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Adderall XR vs Adderall: Which One Should You Take?

Adderall XR vs Adderall: Which One Should You Take?

Written by Klarity Editorial Team

Published: Sep 28, 2022

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Zoe Russell

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Navigating the variety of medications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be frustrating and confusing, especially when the medications are similar. Adderall XR vs Adderall is one of the harder questions to answer.

Adderall or Adderall IR, the standard formula, is one of the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications for reducing symptoms and regulating brain function. Adderall XR is the same medication in extended-release form.

In this article, we compare the 2 forms of Adderall so that you can have an informed discussion with your healthcare provider about which is the best choice for your ADHD symptoms.

If you suspect that you have ADHD, Adderall XR or Adderal could help relieve your symptoms. Klarity matches patients with experienced healthcare providers for personalized ADHD treatment, including prescription medication. Start your journey toward ADHD relief with a free evaluation.

Adderall XRAdderall
Drug ClassSchedule II stimulantSchedule II stimulant
Brand / Generic StatusBrand name for amphetamine saltsBrand name for amphetamine salts
Form(s) of the DrugExtended-release capsulesImmediate release tablets
Standard Dosage5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, and 30 mg capsules5mg to 30mg tablets
Conditions TreatedFDA-approved uses:
• ADHD
• Narcolepsy
FDA-approved uses:
• ADHD
• Narcolepsy (sleep disorder)

Off-label uses:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
CostBrand-name Adderall XR:
• $300 for one month’s supply

Generic form (amphetamine salts):
• $180 for one month’s supply (without insurance)
Brand-name Adderall:
• $8 per 5mg tablet
• $237 for a 30-day supply

Generic form (amphetamine salts):
• $13 for 30 days of 5mg tablets
• $85 for 30 extended-release pills
Side-EffectsCommon side effects:
• Dry mouth
• Low appetite
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Headaches
• Weight loss
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Racing pulse
• Mood imbalance
• Stomach pain

Serious side effects:
• Seizures
• Eyesight instability
• Urinary tract infection
• Nausea
• Fever
• Stroke
• Heart attack
Common side-effects:
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Headache
• Fever
• Trouble sleeping

Serious side-effects:
• Signs of blood flow problems
• Behavior changes
• Uncontrolled movements
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeat
• Seizures
• Trouble speaking
Warnings For UseDrug interactions:
• MAOIs
• Medications that raise blood pressure
• SSRIs and SNRIs,
• Medications containing lisdexamfetamine

Don’t crush or chew the capsule, as it may cause serotonin syndrome.
Drug interactions:
• SSRIs and SNRIs
• Blood pressure medication
• Acid reflux medication
• Blood thinners
• Cold or allergy medication
• Opioid-based medications
• Seizure medication

What is Adderall XR?

Stimulant medications like Adderall help those with ADHD symptoms pay attention, control behavioral issues, organize tasks, and listen by regulating the effects of neurotransmitters in the brain—specifically dopamine and norepinephrine. Adderall XR capsules have a time-released formula that remains in the system longer than the standard Adderall.

Forms and dosages

An Adderall XR dose comes in 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 milligrams oral capsules. The slow-dissolving capsules allow for a steady release of the active ingredients into the bloodstream. Adderall XR can be taken with or without food and should only be taken once daily as it lasts in your system for at least 12 hours.

When taking Adderall XR, you may swallow the capsule whole. The recommended dose for adults is 20 milligrams. Children between 6 and 17 may begin with 5 or 10 milligrams per day and increase to 20 or 30 milligrams if needed.

Conditions treated

Adderall XR is primarily used for the treatment of ADHD, although it has been used in some cases for those with sleeping disorders, like narcolepsy.

Cost

Adderall XR comes in a generic form that’s much less expensive than the branded medication. However, without insurance, you may pay $180 or more for a one-month supply of generic Adderall XR. 

If you get the branded version, you’ll spend approximately $300. Contact your health insurance carrier to see whether your current plan partially or completely covers Adderall XR.

Side effects

Everyone experiences side effects differently. It’s important to discuss any ongoing or worsening symptoms with your healthcare provider. Common side effects of Adderall XR include:

  • Dry mouth
  • Low appetite
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Headaches
  • Weight loss
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Diarrhea
  • Racing pulse
  • Mood imbalance
  • Stomach pain

More severe, but less common side effects of Adderall XR include:

  • Seizures
  • Eyesight instability
  • Urinary tract infection
  • Nausea
  • Fever
  • Stroke
  • Heart attack

If you experience any severe side effects listed above, contact your medical provider immediately.

Warnings and drug interactions

Adderall XR is a Schedule II controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act in the United States which means it has a high potential for misuse and abuse. Adderall XR should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider to avoid the increased risk of negative side effects that come with Adderall misuse, including sleep disturbances, cardiovascular problems, and psychosis. 

