Alternatives to Dexedrine

There are several alternatives to Dexedrine that may be used for treating ADHD. These alternatives may include lifestyle changes, other stimulant medications, and non-stimulant medications. Lifestyle changes that may be used with or in place of Dexedrine include different types of therapy. Stimulants, such as Adderall and Focalin, are effective alternatives to Dexedrine, but they are also controlled substances. Strattera is the only non-stimulant medication approved for treating ADHD, but there are other non-stimulant medications that can be used "off-label" to treat the condition.

 

Alternatives to Dexedrine: An Overview

Dexedrine® (dextroamphetamine sulfate) is a prescription medication used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Dexedrine is part of a group of ADHD medications called stimulants.
 
Although Dexedrine has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating ADHD in adults, healthcare providers may prescribe it "off-label" for adults with ADHD.
 
For most children, Dexedrine is effective in treating their ADHD symptoms and most children tolerate it well. However, as with all medicines, side effects can occur, or the medicine may not adequately control ADHD in some people. Fortunately, there are several alternatives to Dexedrine for ADHD treatment.
 
Some of these Dexedrine alternatives include:
 
  • Lifestyle changes, including therapy
  • Other stimulant ADHD medications
  • Non-stimulant ADHD medication.
     
(Click Narcolepsy Treatment for information about alternatives to Dexedrine for the treatment of narcolepsy.)
 
(Alternatives to Dexedrine Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;