Selecting the proper medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is crucial for managing the symptoms. Finding the right prescription depends on the individual’s symptoms, the severity of the disease, how well you tolerate the medicine, and some other factors, which we will discuss later.In this blog, we will be learning more about Focalin vs Adderall.
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Focalin Vs Adderall: What is the Difference
Focalin vs Adderall are central nervous stimulants. Focalin consists of the salt dexmethylphenidate, and Adderall contains amphetamine/dextroamphetamine. Focalin and Adderall are FDA-approved medications used for treating or managing the symptoms of ADHD. Both increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, leading to enhanced wakefulness, impulse control, and attention to detail.
Although at first, both Focalin vs Adderall might look similar, if you read further, you will realize they are not. These medications differ in the following ways;
- It’s active ingredient
- Treating medical conditions,
- It’s side-effects and much more.
For example, Adderall is approved by the FDA for narcolepsy along with ADHD. In contrast, Focalin does not treat narcolepsy.
What is Focalin?
Focalin is a prescription medication manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals. A medical healthcare professional will prescribe Focalin for treating ADHD. It belongs to a class of drugs known as central nervous system stimulants. The immediate-release tablets are taken twice a day, and their effects last for four hours. Focalin is also available as an extended-release or Focalin XR, taken once a day and lasting 12 hours.
The generic version of Dexmethylphenidate is closely related to methylphenidate, which is the active ingredient in Concerta, Ritalin, Daytrana, and Metadate.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is the brand name of the medication that contains amphetamine/dextroamphetamine. Adderall is a combination of different amphetamine salts. Manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals, Adderall works as a stimulating drug and is prescribed to improve focus and manage impulsive behavior in people with ADHD.
Administering the correct dose is essential. Your body will show signs when the Adderall dose is too low, and Adderall is available in immediate-release and extended-release forms. Adderall IR is taken every 4 to 6 hours, and extended-release capsules are taken daily.
Conditions Treated by Focalin Vs. Adderall
Both Focalin and Adderall are prescription medications used as stimulants for managing symptoms of ADHD. Symptoms like restlessness, impulsive behavior, difficulty with organization, multitasking, and time management are treated using Focalin and Adderall.
Focalin treats ADHD in adults and children over the age of six. In contrast, Adderall is used to treat ADHD in adults and children over the age of three. Plus, it is FDA-approved for the treatment of narcolepsy, which is a condition leading to excess sleep during the daytime. Focalin does not have FDA approval for narcolepsy, although it can still be used off-label.
Adderall vs Focalin- Are They Same?
Both Focalin and Adderall are believed to treat ADHD in similar ways by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. However, the main difference between the two is that Focalin contains dexmethylphenidate while Adderall contains a combination of amphetamine salts.
Another primary difference is that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approves Adderall to treat narcolepsy in addition to ADHD, while Focalin is only approved for ADHD. They also have differences in available strengths, side effects, duration, and age restrictions.
Dosing: Focalin vs. Adderall
The dosing of Focalin;
- Focalin (IR) is available as an oral tablet in 2.5 MG, 5 MG, and 10 MG potencies.
- Focalin (ER) is available in 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 30 mg, 35 mg, and 40 mg doses.
- Focalin is available in the market in generic versions and brand names.
- Focalin can be taken with or without food.
- Stopping Focalin suddenly can lead to withdrawal effects. If you want to stop the medication, talk to your healthcare provider, as they will slowly and gradually taper off the drug. will instruct you on how to slowly and safely taper off the medication.
The dosing of Adderall;
- Adderall IR is available as a tablet in the following potencies: 5MG, 10MG, 12.5MG, 15MG, 20MG, and 30MG.
- In contrast, Adderall XR comes in the following dosages: 5MG, 10MG, 20MG, 25MG, and 30MG capsules.
- Just like Focalin, Adderall is available in brand names and generic formations.
- Shallow the Adderall tablets, and for ER capsules, if you can not swallow them, open the contents and sprinkle them on Applesauce.
