Medications

Dexedrine

Dexedrine

Previously Found with Medfinder

Comprehensive medication guide to {drug} including estimated pricing, availability information, side effects, and how to find it in stock at your local pharmacy.

Estimated Insurance Pricing
$10–$50 copay for generic Dextroamphetamine; brand may require prior authorization and cost $50–$150.
Estimated Cash Pricing
$20–$120 for generic Dextroamphetamine with a discount card; brand Dexedrine Spansule can run $200–$685 without insurance.
Medfinder Findability Score
45
/100
Summarize this guide with AI:

Post Author

Peter Daggett

Last Updated

February 15, 2026

Dexedrine 2026 Availability, Prices, and Tips to Find

What Is Dexedrine?

Dexedrine (Dextroamphetamine sulfate) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant in the amphetamine class. It is FDA-approved for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Narcolepsy.

Dextroamphetamine is the dextro-isomer of amphetamine and is considered more potent per milligram than mixed amphetamine salts (Adderall). It is available as immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules (Dexedrine Spansule), an oral solution (ProCentra), and a transdermal patch (Xelstrym).

How does Dexedrine work?

Dexedrine works by increasing the release and blocking the reuptake of two key neurotransmitters: norepinephrine and dopamine. By raising the levels of these chemicals in the brain, Dexedrine improves focus, attention, and impulse control in patients with ADHD, and promotes wakefulness in patients with Narcolepsy.

As a sympathomimetic amine, it also stimulates the peripheral nervous system, which can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure — important considerations for prescribers and patients.

What doses are available for Dexedrine?

  • Dexedrine Spansule (extended-release capsules): 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg
  • Dextroamphetamine IR tablets (generic): 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg
  • Zenzedi (brand IR tablets): 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg
  • ProCentra (oral solution): 5 mg/5 mL
  • Xelstrym (transdermal patch): 4.5 mg, 9 mg, 13.5 mg, 18 mg

Typical dosing ranges from 5 mg to 60 mg per day, taken in divided doses (IR) or once daily (ER Spansule).

How hard is it to find Dexedrine in stock?

Dexedrine and generic Dextroamphetamine have been affected by the ongoing amphetamine shortage that began in October 2022. As a Schedule II controlled substance, supply is further constrained by DEA production quotas. Many patients report difficulty finding their specific dose or formulation in stock at local pharmacies.

The findability score of 45 out of 100 reflects frequent localized shortages across the U.S. While supply has improved for some formulations in early 2026, patients may still need to call multiple pharmacies or use tools like Medfinder to locate Dexedrine in stock near them.

The #1 Medication Locating Service

Find {drug} in-stock near you

Struggling to find {drug} in stock? We'll call the pharmacies, sit on hold, and find you one that can fill your prescription.

25K+
Trusted by 25,000+ Happy Patients

Who Can Prescribe Dexedrine?

Because Dexedrine is a Schedule II controlled substance, it must be prescribed by a licensed provider with DEA authorization. Common prescribing specialties include:

  • Psychiatrists — most common for adult ADHD management
  • Neurologists — especially for Narcolepsy
  • Primary Care / Family Medicine physicians
  • Pediatricians — for ADHD in children and adolescents
  • Sleep Medicine specialists

Telehealth prescribing of Dexedrine is available through some platforms, though DEA regulations for Schedule II prescriptions require compliance with state and federal rules. A new prescription is needed each month — no refills are allowed for Schedule II medications.

Is Dexedrine a controlled substance?

Yes. Dexedrine is classified as a Schedule II (CII) controlled substance by the DEA. This is the highest schedule for drugs with accepted medical use, indicating a high potential for abuse that may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.

Schedule II medications carry restrictions including: no refills (a new prescription each fill), limits on quantity dispensed, and requirements for written or electronic prescriptions in most states. The DEA also controls annual production quotas for amphetamine products, which has contributed to the ongoing shortage.

Common Side Effects of Dexedrine

  • Loss of appetite and weight loss
  • Dry mouth
  • Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
  • Nervousness and restlessness
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Stomach upset, nausea, or cramps
  • Irritability
  • Sweating
  • Unpleasant taste

Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include chest pain, shortness of breath, signs of circulation problems (numbness, color changes in fingers/toes), psychosis or hallucinations, seizures, and signs of serotonin syndrome (agitation, rapid heartbeat, fever, muscle twitching).

Boxed Warning: Amphetamines have a high potential for abuse and dependence. Misuse can cause sudden death and serious cardiovascular events. Use only as prescribed.

Alternative Medications to Dexedrine

If you're unable to find Dexedrine or it's not the right fit, your prescriber may consider these alternatives:

  • Adderall / Adderall XR (Mixed Amphetamine Salts) — contains both dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine; widely prescribed for ADHD
  • Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine) — a prodrug of Dextroamphetamine with smoother onset and lower abuse potential
  • Ritalin / Concerta (Methylphenidate) — a different stimulant class; often used as first-line ADHD treatment
  • Focalin / Focalin XR (Dexmethylphenidate) — the active isomer of Methylphenidate
  • Zenzedi — another brand of Dextroamphetamine IR, may be easier to find in some areas
  • Xelstrym — Dextroamphetamine transdermal patch, a newer delivery option

Always consult your prescriber before switching medications. You can use Medfinder to check availability of any alternative near you.

Drug Interactions with Dexedrine

Major interactions (avoid):

  • MAOIs (e.g., Phenelzine, Selegiline) — risk of hypertensive crisis; contraindicated within 14 days
  • Serotonergic drugs (SSRIs, SNRIs, Triptans, Tramadol, St. John's Wort) — risk of serotonin syndrome
  • CYP2D6 inhibitors (Paroxetine, Fluoxetine, Quinidine) — can increase Dextroamphetamine levels

Moderate interactions:

  • Blood pressure medications — Dexedrine may reduce their effectiveness
  • Alkalinizing agents (sodium bicarbonate, antacids) — may increase Dexedrine absorption
  • Acidifying agents (Vitamin C, fruit juices) — may decrease Dexedrine effectiveness
  • Haloperidol, Chlorpromazine — may reduce stimulant effects

Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you take.

Final Thoughts on Dexedrine

Dexedrine remains an effective and well-established treatment for ADHD and Narcolepsy, but the ongoing stimulant shortage has made it harder to find in stock. With a findability score of 45/100, patients should expect to encounter availability challenges — especially for specific doses and formulations.

Using tools like Medfinder can save hours of calling pharmacies. Consider discount cards from GoodRx or SingleCare to bring cash prices as low as $20 for generic Dextroamphetamine tablets. Talk to your prescriber about alternatives like Vyvanse, Adderall, or Zenzedi if your current formulation is consistently unavailable.

Learn more about {drug}

25,000+ have already found their meds with Medfinder.

Start your search today.
99% success rate
Fast-turnaround time
Never call another pharmacy