You sit down to write an email, and suddenly you’re reorganizing your desktop folders, checking texts, or watching cats befriend chickens on YouTube. And that’s a normal Tuesday.

With ADHD, it can feel impossible to stay on task. You’re always flipping between things to do (and avoiding the things you don’t want to do). It’s not easy finding management tools, but with talk therapy and potentially, medication, it can get easier. 

Dexedrine is one type of ADHD medication that we’ll dive into in this article. You’ll learn how it works, who can take it, side effects, and how it compares to other ADHD meds. We’ll also explain how ADHD Advisor can support adults 18+ with ADHD care — including where stimulants like Dexedrine are available, and what to expect with cost and access.

What is Dexedrine?

Stimulants are the most popular type of ADHD medication — and Dexedrine is one of the originals. It’s been FDA-approved in both children (ages 6+) and adults since 1976. 

Dexedrine is the brand name for the drug dextroamphetamine sulfate, an amphetamine stimulant, making it a Schedule II controlled substance. 

Like all stimulants, it has a quick effect and, if approved by your clinician, could be a good fit for issues related to impulsivity, distractability, and forgetfulness. That could look like walking into a room and not forgetting why, studying for the exam on a subject you hate for hours because you know it’s needed, or not interrupting your partner every time you get into an argument. 

How Dexedrine Works

Dexedrine increases dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain — the main neurochemicals impacting attention, focus, and impulse control (basically the parts that make starting and finishing tasks feel doable instead of exhausting).

• Dopamine: When you do something that triggers a dopamine response in your brain, you want to do it again (that’s why it’s called the “feel-good” neurochemical). It signals a reward, and then gives you motivation to do whatever brought you that reward again (it’s what makes social media or sugar so addictive). 
  
  • With ADHD, dopamine levels tend to be less active in areas responsible for focus and executive function, making it difficult to feel motivated to focus since there isn’t much reward associated with it. Dexedrine helps by increasing dopamine, making your brain think, “This task matters, pay attention now.”

• Norepinephrine: More like the brain’s alertness signal, it keeps you awake, focused, and ready to respond. 
  
  • Dexedrine keeps more norepinephrine available in the part of your brain that’s in charge of planning, prioritizing, and controlling impulses, making you less likely to get distracted or act on impulse. Meaning, you may not even notice classmates or colleagues chatting around you while you organize your calendar for the week and get to work as soon as you sit down. 

How Long Does It Take for Dexedrine to Work?

Dexedrine usually comes in an immediate-release (IR) form, so you can notice a difference within 30-60 minutes. It holds you over for the morning, but can wear off after about 4-6 hours. Some people take a second dose around lunchtime if they need to focus heavily all day long. 

If you don’t want to take two pills, Adderall XR or Vyvanse are extended-release stimulants designed to last 10-12 hours. Dexedrine is more like a short, focused energy boost. Some people love that flexibility since they can adjust timing and dose based on what their day looks like.

Who Can Take Dexedrine

Dexedrine is FDA-approved for children 6 years and older, as well as adults with ADHD. It’s also approved for narcolepsy. That said, ADHD Advisor only works with adults 18+. 

Like all stimulant medications, Dexedrine isn’t right for everyone. It takes careful consideration and research on your end to be sure it’s worth it and safe for you. It’s not recommended if you have certain health conditions, including:

• Glaucoma
• Hyperthyroidism
• Heart problems or high blood pressure
• Recent use of MAOIs (an antidepressant)
• Advanced arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• A personal or family history of substance misuse
• Anxiety, agitation, mania, or other mental health concerns

With its high risk of dependence, it’s important to seriously discuss any family history as well as any personal struggles with addiction (including cell phone use) with your clinician. Bring up any worries around side effects with them and look at all your medication options before deciding. 

Dosages and Administration

You’ll want to keep your clinician up to date with all your side effects and follow their dosing recommendations. The FDA’s recommended dosages for this immediate-release (IR) medication are: 

• Children and adolescents 6-18: 
  
  • Starting dose: 5 mg once or twice daily
  • Average dose: 20-30mg/day (divided into 2-3 doses)
  • Upper dose: 40 mg/day in divided doses, increasing by 5 mg weekly

• Adults 18+: 
  
  • Starting dose: 5-10 mg once or twice daily
  • Average dose: 20-40 mg/day, split into morning and midday
  • Upper dose: 40 mg/day, increasing by 5-10 mg weekly

Side Effects and Risks

Stimulants like Dexedrine can come with both mild and severe risks and consequences. For example, all stimulants have a boxed warning for dependence, abuse, overdose, and even death. 

Here’s what to know about Dexedrine’s side effects before starting: 

Common Side Effects

If any of these become more severe or don’t go away, let your doctor know: 

• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Weight loss
• Stomach upset
• Sleep difficulties 
• Unpleasant taste
• Fast or irregular heartbeats
• Changes in sex drive or ability

Serious Side Effects

If you experience any of these, call your doctor immediately:

• Dizziness
• Seizures
• Agitation
• Mood changes
• Excessive tiredness
• Slow or difficult speech
• Hallucinations or paranoia 
• Abnormal movements, tics, vision changes
• Skin changes, hives, unexplained wounds on fingers or toes

If you notice any serious side effects, report them on the FDA MedWatch page. 

