Desoxyn vs Adderall: What’s the Difference?

In today’s post, we compare and contrast two medications that are often prescribed to treat ADHD: Desoxyn vs. Adderall.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 6 million children and adolescents in the U.S. have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The CDC also reports that about 60% of these young people receive medication to help manage their symptoms.

What Are Desoxyn and Adderall?

Desoxyn and Adderall are brand names of prescription medications that are most commonly used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Here’s a quick look at some of the features of Desoxyn vs. Adderall:

What is Desoxyn?

Desoxyn contains methamphetamine (or meth). In addition to helping people who have ADHD, this medication is also sometimes prescribed to people who need medical help to lose large amounts of weight. Desoxyn is sold as 5 mg tablets that are taken orally. 

What is Adderall?

Adderall contains racemic amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. In addition to treating ADHD, it is also used to help people who have narcolepsy. The medication is available as tablets that range in dosage from 5mg to 30 mg. 

What are the Main Differences Between Desoxyn vs. Adderall?

The primary difference between Desoxyn vs. Adderall is that Desoxyn contains methamphetamine while Adderall contains multiple types of amphetamines. 

As noted in the brief descriptions above, another important difference between Desoxyn vs. Adderall is that Adderall tablets can be purchased in a wide range of dosage levels, while Desoxyn is available in only one amount (5 mg tablets). Since it can take some time to determine the ideal dosage level for each person, this makes Adderall more user-friendly in that respect.

Most sources identify Adderall as a safer and more effective medication for people who have ADHD. However, if a person’s ADHD symptoms have not responded to Adderall or other medications, Desoxyn can be a beneficial option.

Is Desoxyn or Adderall Addictive?

Though there are a few important distinctions between Desoxyn vs. Adderall, one characteristic that they share is that both of these drugs are addictive.

Remember: When a person takes Desoxyn or Adderall, they are ingesting either methamphetamine or amphetamine. As we will discuss in greater detail in the next section, these substances can expose a person to considerable harm, including the development of an addiction.

When someone becomes addicted to Desoxyn or Adderall, they will begin to lose control of their thoughts and actions. Powerful cravings and distressing withdrawal symptoms can keep them trapped in the downward spiral of compulsive substance abuse. 

In the absence of effective professional care, people who struggle with these types of substance use disorders may incur considerable physical, psychological, and social harm.

Dangers of Abusing These ADHD Drugs?

Addiction is just one of the many risks associated with the misuse of these ADHD drugs.

The specific dangers of abusing Desoxyn vs. Adderall can vary depending on several factors, including the person’s age, weight, and metabolism; which drug they have been abusing; how much they have been using; and if they are also engaging in other types of substance abuse. 

With these considerations in mind, Desoxyn or Adderall abuse can lead to the following negative outcomes:

• Irregular heart rate
• High blood pressure
• Heart attack
• Breathing problems
• Tics and tremors
• Vision problems
• Gastrointestinal distress
• Sexual dysfunction
• Kidney failure
• Disorientation
• Paranoia
• Psychosis
• Convulsions
• Coma
• Death

Can Desoxyn or Adderall Addiction Be Treated?

The good news about addictions to Desoxyn and Adderall is that these conditions can be treated. When someone receives personalized care that addresses the full scope of their needs, they can end their abuse of these substances and build a healthier life in recovery.

If you are looking for treatment for Desoxyn or Adderall, it is important to understand that there is no single “perfect” path to recovery. As you evaluate your options, focus on finding a provider whose services and general approach to treatment align with your specific needs, goals, and preferences.

One key point to consider is which levels of care are right for you. For example, at Phoenix Rising Recovery, we offer the following programs:

• Detoxification
• Residential treatment 
• Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
• Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
• Outpatient treatment

Depending on several factors, including which program you are enrolled in, your care for Desoxyn or Adderall addiction may include elements such as these:

• Individual, group, and family therapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Motivational enhancement therapy (MET)
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy
• Neurofeedback therapy
• Reality therapy
• Other therapies and support services

We also offer robust aftercare planning to ensure that you are connected with the resources that will support your continued progress after you have transitioned out of treatment with us.

Contact Phoenix Rising Recovery About Addiction Treatment in Palm Springs, CA

Our drug rehab centers in Palm Springs, California at Phoenix Rising Recovery offers customized care and comprehensive support to adults whose lives have been disrupted by addictions to Desoxyn, Adderall, and other prescription medications. Features of care at our addiction treatment center in Palm Springs, California, include multiple levels of care, optional gender-specific services, and specialized programming for young adults and first responders.

To learn more about how Phoenix Rising Recovery can help you or a loved one, or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact page or call us today.