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Adderall vs Methylphenidate

Adderall Vs Methylphenidate

If we talk about Adderall vs Methylphenidate, there are many things to compare between both medicines. Well, both medicines will be used for the treatment of ADHD (Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder) and Narcolepsy (disability of the brain to control sleep and wake-up cycle) and both will work on the Central Nervous System the difference between both will only happen due to the different mixture of salts and different side effects.

Adderall is also a brand name of a combination chemical on the other hand Methylphenidate is a blend word for the chemical. There are also some eligibility criteria for the use of these medicines that differ from each other. If we compare the off-label uses of both medicines then there are some differences. So, if you are the one who wants to know which medicine is best for you by comparing them then you are in the right place. By reading the full article you will get information about the difference between Adderall and Methylphenidate.

What is Adderall?

Adderall is a trading name for the combination drug that includes 4 types of amphetamine salts, Those are Amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, dextroamphetamine saccharate, and amphetamine sulfate. The two main ingredients Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine are the central nervous system stimulants that help to pay attention, stay focused, and control uncontrollable behavioral activities. Adderall is an FDA-approved medicine to treat Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy. This medicine will improve cognitive control and enhance wakefulness. Adderall works by increasing the level of Dopamine, Norepinephrine, and Neurotransmitters in the brain. However, because this medicine is for general use it is necessary to take a prescription from a doctor before using it and avoid taking it without the direction of an authorized Doctor.

What is Methylphenidate?

Methylphenidate is a blended name of chemicals known as Methyl phenyl(piperidine-2-yl)acetate. This medicine is sold under the brands like Ritalin and Concerta. This is also an FDA-approved medicine that is used to treat ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and instance for Narcolepsy. With that, 70% of people who are using this medication see the benefits of this medicine.

Methylphenidate is a great Central Nervous System Stimulant that works by controlling the level of Dopamine and Neurotransmitters. If we compare this medicine with amphetamines this medicine will increase more neurons than amphetamines. But, because it will also have some side effects it is necessary to take a prescription from an authorized doctor about it and use it according to the direction they are giving.

Uses Of Adderall vs Methylphenidate:-

Adderall and Methylphenidate both are FDA-approved medications used to treat brain disorders but they have also some off-label uses that have some differences. But before taking it on-label or off-label it is always necessary to take the prescription of a doctor first to avoid severe side-effects of medication.

Uses of Adderall:-

For ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder):

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is the most common problem held from childhood. This will affect the neurodevelopment of the brain people suffering from this disorder feel problems like inattentiveness, loss of concentration, over-activity, and behavioral changes. Adderall helps to control the symptoms by controlling the functions of neurotransmitters and by balancing the level of chemicals in the brain like Dopamine and Norepinephrine. This medication helps to improve brain development and the growth of nerves. But to see better results it is necessary to take it regularly according to the directions that your doctor gives you.

For Narcolepsy (Sleep cycle Disorder):

Narcolepsy is a disorder in which people will experience difficulty to wakeup all over the day. This neurological disorder decreases the ability of the brain to control the cycle of sleep and wake-up. The doctor prescribed Adderall for Narcolepsy because it is an FDA-approved medicine that gives our brain the ability to control this cycle by enhancing wakefulness, activeness, and Attention. However, it is very necessary to take a prescription from a doctor before taking it to avoid severe side effects.

For Enhancing Performance:

Adderall and all amphetamine stimulants help to enhance performance as researchers have shown that Adderall helps to enhance Wakefulness, boost mood, and also enhance the ability to recall (boosts memory). Adderall not only enhances cognitive performance but also affects the physical performance of the body. It helps to increase the strength of muscles and make us more active.

Off-Label Uses:-

Adderall is also used as an off-label medicine and sometimes your Doctor will prescribe you the medicine for the treatment of Depression, Bipolar Depression (mood swings from extremely high to extremely low levels), Anxiety, and Weight Loss. But because it is unapproved and no deep research would be done for this use sometimes it is risky to use it off-label.

Uses of Methylphenidate:

For ADHD ( Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder):

Methylphenidate is an FDA-approved medicine to use for ADHD. Like Adderall, it also works on Neurotransmitters in the brain and balances the level of dopamine Norepinephrine, and other chemicals of the brain. It is a central nervous system that helps to control the over-activeness, impulsiveness, and behavioral changes. 80% of Children using this medication will see positive changes in them. Do not use this medicine without the prescription of a doctor as it may cause adverse reactions.

For Narcolepsy:

Methylphenidate is also approved by FDA for the treatment of Narcolepsy which causes sleep and wake-up cycle disorder. This medication will help to enhance wakefulness and performance. This medicine increases the alertness of people so that they work actively without dizziness. However, it is necessary to know that this medicine is not used to bound natural sleep or to avoid laziness using the medicine for this reason may cause worse effects.

Off-label Uses:-

As an off-label medicine, this drug is also used to treat Bipolar Disorder and fatigue in patients with Cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, etc. The uses of methylphenidate as an off-label medicine vary from low to moderate and it is best to use it off-label if it is prescribed by a doctor.

Adderall vs Methylphenidate: Side Effects

Every medication has some side effects, Some side effects are common and fade away with time while some side effects are severe and may need medical assistance. Methylphenidate and Adderall also have some side effects if not taken properly, due to other drug interactions, or due to some health conditions. The side effects of Methylphenidate and Adderall are mentioned below.

