Adderall Generic: Cost-Effective ADHD Treatment Option
Adderall is the brand name for the prescription medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults and children. Adderall generic vs brand both contain a combination of amphetamines and dextroamphetamine salts. It is classified as a central nervous system stimulant, which enhances focus, energy levels, and attention span in people living with ADHD. Adderall generic name is amphetamine/dextroamphetamine. Adderall is also used for managing the symptoms of narcolepsy in adults. Although Adderall was initially approved for ADHD, it is used for several medical conditions apart from that.
Most people are not aware of the Adderall generic brand that is widely found in pharmacies across the States. Do you know that Adderall generic cost is often cheaper than the brand name? Learn more about Adderall’s generic availability, cost, and dosage in comparison to Adderall, as well as the brand name. Get started with Therapy Fleet to connect with our mental healthcare professionals to get prescribed Adderall online.
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What is Adderall Generic Name?
Adderall generic is found in pharmacies under the names amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Many Adderall generic manufacturers, including Sandoz, Zydus Pharma, and Aurolife, produce generics for Adderall. The brand name Adderall has been facing drug shortages in the States since October 2022, which is why many healthcare professionals now prescribe the generic drug for Adderall.
Difference Between Adderall and Generic
Generic to Adderall is similar to the brand name of Adderall. Generally speaking, generic medicine for Adderall is more readily available than the brand name because of the generic versions’ price and the brand name’s shortage.
In terms of appearance, Adderall generic drugs vary from one another since different pharmaceutical companies are developing the drug, and the dosages vary, too. For instance, the blue Adderall pill and round blue Adderall differ in strength. Despite these differences, all Adderall generic drugs offer the same therapeutic effects as the brand name.
Dosage Types for Adderall Vs. Adderall Generic
Adderall, both generic and brand, is available in immediate-release tablets (Adderall IR) and extended-release capsules (Adderall XR). Both have the same prescribed dosages: Adderall IR is taken twice or thrice daily, whereas Adderall XR is taken just once a day.
The standard Adderall dosage for adults and children is different. However, generally, doctors can prescribe a maximum of 40 mg and an Adderall XR dosage of 40 mg for adults. At times, Adderall does not work optimally because of factors like low dosage. Some signs your Adderall dose is too low are inattention and impulsivity.
Note– discuss your symptoms with the doctor. If Adderall is not working for you, they may prescribe you the best alternatives to Adderall.
Standard Dosage for Both Adderall Generic & Brand Name
Adderall IR | Adderall XR |
The initial dose is 5mg, once or twice, incremented at 5 mg weekly intervals until optimal response is achieved | The initial dose is 20mg, once/day, ideally in the morning. The dosage to be adjusted by 5mg to 10mg a weekly basis |
Maximum dose in children 30mg/day | Maximum dose in children 30 mg/day |
Maximum dose in adults 40mg/day | Maximum dose in adults 40 mg/day |
Side Effects of Adderall (Both Adderall Generic and Adderall Brand Name)
Adderall is a highly effective drug for managing the symptoms of ADHD, but it comes with side effects. The side effects of both brand names Adderall and Adderall generic, are the same.
Some common side effects are listed below;
- Palpitations
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetite
- Loss of weight
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Depression
Note: Although the generic and brand names of Adderall have the same active ingredient and the same dosage, their appearance and costs may vary. Therefore, if you plan to switch to and from brand to Adderall generic, consult with your doctor first. They know which is the best option for you.
Cost of Adderall Generic & Adderall Brand Name
Adderall generic price depends on factors like quantity, dosage, and insurance coverage. Let’s say your healthcare provider prescribed you Adderall for 30 days; if you decide to buy Adderall generic brands, you will save more money. However, the final cost depends on where you purchase your supply and whether your insurance covers the cost.
Unlike the brand name, Adderall generic is covered by private insurance plans. If you are not insured, different saving programs are available, like Adderall coupons and Adderall generic coupons.
How Much is Adderall Generic Without Insurance?
Different manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies offer different prices for amphetamine salt. However, the final cost depends on factors like Adderall dosage and Adderall XR dosage. The standard Adderall dosage is different for everyone, so the cost of Adderall generic for you might be different for someone else with the same diagnosis.
Off-Label Uses of Adderall
As mentioned earlier, Adderall was initially prescribed for ADHD in 1969, but over the years, Adderall generic and brand name proved to be beneficial for several other health conditions, some of which are listed below;
1. Depression
Some research suggests that Adderall is helpful for depression. Although not the first-line treatment for depression, doctors recommend Adderall if the traditional supplements don’t work well or if depression is accompanied by tiredness and sleepiness. A study conducted showed Adderall in improving depressive symptoms. These people had treatment-resistant depression and more women than men. However, for depression, Adderall generic or brand name is typically prescribed along with another antidepressant.
2. Bipolar Disorder
People with bipolar disorder also having ADHD noticed a change in their symptoms with Adderall. However, it is not recommended by the doctors much, and extra precautions must be taken when prescribing Adderall to people with bipolar disorder as it may increase the risk of more intense depressive episodes/mania episodes.
3. Anxiety
Sometimes, Adderall (Adderall brand and Adderall generic) is used off-label to treat anxiety disorders. Although not approved for the same, Adderall does benefit specific individuals with anxiety. One study suggests that Adderall is beneficial in decreasing anxiety symptoms in children with ADHD and comorbid anxiety disorders. However, Adderall causes anxiety in the other half of the people, so before you decide to use Adderall, consult your medical condition with your doctor. There are other ADHD medications for people with anxiety.
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4. Weight Loss
Adderall is a stimulant that decreases appetite and aids in weight loss. Adderall weight loss is a common side effect in some people. For the same reason, many people use Adderall as a sleep loss pill, But doctors do not encourage this, as it carries a lot of health risks. Higher doses of Adderall lead to increased heart rate, irregular heartbeat, and high BP. Using Adderall generic or brand for more extended periods will lead to dependence and, eventually, Adderall abuse.
5. Cognitive Enhancement
Adderall enhances cognitive functions in people with ADHD. However, the results are not precise for people without ADHD. Some studies also suggest that Adderall offers marginal improvements only, while others believe that the benefits may be due to the placebo effect. However, Adderall, used as a cognitive enhancer, can lead to dependence in the long run.
How to Switch from Adderall to Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine?
Most of the time, a healthcare provider will prescribe generic Adderall to you. But if you are using the brand name Adderall and are interested in switching to the generic, it’s always better to consult with your prescribing doctor. Because both contain the same active ingredient and dosage, the switching process is not complicated.
Practical Tips for Switching
Even if your prescription mentions the brand Adderall, your pharmacist can interchange it with the generic Adderall because they contain the same active ingredient; however, this also depends on the state’s regulatory guidance.
Sometimes, your doctor will specifically recommend using the brand-name Adderall because, let’s say, you are not reacting well to the generic drug or for other health reasons; therefore, if you decide to switch, it’s always better to confirm with your prescribing doctor if it’s safe to do so.
When you switch medications, keep track of your symptoms, and in case of any serious side effects, contact a medical emergency. This will help the prescribing doctor understand how well the new medication is working, and therefore, they can make changes to the Adderall dosage accordingly.
The Bottom Line
Adderall generic is similar to the brand-name Adderall, with the same side effects, dosages, risks, and potential of abuse. In contrast, the benefits are the same, too. What varies is the cost. As a rule of thumb, Adderall generic brands of all drugs are cheaper than the brand names of the same.
So, if you decide to switch to and from Adderall generic to the brand, the process is very simple because the dosages are the same for both. Shifting is useful as there are no Adderall generic shortages, unlike brand Adderall, and Adderall generic cost is less. However, for further guidance and questions about the switching process, consult with your healthcare provider.
Medical Disclaimer:
At TherapyFleet, we strive to enhance the quality of life for those dealing with mental health issues. Our licensed medical professionals meticulously research, edit, and review all content before publication. Nonetheless, this information should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical guidance, please consult your physician or reach out to TherapyFleet’s qualified staff.
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FAQs
1. What drug is closest to Adderall?
The closest drug to Adderall is amphetamine-dextroamphetamine, which is the generic Adderall. Vyvanse and its generic versions are also closest to Adderall.
2. Is it safe to work out on Adderall?
Working out on Adderall is considered safe, but still, it’s better to work out before taking your daily dosage of Adderall. Adderall is a CNS stimulant that increases heart rate and causes palpitations. Therefore, be cautious when working out with Adderall in your system, and stay away from cardio exercises. Always consult with your doctor before adding exercise to your daily regimen.
3. Why do people like Adderall?
Like the other stimulants, Adderall increases the levels of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that improves feelings of pleasure and attention. Thus, when people with ADHD take Adderall, they feel focused and calm.
4. Can I take Adderall and vitamin C together?
Taking Vitamin C and Adderall at the same time reduces the absorption of Adderall into the body, making it less effective—space out at least one hour between the two.
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