Focalin Vs. Adderall- Insurance coverage and cost
Many insurance companies cover the generic version of Focalin. The average price for a 30-day supply of Focalin is around $120 for 10 MG tablets. Therefore, with insurance, Focalin can be affordable.
In contrast, the generic Adderall is covered by some insurance companies, and without insurance, the brand-name Adderall costs around $ 327 for a 30-day supply of 20 MG tablets.
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Interactions: Focalin vs. Adderall
Before you start your treatment for ADHD, you should always discuss the following with your doctor.
- present health condition,
- your medical history, and the
- List of medications you take, including supplements and vitamins, as well.
If your doctor prescribed you Focalin vs Adderall, it is recommended not to start any new medications without prior consent from your healthcare professional. At times, specific drug interactions can lead to severe side effects, or specific drug interactions can decrease the efficiency of the drug.
Stay away from the following class of drugs when on Adderall or Focalin;
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors or MAOIs- this class of medication should be stopped two weeks before you start your ADHD treatment.
- Drugs that increase serotonin levels include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors like Lexapro and serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like Effexor (venlafaxine); triptans for migraines like Imitrex (sumatriptan); opioid pain medications like Ultram (tramadol); and dextromethorphan(found in many cough and cold medications).
- Medications for high blood pressure, such as ADHD medications, decrease the efficiency of these drugs.
Note– this is not the complete list of drug interactions. Other drug interactions can occur with Focalin or Adderall. Do not hesitate to contact your mental health care providers for more info about the drug you are using.
List of Other ADHD Drugs
Side-Effects of Prescription Medications for ADHD
Just like SSRIs and SNRIs antidepressants, medicines for ADHD medications come with their own set of potential side effects, some mild, some minor, and some serious. Also, both stimulants come with a boxed warning, which is the most vital kind of warning required by the FDA.
Also, both Adderall and Focalin are classified as Schedule Two controlled substances by the Drug Enforcement Administration or DEA. This means that both lead to addiction and dependency. And there is a chance of misuse for recreational purposes.
Some common side effects of Focalin are;
- Anxiety
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Indigestion
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Changes in vision
- Fluctuations in blood pressure and much more
In case of some serious side effects, call 911 right away.
Some serious side effects consist of the following;
- Anaphylaxis: This is a serious allergic reaction. If you find you have difficulty breathing or if you have swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, and face
- Psychosis
- Mania
- High blood pressure
- Tourette’s syndrome
- stroke
- Heart attack
- Seizures
- Irregular heartbeat
- Low levels of platelets can lead to bruising and bleeding.
- Priapism: which is a prolonged, painful erection and requires emergency medical attention)
- Circulations problems
- Raynaud syndrome: wear fingers, toes, nose, and ears become numb and cold due to the lack of blood flow in the region
- Problems with the liver functioning
Some side effects of Adderall are;
- Digestive issues like stomach pain, nausea, vomiting
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Mood swings
- Fast heartbeat or palpitations
- Changes in sexual desire
- Worsening of tics
- Speech problems
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- Hypertension
- Vision changes
- Excess of sweating
- Depression
Call 911 if you feel his symptoms are life-threatening or if you think you need an emergency. If you want to talk to your healthcare provider, do not hesitate to contact them.
Some severe side effects of Adderall are;
- Anaphylaxis: contact medical emergency if you have hives, difficulty in breathing, swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Life-threatening skin reaction
- sudden death
- stroke
- Heart attack
- Mania
- Priapism
- Cardiomyopathy is an abnormal thickening of the heart muscles
- Circulatory problems
- Raynaud’s syndrome
Finally, you should know that the use of any stimulants in children can lead to slow growth; therefore, children must be taking Adderall Focalin under the doctor’s observation.
Which is More Effective, Adderall versus Focalin?
People taking central nervous system stimulants often ask which is better, Adderall or Focalin.
In terms of efficiency and effectiveness, both Adderall and Focal are equally competitive in treating the symptoms of ADHD in adults and children alike. Side effects are more or less similar according to different studies; about 15% of the people who respond to one medication do not respond to another.
One meta-analysis that compared many stimulants for the treatment of ADHD concluded the following;
Regarding safety and efficacy, Focalin is better suited to children and adolescents. In contrast, Adderall is better suited for adults. However, the best drug for you depends on how well the medicine suits you, and this is where your healthcare provider comes in to help. For some people, medications and interventions are used. ABA therapy for ADHD is quite beneficial.
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Warnings- Focalin Vs Adderall
1. Controlled Substances
Both medications are controlled drugs and have a high potential for substance abuse disorder. Using Schedule 2 drugs in the long term can lead to addiction, misuse, and dependency. Using these drugs without prescriptions is not recommended. Follow the doctor’s instructions carefully.
2. Cardiovascular Disease
Both Focalin and Adderall are potent CNS stimulants linked to an increase in cardiovascular events like stroke and heart attacks. People with a history of heart conditions like heart disease and arrhythmias should be closely monitored.
CNS stimulants increase the blood pressure and heart rate. Discuss your health conditions with your mental health care provider before using these drugs.
3. Mental Health Issues
People with pre-existing mental health conditions may suffer because these stimulants worsen the problems. Watch out for signs of aggression, mania, paranoia, and anxiety while on Focalin or Adderall. Do not hesitate to discuss your present mental health conditions with the prescribing doctors.
4. Pregnancy & Breast Feeding
Using stimulants while pregnant and feeding a young one is not recommended.
5. Misuse and Dependency
Both these medications have a high potential for addiction, dependency, and misuse. Therefore, following the exact prescription and dosage is highly recommended. Please store all controlled substances locked in the cabinet away from the reach of children.
6. Allergic Reactions
Focalin vs Adderall can lead to severe allergic reactions like;
- dizziness
- Rashes
- Itching
- Difficulty breathing.
Call a medical emergency immediately if you notice any signs of adverse reactions from the medication.
7. Uncontrolled Movements
Vocal outbursts or uncontrolled movements may occur in people taking Focalin or Adderall. Please report these signs to medical providers immediately.
The Bottom Line
Finding the proper treatment for ADHD is crucial for someone with ADHD to lead a near-normal life. Focalin and Adderall are both CNS stimulants approved by the FDA to treat the symptoms of ADHD. According to different studies, experts concluded that Adderall XR and Focalin XR are equally effective in managing symptoms over an extended period.
They both increase focus, reduce behavioral issues, and improve attention. However, as both are Schedule 2 controlled substances, using them for more extended periods and without a prescription can lead to addiction. Follow your doctor’s medical advice when using either of them.
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.
You can achieve remarkable things by focusing your energy and determination. Stay committed to your goals and embrace each challenge as an opportunity to grow stronger. Keep pushing forward with confidence!
FAQs
1. Which is the most potent drug for ADHD?
Adderall is often called the most potent drug for managing the symptoms of ADHD. Adderall is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts that boosts the two neurotransmitters, namely, dopamine and norepinephrine. With the correct drug administration, Adderall rapidly shows effects, improving focus and reducing impulsive behavior. That’s why many mental health care providers often prescribe Adderall.
2. Will Focalin boost my energy?
Yes, when used in large amounts, Focalin leads to the feeling of euphoria. People will feel energized and high, which is why young adults highly abuse Focalin.
3. What are the side effects of stimulant substance abuse?
If someone is suffering from substance abuse disorder, call rehab immediately. Long-term misuse of stimulants leads to stroke, heart attack, and death. People who misuse stimulants have difficulty sleeping, and they suffer from psychotic symptoms and changes in their personalities.
4. What is the cost of Focalin vs Adderall?
The cost is as follows;
Focalin Brand Name- $200 to 300
Focalin generic version- $50 to 100
Adderall Brand name- $ 100-250
Adderal generic version- $ 100-250