Side-Effects of Adderall:

  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Insomnia
  • Mood Swings
  • Nausea
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Stomachache

The Adverse side effects of Adderall include-

  • Irregular Heartbeat
  • Urinary Tract Infection
  • Lack of Energy
  • Elevate Blood Pressure
  • Vomiting
  • Nervousness
  • Hypotension
  • Abdominal Pain

Side-Effects of Methylphenidate:

  • Insomnia
  • Stomachache
  • Headache
  • Anorexia
  • Nervousness
  • Irritability
  • Dizzyness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • Heartburn
  • Dry Mouth
  • Muscle Tightness
  • Heavy Sweating

The Adverse side effects of Methylphenidate include –

  • Irregular Heartbeat
  • Chest Pain
  • Shortness of Breath
  • Excessive Tiredness
  • Seizures
  • Numbness
  • Hallucination
  • Agitation
  • Abnormal Excited Mood
  • Depression
  • Pain Erection
  • Change in Skin color
  • Fever
  • Rash
  • Wounds on Fingers or Toes
  • Itching
  • Swelling

Adderall vs Methylphenidate: Dosage & Available Forms:-

Adderall is available in the market in two forms:-

  • IR (Immediate Release) Oral Tablets
  • XR (Extended Release) Capsules

Methylphenidate comes in the form of :-

  • Immediate Release Tablet
  • Chewable Tablet
  • Liquid Solution
  • Extended-release Suspension
  • Extended-release Tablet
  • Extended-release Capsule
  • Extensive-release Chewable Tablets

Duration of Effects: Adderall vs Methylphenidate:-

In the beginning, Adderall starts to do work in 30 to 60 minutes on the other hand Methylphenidate starts to do work in 20 to 30 minutes. The Duration of time that both medicines take varies according to the form and age group:

Adderall:-

  • Adderall (IR) Adult – 5 to 8 Hours
  • Adderall (IR) Children – 4 to 6 Hours
  • Adderall (XR) Adult – 10 to 12 Hours
  • Adderall (XR) Children – 8 to 10 hours

Methylphenidate:-

  • IR Adult – 4 to 6 hours
  • IR Children- 3 to 4 hours
  • XR Adult – 10 to 14 hours
  • XR Children – 6 to 8 hours

Is Methylphenidate Better Than Adderall?

Methylphenidate and Adderall medications are efficient for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Both have almost the same efficiency, cost, and side effects. Both medications are beneficial in different circumstances. Adderall is efficient for the treatment of ADHD in adults while Methylphenidate is efficient for the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents. This analysis is based on a short-term study report, long-term study reports are not available yet. Methylphenidate’s effects are milder than Adderall’s effects, and people may experience a greater effect on cognitive function and thought processes. Adderall can also have other effects on the body. Methylphenidate starts working faster than Adderall, taking about 20-30 minutes to start working, compared to Adderall’s 30 minutes to one hour.

Conclusion:-

Methylphenidate and Adderall are used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, both work efficiently in different situations as Adderall is efficient in treating ADHD in adults whereas Methylphenidate is efficient in treating ADHD in children and adolescents. The doctor prescribes these medications according to the patient’s requirement, So you should take the prescribed medication according to your doctor’s guidelines.

FAQs

Is Methylphenidate Stronger Than Adderall?

The effects of Methylphenidate and Adderall may not be the same for everyone. According to some studies, the impact of Methylphenidate is milder than Adderall.

Is Methylphenidate The Best For ADHD?

Methylphenidate is the most popular prescription medication for treating ADHD in children and adolescents.

Is Adderall Or Concerta Better For ADHD?

According to some studies, Concerta (brand name for Methylphenidate) is the best medication for ADHD in children and adolescents while Adderall is the best medication for ADHD in adults.

Does Ritalin Keep You Awake Like Adderall?

When we talk about Adderall vs Methylphenidate, Ritalin (brand name for Methylphenidate) and Adderall both are central nervous system stimulants and they increase focus, energy, and wakefulness.

What Are The Top 3 ADHD Medications?

The best medication for ADHD for you depends on several factors and it can be decided by only your doctor after examining your health condition and severity of the issue. Two types of medication are available for the treatment of ADHD, stimulants and non-stimulants. Adderall, Vyvanse, and Concerta are stimulant medications while Strattera is an example of non-stimulant medication.

What Is Safer Adderall Or Ritalin?

Adderall and Ritalin (Methylphenidate) both are safe medications, Ritalin is prescribed for ADHD in children and adolescents while Adderall is prescribed to treat ADHD in adults. Both have low side effects and are popular medications for ADHD.

What Can Adderall Be Replaced With?

For different people, Adderall can be replaced by different medications according to their health conditions and the severity of their issues. Some options for Adderall are Ritalin, Concerta, Dexedrine, and Strattera.

Why Is My Methylphenidate Not Working Anymore?

There are many reasons why Methylphenidate may not work for you such as incorrect dosages, co-existing disorders, and tolerance of medication.

Does Adderall Affect Your Teeth?

Adderall is a stimulant ADHD medication, that may activate the sympathetic nervous system. It may cause a condition of nocturnal bruxism, in which people involuntarily grind, or clench their teeth while they sleep.

How Long Can You Stay On Methylphenidate?

You may need to take Methylphenidate for several months or several years depending on your health condition. Generally, it is not a lifelong medication.

What Are The Worst Side Effects Of Adderall?

Some of the side effects of Adderall are common and may fade with time but some of its side effects may need medical assistance. The worst side effects of Adderall are an increase in blood pressure, intense muscle pain, panic attacks, and mood swings.

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