Adderall Vs. Desoxyn

Adderall and Desoxyn are central nervous system stimulant drugs used primarily to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Adderall is a brand name for a mixture of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine, while Desoxyn is a brand of medical methamphetamine hydrochloride.

Both stimulant medications have similar side effects and work in the brain in nearly the same way. But there are differences between them as well.

Similarities Between Adderall & Desoxyn

Adderall and Desoxyn treat ADHD by increasing the number of some neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) in the brain, such as norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine.

A person with ADHD has low levels of these neurotransmitters, so it isn’t stimulated enough. It seeks outside stimulation, which is distracting and disruptive to concentration.

Desoxyn and Adderall stimulate the brain so it doesn’t need to seek outside stimulation. The result is increased focus and less distraction.

Similar Side Effects

Common side effects of Desoxyn and Adderall may include:

• headaches
• dry mouth
• itching
• constipation
• decreased appetite
• weight loss
• insomnia

Serious Desoxyn and Adderall side effects may be:

• swelling of the face, eyes, tongue, or throat
• believing things that aren’t true
• hallucinations (visual or auditory)
• manic mood swings
• increased or high blood pressure
• blurry vision or vision changes
• blue or pale fingers or toes
• numbness, pain, burning, or tingling in hands or feet
• unexplained wounds on fingers or toes
• difficulty speaking or slow speech
• motor or verbal tics
• seizures

The risk of side effects increases if you abuse Adderall or Desoxyn.

High Potential For Abuse

Both drugs are classified as schedule II controlled substances by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). This classification means they have a high potential for abuse, which can easily lead to addiction and physical dependence.

Increased Energy & Weight Loss

Adderall and Desoxyn both give you increased energy and can interfere with sleep. Because of this, they’re sometimes used to treat narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes extreme drowsiness or attacks of sleep).

Both drugs also cause weight loss and may be used by individuals who struggle to lose weight.

Differences Between Adderall & Desoxyn

The main difference between Adderall and Desoxyn is their active ingredients. Because these prescription drugs are different, they can cause unique side effects and may be used for differing purposes.

Here are a few differences between Adderall and Desoxyn.

Unique Side Effects

While Desoxyn and Adderall share many of the same side effects, some adverse reactions are distinctive to one drug or the other.

Some side effects that are unique to or more common with Adderall are:

• diarrhea
• nausea
• painful menstrual cramps
• nervousness
• depression
• dizziness
• difficulty breathing
• trouble swallowing
• teeth grinding
• hoarseness
• rash or hives
• blistering or peeling skin
• weakness or numbness in a leg or arm

Many of these are severe side effects that are unlikely to occur with prescribed use.

Some of the side effects unique to or more common with Desoxyn are:

• restlessness
• upset stomach
• unpleasant taste
• extreme tiredness
• hostile or aggressive behavior
• unusual suspicion of others
• racing heart rate
• tremors

Adderall Abuse Vs. Desoxyn Abuse

Adderall is commonly called a “study drug.” Adolescents, college students, or young professionals may take it before an exam or presentation so they can focus, stay awake, and do a lot of work in a short period of time.

Most take Adderall pills orally, but some people crush them to snort or inject for a quicker and more intense effect. Some students only use Adderall before a big test, but others begin to rely on it for concentration and become addicted to it.

Other ADHD medications like methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) are used by this demographic as well, but methamphetamine (Desoxyn) isn’t commonly used for this purpose.

Methamphetamine is more frequently abused in crystal form (crystal meth) rather than the pill form of Desoxyn. It’s smoked or injected, has an intense effect, and is highly addictive. Crystal meth isn’t a study drug—it’s taken recreationally.

Approved Medical Uses

Both prescription medications are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for ADHD treatment. But Adderall is FDA-approved for narcolepsy, while Desoxyn is not. And Desoxyn is FDA-approved to treat obesity, while Adderall is not.

Some doctors prescribe Adderall for weight loss or Desoxyn for narcolepsy if other treatments haven’t been effective.

Off-label use should only be done under medical advice from a qualified doctor. Self-medicating by using Adderall to lose weight or Desoxyn for energy is dangerous.

Stimulant Abuse Treatment Options

If you’re using Adderall or Desoxyn without a prescription or are taking it in higher doses, more frequently, or for longer than prescribed, you’re abusing it. Drug abuse can quickly lead to addiction, which often leads to health issues, money problems, and broken relationships.

Addiction can take over your life. It’s never the wrong time to ask for help with substance abuse.

We offer personalized treatment programs that nurture your physical and mental health. Our specialists are always available to answer your questions and guide you toward recovery. Contact us today to learn more.