroamphetamine, while Adderall includes a mixture of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. For this reason, Dexedrine is stronger than Adderall. Although it is stronger, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be more effective at treating narcolepsy or ADHD, as each case is unique and depends on your brain’s response to the medication. Doctors do not prescribe Dexedrine as often as Adderall to treat ADHD or narcolepsy.
Are Dexedrine and Adderall Addictive?
Both Dexedrine and Adderall have the potential to be addictive due to their classification as Schedule II controlled substances under the United States Controlled Substances Act. This categorization indicates a high potential for abuse, which can lead to psychological or physical dependence. The addictive qualities of these medications stem from their ability to increase dopamine levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, movement, and attention. When used as prescribed, they effectively manage symptoms of ADHD and narcolepsy by enhancing focus and wakefulness.
However, misuse, such as taking higher doses than prescribed or using them without a prescription for their euphoric effects, significantly increases the risk of addiction. For this reason, it is crucial for individuals prescribed Dexedrine or Adderall to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions meticulously and communicate any concerns about their medication use.
Warning Signs of Stimulant Addiction
People who abuse Dexedrine, Adderall, or other stimulants are at a higher risk of developing an addiction.
Warning signs of stimulant addiction include:
- Developing tolerance (needing more of the medication to achieve the same effect)
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not taking the drug
- Using drugs despite knowing the harm it causes
- Failed attempts to cut down or control its drug misuse or abuse
If you or someone you know is struggling with dependence on Dexedrine or Adderall, seeking help from a medical professional is essential for addressing the addiction safely and effectively.
Stimulant Addiction Treatment Programs
Professional treatment is available for those struggling with stimulant misuse and addiction. By entering treatment, you can receive professional assistance to overcome stimulant abuse in a safe, supportive environment.
Although everyone’s treatment plan is unique to meet their specific needs, stimulant treatment involves steps to address the physical, psychological, and holistic needs of each client to get to the root of addiction.
- Medical detox – Medically supervised detox is usually the first step in stimulant addiction treatment. Medical professionals may administer medications and use a tapering schedule to ease withdrawal and safely decrease the amount of stimulants in your system.
- Inpatient or outpatient treatment – After detox, you may attend inpatient treatment, where you reside in a treatment center to receive the support you need in early recovery. This support may include individual and group therapy, medication management, and other components to help you develop the necessary tools to maintain recovery. Some people attend treatment on an outpatient basis, depending on their required level of care and individualized treatment plan.
- Aftercare – Once you complete addiction treatment, you still need to safeguard your recovery by participating in aftercare services, which can include continued therapy sessions, support group meetings, and positive coping mechanisms that support a healthy lifestyle free from substances.
Stimulant Addiction Treatment at Footprints to Recovery
Many people require specialized assistance to stop using Dexedrine and Adderall successfully. At Footprints to Recovery, we offer evidence-based treatment programs to address stimulant addiction and restore your mental and physical well-being. You can recover from stimulant addiction and enjoy a healthy and fulfilling life. Contact us today to get started.
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- ADDERALL XR Label
