Amphetamine vs. Dextroamphetamine — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 13, 2024
Amphetamine stimulates the central nervous system by increasing neurotransmitter activity, while dextroamphetamine, a more potent derivative, specifically heightens dopamine and norepinephrine.
Difference Between Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Amphetamine is a broad category of stimulants that affect the central nervous system, enhancing alertness and reducing fatigue. On the other hand, dextroamphetamine is a specific form of amphetamine that acts more strongly on the neurotransmitter dopamine, leading to more pronounced effects on concentration and focus.
Amphetamine formulations typically include a mix of different stereoisomers, including both the left-handed (levo) and right-handed (dextro) forms of the molecule, which contribute to their overall effect profile. Whereas dextroamphetamine consists solely of the right-handed molecule, believed to be more effective in targeting the brain's reward and motivation centers.
Amphetamine is commonly used in medications like Adderall, which combines it with other substances to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. On the other hand, dextroamphetamine is found in purer forms such as Dexedrine, which is used for similar purposes but may be preferred when a more focused stimulant effect is desired.
Amphetamine can lead to a range of side effects, from appetite suppression to cardiovascular issues, depending on the dosage and frequency of use. Whereas dextroamphetamine tends to have a higher risk of psychological dependency and abuse due to its potent effect on dopamine release.
Comparison Chart
Chemical Structure
Mixture of levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine
Pure dextroamphetamine
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Primary Effects
Increases both dopamine and norepinephrine
Strongly increases dopamine
Medical Uses
ADHD, narcolepsy, obesity
ADHD, narcolepsy
Side Effects
Appetite suppression, insomnia, heart issues
Increased risk of dependency, heart issues
Potential for Abuse
Moderate
High
Compare with Definitions
Amphetamine
Regulated as a controlled substance in many countries.
Amphetamine is classified under Schedule II in the United States.
Dextroamphetamine
A potent form of amphetamine specifically targeting dopamine.
Dextroamphetamine is prescribed primarily for its effectiveness in improving concentration.
Amphetamine
Known for increasing wakefulness and focus.
Amphetamine is often used by students to enhance their studying capabilities.
Dextroamphetamine
More likely to be abused due to its strong effects.
Due to its high potency, dextroamphetamine has a higher risk of abuse.
Amphetamine
Potentially leads to dependence and abuse.
The clinic monitors amphetamine prescriptions closely due to their abuse potential.
Dextroamphetamine
Used in purer form compared to other amphetamines.
Dexedrine, which contains dextroamphetamine, is known for its high efficacy.
Amphetamine
A synthetic stimulant used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy.
She was prescribed amphetamine to help manage her attention deficit disorder.
Dextroamphetamine
Subject to strict regulations worldwide.
Dextroamphetamine is tightly controlled to prevent its misuse.
Amphetamine
Can suppress appetite, making it a tool for weight loss.
His doctor warned him about the appetite suppression effects of amphetamine.
Dextroamphetamine
Also treats narcolepsy by helping to regulate sleep cycles.
He uses dextroamphetamine to manage his narcolepsy symptoms.
Amphetamine
Amphetamine (contracted from alpha-methylphenethylamine) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that is used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. Amphetamine was discovered in 1887 and exists as two enantiomers: levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine.
Dextroamphetamine
Dextroamphetamine (D-AMP) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant and an amphetamine enantiomer that is prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It is also used as an athletic performance and cognitive enhancer, and recreationally as an aphrodisiac and euphoriant.
Amphetamine
A synthetic compound, C9H13N, that occurs as a racemic mixture of two stereoisomers or as one of its stereoisomers (especially dextroamphetamine), derivatives (such as methamphetamine), or salts. Amphetamine acts as a central nervous system stimulant, and various formulations are used in the medical treatment of certain conditions (such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and illegally as stimulants.
Dextroamphetamine
A drug, C9H13N, that is the dextrorotatory isomer of amphetamine and is used in the form of its sulfate salt as a central nervous system stimulant to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy. It is used illegally as a stimulant.
Amphetamine
The racemic freebase of 1-phenylpropan-2-amine; an equal parts mixture of levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine in their pure amine forms.
Dextroamphetamine
(pharmaceutical drug) One of the stereoisomers of amphetamine, with the chemical formula C9H13N, that is used to stimulate the central nervous system.
Amphetamine
(informal) Any mixture of the two amphetamine enantiomers, dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine.
Amphetamine
Referring to a substituted amphetamine; a member of the amphetamine class of chemicals.
Amphetamine
A potent central nervous system stimulant of the phenethylamine chemical class that is used to treat ADHD, narcolepsy, and obesity.
Amphetamine
A central nervous system stimulant that increases energy and decreases appetite; used to treat narcolepsy and some forms of depression
Common Curiosities
Are there differences in side effects between amphetamine and dextroamphetamine?
Yes, while both can cause cardiovascular and appetite-related side effects, dextroamphetamine has a higher risk of psychological effects due to its potent nature.
What are the main uses of amphetamine?
Amphetamine is used to treat ADHD, narcolepsy, and sometimes obesity.
Which is more potent, amphetamine or dextroamphetamine?
Dextroamphetamine is considered more potent due to its direct action on the dopamine system.
Can amphetamine and dextroamphetamine be used interchangeably?
While they are both stimulants, they are not always interchangeable due to differences in potency and effects.
How does dextroamphetamine differ from amphetamine in its mechanism?
Dextroamphetamine specifically targets the dopamine system, enhancing focus and alertness more significantly.
Can both amphetamine and dextroamphetamine lead to dependency?
Yes, both can lead to physical and psychological dependency, with dextroamphetamine having a higher risk.
What are the legal classifications of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine?
Both are typically classified as Schedule II drugs in the U.S., indicating a high potential for abuse but with accepted medical uses.
What regulatory measures are in place for dextroamphetamine?
Dextroamphetamine is heavily regulated with strict prescription guidelines to prevent abuse.
What are the risks of long-term use of dextroamphetamine?
Long-term use can lead to dependency, tolerance, and potentially severe psychological or cardiovascular issues.
What are common side effects of amphetamines?
Common side effects include insomnia, appetite suppression, and jitteriness.
Why might a doctor prescribe dextroamphetamine over amphetamine?
A doctor might prefer dextroamphetamine for patients who need a stronger focus and attention boost, especially in cases of severe ADHD.
How do doctors decide on prescribing amphetamine vs. dextroamphetamine?
Doctors consider the severity of the condition, patient history, and specific needs for focus and alertness when deciding between the two.
Is there a preferred amphetamine formulation for treating obesity?
Amphetamine formulations, due to their appetite-suppressing effects, are sometimes used off-label for obesity.
What is the societal impact of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine misuse?
Misuse can lead to widespread health issues, dependency problems, and substantial social and economic costs.
How do the effects of dextroamphetamine manifest differently than those of amphetamine?
Dextroamphetamine typically results in more focused and intense effects, particularly in terms of concentration and alertness.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
