Dextroamphetamine
Dexedrine · Adderall · XELSTRYM
CNS Stimulant (Amphetamine-based)Schedule IIGeneric available
Amphetamines are non-catecholamine sympathomimetic amines with CNS stimulant activity. The exact mode of therapeutic action in ADHD is not known.
Compare Dextroamphetamine →FDA-Approved Indications
- ADHD (adults; pediatric 6+)
- Narcolepsy (adults; pediatric 6+; oral formulations)
Common Off-Label Uses
- Narcolepsy
- Treatment-resistant depression (augmentation)
What Sets This Drug Apart
- Pure d-amphetamine (not mixed d/l-salts like Adderall); approximately 1.5-2x more potent than mixed salts on a mg basis
- IR formulation (4-6h) requires more frequent dosing than extended-release alternatives; spansule extends to ~8h
- Available as transdermal patch (Xelstrym) — unique delivery system among stimulants, bypasses first-pass metabolism
- FDA-approved for ADHD and narcolepsy; efficacy comparable to mixed amphetamine salts at class level
Boxed Warning
ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION