Dexedrine XR: Complete Guide to This ADHD Medication

Dexedrine XR is an extended-release formulation of dextroamphetamine sulfate, a central nervous system stimulant primarily used to treat ADHD in patients 6 years and older.

If you're considering this medication or have been prescribed Dexedrine XR, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about its uses, dosing, costs, and how it compares to other ADHD treatments available in 2026.

What Exactly Is Dexedrine XR?

Brand Name and Generic Information

• Brand name: Dexedrine XR (also known as Dexedrine Spansule)
• Generic name: Dextroamphetamine sulfate extended-release
• Drug class: Amphetamine stimulant
• Manufacturer: Catalent Pharma Solutions (for Amneal Pharmaceuticals Specialty Products division)

FDA Approval and Controlled Substance Status

Dexedrine XR is approved by the FDA and classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification indicates:

• High potential for abuse and dependence
• Accepted medical use with severe restrictions
• Requires special prescribing procedures (no refills, written prescriptions)
• Subject to DEA manufacturing quotas

The medication carries a black box warning – the FDA's strongest safety alert – highlighting the risks of abuse, dependence, and potential cardiovascular events.

What Is Dexedrine XR Used For?

FDA-Approved Uses

The primary FDA-approved indication for Dexedrine XR is:

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older

ADHD symptoms that Dexedrine XR helps manage include:

• Inattention (difficulty focusing, easily distracted, forgetful)
• Hyperactivity (restlessness, fidgeting, excessive talking)
• Impulsivity (interrupting others, difficulty waiting turns, hasty decisions)

Off-Label Uses

While not FDA-approved for these conditions, doctors sometimes prescribe Dexedrine XR off-label for:

• Narcolepsy – A sleep disorder causing excessive daytime sleepiness
• Treatment-resistant depression – As an add-on to antidepressants in specific cases

Off-label use should only be considered under careful medical supervision and when other approved treatments have been inadequate.

How Is Dexedrine XR Taken?

Available Dosage Forms

Dexedrine XR comes as extended-release capsules (also called Spansule technology) in three strengths:

• 5mg extended-release capsules
• 10mg extended-release capsules
• 15mg extended-release capsules

How to Take It

• Timing: Once daily in the morning, typically before 10 AM
• With or without food: Can be taken either way, though consistency is recommended
• Swallow whole: Do not crush, chew, or open the capsules
• Extended-release action: Provides symptom control for up to 8-10 hours

Typical Dosage Range

• Starting dose: 5mg once daily in the morning
• Dose adjustments: May be increased by 5mg increments weekly based on response and tolerability
• Maximum typical dose: 40mg daily (though some patients may require higher doses under close supervision)
• Individualization: Dosing is highly individualized based on patient response and side effects

Your doctor will start with the lowest effective dose and adjust gradually to find the right balance of symptom control and manageable side effects.

Who Should Not Take Dexedrine XR?

Dexedrine XR is not appropriate for everyone. You should not take this medication if you have:

• Known hypersensitivity to amphetamines or any ingredients
• Current or recent MAOI use (within 14 days) – risk of hypertensive crisis
• Advanced arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• Symptomatic cardiovascular disease
• Moderate to severe hypertension
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
• Glaucoma (increased eye pressure)
• Agitated states or severe anxiety
• History of drug abuse or addiction

Special Precautions

Use extra caution if you have:

• Heart problems or family history of sudden cardiac death
• High blood pressure
• Mental health conditions (bipolar disorder, depression, psychosis)
• Seizure disorders
• Circulation problems
• Liver or kidney problems

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Dexedrine XR is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing baby. The medication can pass into breast milk, so breastfeeding mothers should discuss alternatives with their healthcare provider.

How Much Does Dexedrine XR Cost?

Brand Name Pricing

Cash prices for Dexedrine XR vary significantly by pharmacy and location:

• Price range: $19.52 to $685.03 for a 30-day supply
• Factors affecting cost: Dosage strength, pharmacy location, regional pricing differences
• Average cost: Typically $200-400 per month without insurance

Generic Options

Generic dextroamphetamine extended-release is available and significantly less expensive:

• Generic cost: Starting around $31.98 with discount cards
• Savings potential: Often 70-90% less than brand name
• Same active ingredient: Bioequivalent to brand name Dexedrine XR

Insurance Coverage

Most insurance plans cover Dexedrine XR, but may require:

• Prior authorization – Insurance approval before covering the medication
• Step therapy – Trying other ADHD medications first
• Preferred generic first – May require generic trial before covering brand name

Your copay with insurance typically ranges from $10-50 per month, depending on your plan's formulary placement.

Savings Programs

• Manufacturer programs: Limited savings programs available through Amneal Pharmaceuticals
• Patient assistance programs: Available for qualifying low-income patients
• Discount cards: GoodRx, SingleCare, and others can reduce generic costs significantly

Current Availability and Shortage Status

As of 2026, Dexedrine XR is affected by the ongoing ADHD stimulant shortage:

• Limited availability at many pharmacies
• Supply fluctuates based on DEA manufacturing quotas
• Regional variations in stock levels
• Generic versions may be more available than brand name

If you're having trouble finding Dexedrine XR, tools like Medfinder can help locate pharmacies with stock in your area.

How Does Dexedrine XR Compare to Other ADHD Medications?

Similar Medications

• Adderall XR – Contains mixed amphetamine salts (25% levoamphetamine, 75% dextroamphetamine)
• Vyvanse – Contains lisdexamfetamine, a prodrug that converts to dextroamphetamine
• Concerta – Extended-release methylphenidate (different mechanism)
• Evekeo XR – Contains both dextro- and levoamphetamine in equal amounts

Key Differences

Dexedrine XR is unique because:

• Pure dextroamphetamine – Contains only the more active isomer
• Fewer side effects for some patients compared to mixed amphetamine salts
• 8-10 hour duration – Shorter than some alternatives like Vyvanse
• Less availability during current shortages compared to some alternatives

What to Expect When Starting Dexedrine XR

First Few Weeks

• Symptom improvement typically begins within 30-60 minutes
• Side effects are most common initially (appetite loss, sleep problems)
• Dose adjustments may be needed based on response and tolerance
• Regular monitoring by your healthcare provider

Long-Term Use

• Continued effectiveness with proper dosing and monitoring
• Regular check-ups to monitor growth (in children), cardiovascular health, and mental state
• Possible tolerance requiring dose adjustments over time
• "Drug holidays" may be recommended to reassess need

Final Thoughts

Dexedrine XR is an effective treatment option for ADHD that offers several advantages, including pure dextroamphetamine content and extended-release convenience. However, like all stimulant medications, it requires careful medical supervision and carries risks that must be weighed against benefits.

The current shortage situation makes finding this medication challenging, but working with your healthcare provider to explore all options – including generics and alternatives – can help ensure you have access to effective ADHD treatment.

If you're prescribed Dexedrine XR, use Medfinder to locate pharmacies with your medication in stock, and work closely with your healthcare team to optimize your treatment plan.