Only use Adderall XR as prescribed by a healthcare professional and avoid sharing it with others.

Don’t crush or chew the capsule, as it’ll potentially cause you to experience a dangerous condition called serotonin syndrome. This condition occurs when the brain is flooded with serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in the body’s production of positive, “good” feelings. 

Serotonin syndrome can lead to heart attack and even death. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact emergency medical services immediately.

  • Agitation or restlessness
  • Insomnia
  • Confusion
  • Increased heart rate
  • High blood pressure
  • Muscle rigidity
  • Excessive sweating
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Shivering
  • High fever
  • Seizures
  • Loss of consciousness

Avoid suddenly stopping this medication as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Other things to avoid or speak to your healthcare provider about while taking this medication include:

  • MAOIs like procarbazine, metaxalone, etc. 
  • Medications that raise blood pressure 
  • SSRIs and SNRIs, 
  • Medications containing lisdexamfetamine as Adderall XR is very similar in chemical structure  

Licensed providers on Klarity provide personalized treatment. Find a provider that matches your needs and preferences.

What is Adderall?

Adderall, like Adderall XR, is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, 2 central nervous system stimulants. These stimulants affect neurotransmitters in the brain that control behaviors like hyperactivity and impulsivity. The standard form of Adderall is quick-acting, as opposed to the long-lasting formulation in Adderall XR.

Forms and dosages

Adderall comes in tablet form and in the following dosages: 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 20, and 30 milligrams. The quick-acting formula — also called the immediate release (IR) formula — is taken no more than twice a day with the last dose no later than 12:00 p.m. to avoid experiencing sleep loss.

Conditions treated

The standard version of Adderall was used primarily to treat ADHD but also had applications with sleeping disorders like narcolepsy.

Cost

Both Adderall IR comes in a generic form called dextroamphetamine-amphetamine, that costs less than the branded version of the drug. Without insurance, you may have paid around $1,138 for 100 oral tablets of brand-name Adderall. The generic will cost from $24 to $63 for 100 tablets. Contact your insurance provider for accurate pricing if your plan covers the medication. 

Side effects

Adderall i a stimulant ADHD medication, and all stimulant medications come with potential side effects. Side effects you may experience on Adderall, include:

Side effects of Adderall include:

  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Elevated heart rate
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Restlessness
  • Dry mouth
  • Diarrhea, constipation, nausea
  • Headache
  • Weight loss
  • Mood changes
  • Anxiety
  • Dizziness

Rarer Adderall side effects include:

  • Seizures
  • Eyesight instability
  • Urinary tract infection
  • Nausea
  • Fever
  • Stroke
  • Heart attack

Warnings and drug interactions

Dependency warning: Adderall, is a Schedule II controlled substance, is a stimulant medication frequently prescribed to treat ADHD. However, abuse and misuse could lead to addiction and severe health consequences. Adderall IR is taken only as prescribed, not shared, and discussed with a healthcare provider if dependency was a concern. Abrupt discontinuation may cause withdrawal symptoms, such as extreme fatigue, depression, and mood swings. 

There are a few drug interactions you should have been wary of if taking Adderall, including:

  • SSRI and SNRI drugs
  • Blood pressure medication
  • Acid reflux medication
  • Blood thinners
  • Cold or allergy medication
  • Opioid-based medications
  • Seizure medication

If you experience hives or other signs of an allergic reaction while taking Adderall, you need to get emergency medical assistance immediately. You should also call a healthcare provider at once if you experience any of the following:

  • Heart problems like chest pain, shortness of breath
  • Signs of psychosis-like hallucinations or paranoia
  • Circulatory problems (numbness, pain, cold fingers and toes)
  • Seizures
  • Muscle twitches
  • Changes in vision

Don’t immediately stop taking Adderall unless instructed by a medical professional. This medication is a controlled substance and can stopping it cause withdrawal symptoms.

Adderall XR vs Adderall, which is better for your ADHD?

Whether Adderall XR vs Adderall is better for your depends on our needs and lifestyle. If you simply want to take medication once a day instead of twice, Adderall XR is for you. Adderall XR has a steadier effect throughout the day, lasting up to 12 hours.

If you’d rather have a more immediate effect from your ADHD medication, the standard Adderall formula is better suited for you. Keep in mind that you have to take Adderal IR twice a day instead of once. 

Speak with an ADHD healthcare provider about which ADHD medication might best fit your daily needs.

How Klarity helps you find the best ADHD medication

Klarity is an online platform that connects you with a licensed, certified ADHD specialist who can identify the right medication for you. At Klarity, you can easily book an appointment with a certified and licensed medical provider in your state within 48 hours and have them treat symptoms without leaving your home. 

You shouldn’t have to figure out which ADHD medication is right for you on your own. Take a free self-evaluation or make an appointment with an ADHD healthcare provider today!

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