What Is dextroamphetamine xr?

Dextroamphetamine xr (extended-release) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in patients aged 6 and older, as well as narcolepsy. Originally sold under the brand name Dexedrine Spansule (now discontinued), dextroamphetamine xr is available as a generic extended-release capsule from manufacturers including Teva, Mallinckrodt, and Alvogen. The extended-release capsule releases medication gradually throughout the day, providing 8–12 hours of symptom control with a single morning dose.

How does dextroamphetamine xr work?

Dextroamphetamine xr works by increasing the levels of two key neurotransmitters in the brain: dopamine and norepinephrine. It blocks the reuptake of these chemicals back into nerve cells and promotes their release into the spaces between neurons. This increased catecholamine activity in the brain helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control in patients with ADHD and reduces excessive daytime sleepiness in narcolepsy. The extended-release Spansule formulation uses a bead system to deliver medication in two phases — an initial dose upon ingestion and a delayed release several hours later.

What doses are available for dextroamphetamine xr?

• 5 mg extended-release capsule (Spansule)
• 10 mg extended-release capsule (Spansule)
• 15 mg extended-release capsule (Spansule)

Your doctor will typically start you at 5–10 mg once daily and increase the dose by 5–10 mg per week as needed, up to a maximum of about 40 mg per day. Note: immediate-release dextroamphetamine tablets (Zenzedi, generic) are available in a wider range of strengths (2.5 mg to 30 mg) but are a different formulation.

How hard is it to find dextroamphetamine xr in stock?

Dextroamphetamine xr has a findability score of 35 out of 100, meaning it is frequently difficult to find in stock. The amphetamine shortage that began in October 2022 continues into 2026, with multiple manufacturers reporting back orders on extended-release capsule strengths — particularly 10 mg and 15 mg. Contributing factors include DEA production quotas, a surge in ADHD diagnoses during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, and limited manufacturing capacity. Patients often need to call multiple pharmacies to locate their prescribed strength. Medfinder can help you find dextroamphetamine xr in stock near you without the hassle of calling around.

Who Can Prescribe dextroamphetamine xr?

Because dextroamphetamine xr is a Schedule II controlled substance, it must be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider with prescriptive authority. Common prescribers include:

• Psychiatrists — most common prescribers for ADHD and stimulant medications
• Primary care physicians and family medicine doctors — frequently manage ADHD in adults and children
• Pediatricians — prescribe for children and adolescents with ADHD
• Neurologists — may prescribe for narcolepsy or complex ADHD cases
• Sleep medicine specialists — prescribe for narcolepsy

Telehealth providers can also prescribe dextroamphetamine xr, though DEA regulations for prescribing Schedule II substances via telehealth have tightened since 2023. Some telehealth ADHD platforms like Done and Cerebral may prescribe stimulants after an initial evaluation.

Is dextroamphetamine xr a controlled substance?

Yes. Dextroamphetamine xr is classified as a Schedule II (CII) controlled substance by the DEA. This is the most restrictive category for drugs with accepted medical use. Schedule II classification means:

• No refills — a new prescription is required each time
• Prescriptions are typically limited to a 30-day supply
• In most states, the prescription cannot be called in — it must be an electronic or written prescription
• DEA production quotas limit the total amount that can be manufactured each year, which is one factor contributing to the current shortage

The boxed warning on dextroamphetamine xr states that it has a high potential for abuse and dependence. Misuse of amphetamines may cause sudden death and serious cardiovascular adverse events.

Common Side Effects of dextroamphetamine xr

The most frequently reported side effects of dextroamphetamine xr include:

• Decreased appetite — the most common side effect; may lead to weight loss
• Insomnia — take the medication in the morning to minimize sleep disruption
• Dry mouth
• Weight loss
• Headache
• Nervousness and irritability
• Stomach pain and nausea
• Dizziness

Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, new psychiatric symptoms (hallucinations, paranoia, mania), numbness or color changes in fingers and toes (Raynaud's phenomenon), and seizures. Contact your doctor if you experience increased blood pressure or heart rate.

Alternative Medications to dextroamphetamine xr

If you're unable to find dextroamphetamine xr in stock or need a different option, consider discussing these alternatives with your doctor:

• Adderall XR (mixed amphetamine salts XR) — contains both d-amphetamine and l-amphetamine; similar mechanism and duration of action
• Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) — a prodrug of dextroamphetamine with smoother onset, lower abuse potential, and FDA approval for both ADHD and binge eating disorder
• Mydayis (mixed amphetamine salts triple-bead) — triple-bead extended-release amphetamine lasting up to 16 hours
• Concerta or Ritalin LA (methylphenidate ER) — a different stimulant class that may be easier to find during the amphetamine shortage
• Dextroamphetamine immediate-release tablets (Zenzedi, generic) — the same active ingredient in a shorter-acting formulation that may be more readily available

Drug Interactions with dextroamphetamine xr

Dextroamphetamine xr has several important drug interactions to be aware of:

• MAO inhibitors (phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline) — contraindicated; risk of hypertensive crisis. Do not use within 14 days of an MAOI.
• SSRIs and SNRIs (sertraline, fluoxetine, venlafaxine) — increased risk of serotonin syndrome; symptoms include agitation, rapid heartbeat, high temperature, and muscle rigidity
• CYP2D6 inhibitors (paroxetine, fluoxetine, bupropion) — may increase amphetamine blood levels and side effects
• Urinary alkalinizing agents (sodium bicarbonate, antacids) — increase amphetamine effect by slowing excretion
• Urinary acidifying agents (vitamin C, cranberry juice) — decrease amphetamine effect by speeding excretion
• Blood pressure medications — dextroamphetamine may reduce their effectiveness

Always inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you take.

Final Thoughts on dextroamphetamine xr

Dextroamphetamine xr remains an effective and widely prescribed treatment for ADHD and narcolepsy, but the ongoing stimulant shortage makes finding it in stock a real challenge in 2026. With a findability score of just 35, patients frequently need to check multiple pharmacies to locate their medication. If you're struggling to find dextroamphetamine xr, Medfinder can search pharmacies near you in seconds. Consider asking your doctor about alternative formulations or medications if your usual strength is consistently unavailable. Use discount cards like GoodRx or SingleCare to save on cash prices — especially if your insurance requires burdensome prior authorization. Stay in touch with your prescriber and pharmacist, and plan ahead by requesting refills well before you run out.