What is the difference between amphetamine and dextroamphetamine?

Dextroamphetamine is a specific compound within the amphetamine group. Although the effects of amphetamines and dextroamphetamine are similar, the latter has a milder effect. Because of this, dextroamphetamine is available as a prescription medication for ADHD symptoms. However, this medication is only available with a psychiatrist’s prescription. Amphetamines in general, including dextroamphetamine without a doctor’s prescription, are illegal in the Netherlands.

Amphetamine is a collective term for multiple compounds with stimulating and focus-enhancing effects. Speed is perhaps the most well-known amphetamine. Other substances in the amphetamine group include dextroamphetamine and methamphetamine. The latter is known under the street name crystal meth. Amphetamines are usually purchased in powder form, which can be snorted or taken in a capsule. In some cases, amphetamines are also available in pill form.

The effects of amphetamines

Amphetamines produce the following effects:

·         Increased energy

·         Decreased appetite

·         Reduced pain

·         Elevated mood

·         Increased self-confidence

·         Sharper focus

·         More initiative

However, amphetamines also come with several disadvantages, which is why these substances are classified under the Opium Act, making amphetamine illegal in the Netherlands. This is due to physical and psychological side effects such as dizziness, agitation, overheating, heart palpitations, muscle cramps, stomach and headaches, unusual itching, anxiety, paranoia, and aggression.

Dextroamphetamine is the right-handed isomer of amphetamine. It can only be prescribed by psychiatrists and is better known under the brand names Amfexa or Tentin. This medication is often used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 but is also prescribed to adults with the same condition. However, it is prescribed less frequently for adults, as they experience more side effects from dextroamphetamine. The medication does not cure ADHD but helps suppress its symptoms. Dextroamphetamine is also commonly used as a party drug due to its focus-enhancing effects. It is available in pill form.

Lisdexamfetamine is another form of dextroamphetamine and is sold as a prodrug under the brand name Elvanse. This means that after ingestion, the body converts lisdexamfetamine into dextroamphetamine.

What are the effects of dextroamphetamine?

Dextroamphetamine works similarly to amphetamines like Speed. However, dextroamphetamine has a milder effect, which is why those who use it recreationally experience stimulating and energy-boosting effects. As a medication, dextroamphetamine helps people with ADHD improve focus, suppress impulses, and control behavior. Additionally, it is often used as a study aid, allowing students to study longer and improve their performance.

Dextroamphetamine has fewer side effects than other ADHD medications like Ritalin, but adults are more prone to side effects such as:

• Increased blood pressure
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Muscle tension
• Risk of addiction

The choice between amphetamine and dextroamphetamine depends on various factors, such as intended use, medical history, and individual reactions to the substances. Dextroamphetamine is commonly prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy. It is a specific variant of amphetamine and is generally considered milder and more targeted, with fewer side effects. Amphetamines are primarily used recreationally and are therefore illegal in the Netherlands. Dextroamphetamine remains available by prescription for ADHD symptoms.