Whether you’re researching as a first timer or have already tried a few ADHD meds, knowing the difference between your options might save you a lot of headache (literally). 

If you aren’t sure which one’s best for you, read on to learn the difference between two amphetamines: Desoxyn and Adderall. 

What You Need to Know About Desoxyn and Adderall

Both Desoxyn and Adderall are stimulants approved for ADHD in adults and children 6 and up. They act on dopamine (which makes tasks feel rewarding) and norepinephrine (helps you pay attention), so your brain can actually stick to a task.

These medications are FDA-approved stimulants for ADHD in adults and children 6 and up. They’re both amphetamines, but their strength and formulations are different. 

Like most ADHD meds, they work on your dopamine and norepinephrine levels to help with symptom management. 

• Dopamine makes tasks feel more rewarding. That means you have more motivation to start a task, since you can feel more in tune with the reward of finishing it.‍
• Norepinephrine helps you pay attention and organize. You can switch between tasks without getting lost and focus on what’s most important (since you’re in line with its reward, too).

How Desoxyn Works

Desoxyn is made up of one ingredient, methamphetamine, making it a particularly strong stimulant. It works to dramatically increase dopamine and norepinephrine by releasing more of them and keeping them active longer in the brain. That’s why it can feel very effective at low doses — but also why it has a higher risk of overstimulation and side effects.

It also usually comes in immediate-release (IR) tablets, so its effects can hit you fast (but wear off sooner).

How Adderall Works

Adderall is a stimulant with a mixture of amphetamine salts. It works similarly to Desoxyn, but in a more moderated, blended way (thanks to the mix of amphetamine salts).

It comes in two forms: IR and extended release (XR). The XR comes out in two phases: a first release of medication that can hit strongly, and then a smaller one a few hours later. It’s usually used for people who need to focus all day long and want to avoid the “crash” that comes in the early afternoon when the IR wears off.

Adderall is usually the first ADHD medication prescribed because of its high efficacy rate. However, if it doesn’t have much of an impact, clinicians may prescribe something stronger, like Desoxyn. 

The Main Differences Between Desoxyn and Adderall

Here’s a breakdown of how the two differ: 

What the Research Says

Adderall is one of the most prescribed ADHD medications out there, so the research behind it is strong. It’s known to be effective at improving attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. 

For example, one study showed a 42% reduction in ADHD symptoms when compared to a placebo. Meta-analyses covering dozens of studies show that overall, amphetamines have a high efficacy rate. 

Desoxyn, on the other hand, isn’t as well-researched or prescribed. There aren’t many studies directly comparing it to Adderall, either. However, it’s an amphetamine which, in general, is proven to be effective for ADHD. The issue is that amphetamines come with a high risk of misuse, meaning that a prescription should be well thought out beforehand. 

Why Therapy is Important

Keep in mind that research and clinicians all agree that medication works best when combined with talk therapy. ADHD comes with plenty of challenges that impact mental health, including lowered self-esteem, work difficulties, emotional dysregulation, and plenty of relationship and communication difficulties. Therapy is proven to be highly effective for teaching coping skills, tools, and techniques to manage everything ADHD comes with

Side Effects to Expect

Every medication comes with side effects, but it’s hard to say exactly what you’ll feel until you try it. Here’s what’s most common:

Typical side effects people notice in the first weeks:

• Dry mouth
• Headaches
• Upset stomach
• Trouble sleeping
• Decreased appetite
• Jitteriness or mild anxiety

Serious side effects (less common but important):

• Circulation issues or chest pain
• Rapid heart rate, high blood pressure
• Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations

Important Safety Information and The Risk of Misuse

Both Desoxyn and Adderall have a high potential for misuse. That doesn’t mean you will become addicted, but it does mean you should:

• Take it exactly as prescribed
• Never share your medication
• Store it safely

Let your doctor know about your full personal and family history before taking stimulants (this includes any history of substance misuse). Stimulants can also interact with other medications and aren’t for people with certain heart or mental health conditions. 

Comparing the Cost and Availability

There can be a big difference between different types and brands. Here’s what to expect: 

• Desoxyn is brand-name only, so expect a higher cost, usually several hundred dollars a month without insurance. Manufacturer assistance programs exist, but you’ll need to check eligibility.‍
• Adderall XR comes in both brand and generic versions, making it more affordable for most people. Insurance coverage is generally better for generics, and pharmacies often have discount programs.

Making the Decision: Which Medication Might Be Right for You?

Choosing a stimulant should always start with a conversation with a mental health professional. Their clinical insight helps match the medication to your needs while minimizing side effects and long-term risks.

Choosing between Desoxyn and Adderall isn’t about which is “better” - it’s about which fits your brain, schedule, and life. Ask yourself:

• Do I need steady, even focus all day, or is a targeted energy boost enough?
• How sensitive am I to side effects like appetite loss or jitteriness?
• What’s my insurance coverage or budget situation?
• Have I responded better to amphetamine-based vs methamphetamine/methylphenidate-based stimulants before?

Choose Adderall if you:

• Want fast results
• Don’t get anxiety on stimulants
• Need energy to stay focused and productive
• Need an IR and/or XR option for flexible days

Choose Desoxyn if you:

• Need something stronger
• Work closely with a clinician and have regular check-ins
• Don’t have a history of substance misuse and can take it exactly as prescribed
• Have tried other stimulants, and they didn’t help (bad side effects, no results, etc.)
  

Pro tip: Track your daily patterns — energy, focus, mood. Bring these notes to your doctor. It turns a vague “I feel off” into actionable data that helps find the right medication faster.

How ADHD Advisor Can Help You Get Started

ADHD treatment shouldn’t feel like guesswork. With ADHD Advisor:

• You can get same-day virtual assessments from licensed clinicians.
• If appropriate, they can prescribe Desoxyn or Adderall and guide ongoing medication management.
  
  • Stimulants are available in certain states.
• They provide therapy to help you structure your day, manage side effects, and track focus so you know if the medication is working for you.
  

Start your free online ADHD screening and get clarity on which medication — and strategies — fit your life.

FAQs

What’s the difference between Desoxyn and Adderall?

Desoxyn is a methamphetamine-based stimulant, while Adderall is a mix of amphetamine salts. Both help with focus and impulse control, but Desoxyn is stronger and usually prescribed only when Adderall doesn’t work.

Is Desoxyn stronger than Adderall?

Yes — Desoxyn is more potent milligram-for-milligram, so it’s usually used when other stimulants haven’t worked. That also means side effects can feel more noticeable.

Which is more addictive, Desoxyn or Adderall?

Both are stimulants with potential for misuse, but Desoxyn carries a higher risk due to its potency and rarity. Careful medical supervision is key for either medication.

What are the side effects of Desoxyn compared to Adderall?

Common side effects overlap: decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, jitteriness, increased heart rate. Desoxyn may hit harder and cause stronger insomnia or appetite suppression. Adderall can feel more “peaky” for some, while Desoxyn can feel more intense overall.

How long does Desoxyn last compared to Adderall?

Desoxyn XR lasts around 6-8 hours for most people (IR shorter), while Adderall XR usually lasts 10-12 hours. Timing your day and tasks can help manage when focus peaks and dips.