Comprehensive medication guide to Dexedrine 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
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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).
Dexedrine works by increasing the release and blocking the reuptake of two key neurotransmitters: and . 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.
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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.
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) — solution
5 mg/5 mL
Xelstrym (transdermal patch) — patch
4.5 mg, 9 mg, 13.5 mg, 18 mg
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.
Because Dexedrine is a Schedule II controlled substance, it must be prescribed by a licensed provider with DEA authorization. Common prescribing specialties include:
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.
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.
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.
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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
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MAOIs
moderate(e.g., Phenelzine, Selegiline) — risk of hypertensive crisis; contraindicated within 14 days
Serotonergic drugs
moderate(SSRIs, SNRIs, Triptans, Tramadol, St. John's Wort) — risk of serotonin syndrome
CYP2D6 inhibitors
moderate(Paroxetine, Fluoxetine, Quinidine) — can increase Dextroamphetamine levels
Blood pressure medications
moderateDexedrine may reduce their effectiveness
Alkalinizing agents (sodium bicarbonate, antacids)
moderatemay increase Dexedrine absorption
Acidifying agents (Vitamin C, fruit juices)
moderatemay decrease Dexedrine effectiveness
Haloperidol, Chlorpromazine
moderatemay reduce stimulant effects
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.
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