Dexedrine vs. Other ADHD Medications

Not all stimulants (or ADHD meds in general) work the same. There’s usually a unique combination of chemicals in each one, leading to different side effects and durations. Here’s how Dexedrine compares to some of the most popular ADHD meds: 

• Dexedrine vs. Adderall: Adderall is a mix of four different amphetamine salts, while Dexedrine is pure dextroamphetamine. Some people find Dexedrine gives a “cleaner” focus, while Adderall feels more balanced — but can also come with more ups and downs. Adderall also comes in extended-release (XR) and can last 10-12 hours, while Dexedrine is IR only (about 4-6 hours). ‍
• Dexedrine vs. Vyvanse: Vyvanse is a prodrug, so it has to be metabolized in your body before it becomes active. That means it takes longer to kick in, but it also tends to last longer and has a lower risk of misuse. Dexedrine, on the other hand, is a direct stimulant. You’ll usually feel it faster, but it may not last as long.‍
• Dexedrine vs. Methylphenidates (Concerta, Ritalin): These meds can be split into two families: amphetamines (Dexedrine, Adderall, Vyvanse) vs. methylphenidates (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin). Both help with focus and impulse control, but people often respond better to one “family” over the other. For example, someone who feels jittery or anxious on Ritalin might find Dexedrine smoother — and vice versa.

ADHD Care with ADHD Advisor: Therapy, Non-Stimulants, and Stimulant Availability

Adults 18+ can get a diagnosis, therapy, and non-stimulant prescriptions nationwide with ADHD Advisor. Thanks to government telehealth rules, stimulants like Dexedrine can only be prescribed online in certain states (and at the discretion of your clinician). 

Getting started with it all might feel overwhelming, but we streamlined the process to make it as smooth as possible for you.  

Step-by-Step Process

Within a few steps, you can get an ADHD diagnosis and treatment plan. Here’s how to begin:

1. Enter your medical history with our ADHD intake form. 
2. Schedule and attend your telehealth evaluation with our licensed clinicians to get tested for ADHD or confirm your diagnosis (same-day appointments are often available). 
3. Discuss your personalized treatment plan with your clinician (including therapy, non-stimulants, or stimulants if appropriate). 
   
   • If eligible and available in your state, ADHD Advisor can offer Dexedrine prescriptions.
4. Get started with talk therapy and schedule follow-ups regarding your treatment. Always report any side effects to your clinician. 

State Availability Examples

Controlled substances like stimulants have to follow strict telehealth governmental protocols. At ADHD Advisor, we offer online stimulant prescriptions in Texas and online ADHD prescriptions in Florida. 

Other states are also eligible, like Washington, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Check your state-specific page on ADHD Advisor to see if online stimulant prescriptions are available in your area.  

Access, Cost, and Insurance

 One of the first questions people usually ask is: “How much is this going to cost me?”

The good news is that Dexedrine is available as generic dextroamphetamine sulfate, which is usually less expensive than the brand-name version.

• With insurance: Depending on your plan, you may just owe a small copay — but your doctor might have to confirm medical necessity before coverage kicks in.‍
• Without insurance: Generic versions can still be pricey, but they’re generally cheaper than brand-name ADHD meds. Prices can range widely, so using pharmacy discount programs or checking different pharmacies may help.

Another thing to know: stimulants like Dexedrine sometimes run into shortages. If that happens, your provider might suggest a different dose, formulation, or another stimulant to bridge the gap.

At ADHD Advisor, we can’t bill insurance directly, but we do provide a superbill you can submit to your insurer for possible reimbursement. We also have to follow strict governmental telehealth guidelines, making online stimulant prescriptions available in select states only (like Texas or Florida). Check your state-specific page on ADHD Advisor. 

2025 Regulatory and Label Updates

The FDA requires all stimulants to have boxed label warnings for specific risks and side effects. In 2025, an expanded label was introduced specifically for children under 6 due to weight and growth issues associated with stimulants. 

Stimulants suppress appetites. Meals can be skipped without realizing it, and eating less overall is common. Since children need a steady supply of nutrients, eating less can seriously stunt childhood development. In fact, weight loss is one of the main side effects in both children and adults. 

At ADHD Advisor, we only work with adults 18+. This warning applies more so to parents curious about medication for their child. Even though stimulants aren’t FDA-approved for children under 6, some health care professionals may prescribe them “off-label” to treat ADHD. It’s important to be aware of these risks before making a decision. 

Finally, there is also the warning of the high risk of dependency and abuse with stimulants. You can develop a tolerance and feel a need to take larger amounts. This can lead to unusual changes in behavior and other side effects. 

Always tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family has a history of suicidal thoughts or alcohol or drug abuse, including overusing prescription medications, so they can assess your risk. 

FAQs

Is Dexedrine addictive?
Yes. It’s a stimulant classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. It carries the FDA risk of addiction and abuse warning. 

‍How long does Dexedrine last? 
It lasts about 4 to 6 hours since it’s not an extended-release (XR) medication. 

‍Can I get Dexedrine from ADHD Advisor?
Yes, providing you’re 18+, in a state that allows stimulant prescriptions online, and your clinician deems it appropriate. 

What if I miss a dose? 
Never double up. Take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to your next scheduled time. Space your doses 4 to 6 hours apart, and don’t take it in the evening since it can lead to sleep difficulties. 

‍Is Dexedrine the same as Adderall?
No. Adderall is a mix of amphetamine salts; Dexedrine is pure dextroamphetamine.