Navigating the wide variety of medications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be frustrating and confusing, especially when the medications are extremely similar. Adderall IR 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’ll compare the two forms of Adderall so that you can have an informed discussion with your healthcare provider about which one is right for you.
If you suspect that you have ADHD, Adderall and Adderall XR 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 our free evaluation.
| Adderall XR | Adderall | |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Schedule II stimulant | Schedule II stimulant |
| Brand / Generic Status | Brand name for amphetamine salts | Brand name for amphetamine salts |
| Form(s) of the Drug | Extended-release capsules | Immediate release tablets |
| Standard Dosage | 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, and 30 mg capsules | 5mg to 30mg tablets |
| Conditions Treated | FDA-approved uses: • ADHD • Narcolepsy | FDA-approved uses: • ADHD • Narcolepsy (sleep disorder) Off-label uses: • Depression • Anxiety • Bipolar disorder |
| Cost | Brand-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-Effects | Common 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 Use | Drug 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 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, and 30 mg 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 or break open the capsule and add it to applesauce. The recommended dose for adults is 20 mg. Children between 6 and 17 may begin with 5mg or 10mg per day and increase to 20 or 30mg 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 highly 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’re experiencing 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
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What is Adderall?
Adderall, like Adderall XR, is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, two 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 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg. The quick-acting formula—also called the immediate release (IR) formula—should be taken no more than twice a day with the last dose no later than 12:00 pm to avoid experiencing sleep loss.
Conditions Treated
The standard version of Adderall is used primarily to treat ADHD but also has applications with sleeping disorders like narcolepsy.
Cost
Both Adderall and Adderall XR come in a generic form that costs less than the branded version of the drug. Without insurance, you may pay around $240 for a one-month supply of Adderall. Under an insurance plan, you’ll likely pay no more than $30. Contact your insurance provider for accurate pricing.
Side Effects
Adderall is a stimulant ADHD medication, and all stimulant medications come with potential side effects. If these side effects begin to bother you or you experience one of the rarer side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
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, a Schedule II controlled substance, is a stimulant medication frequently prescribed to treat ADHD. However, abuse and misuse can lead to addiction and severe health consequences. Take Adderall only as prescribed, avoid sharing it, and discuss with your healthcare provider if dependency is a concern. Abrupt discontinuation may cause withdrawal symptoms such as extreme fatigue, depression, and mood swings.
There are a few drug interactions you should be wary of if taking Adderall. Speak to your ADHD healthcare provider if you are taking the following medications:
- 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, get emergency medical assistance immediately. 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
Do not immediately stop taking Adderall unless instructed by a medical professional. This medication is a controlled substance and can induce withdrawal symptoms.
Is Adderall XR or Adderall Better For Your ADHD?
Whether Adderall XR or Adderall is better for your ADHD depends on your daily 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 release effect with your ADHD medication, then the standard Adderall formula will be better suited for you. Keep in mind that you’d have to take that version twice per day instead of once. Speak with an ADHD healthcare provider about which medication might fit better with your daily needs.
How Klarity Helps You Find the Best ADHD Medication
Klarity is an online platform that connects individuals with licensed, certified ADHD specialists 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!
