Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a condition that has a lot of available treatments, but not every treatment will fit a person’s specific needs. Focalin and Adderall are two prescription drugs often used to treat ADHD, but it’s important to recognize how each medicine works before coming to a final decision regarding which is best for you.
This post will explain everything you need to know about Focalin and Adderall, so you can be armed with knowledge when talking to your medical provider about your options.
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| Focalin | Adderall | |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Schedule II stimulant | Schedule II stimulant |
| Brand / Generic Status | Brand name for dexmethylphenidate | Brand name for amphetamine salts |
| Form(s) of the Drug | Immediate-release tablets; Extended-release capsules | Immediate release tablets Extended-release capsules |
| Standard Dosage | 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg immediate-release tablets 5 mg to 35 mg extended-release capsules | 5mg to 30mg tablets 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, and 30 mg capsules |
| Conditions Treated | FDA-approved uses: • ADHD Off-label uses: • Narcolepsy | FDA-approved uses: • ADHD • Narcolepsy Off-label uses: • Depression • Anxiety • Bipolar disorder (rare) |
| Cost | Generic form (dexmethylphenidate): • $22 for 30, 2.5 mg tablets • $766 for 60, 35mg extended-release capsules | 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 | Trouble sleeping • Nausea • Stomach pain, headache • Nervousness • Loss of appetite • • Weight loss Dizziness Serious side-effects: • Signs of blood flow problems in the fingers or toes • Unusual wounds • Irregular heartbeat • Behavior changes • Uncontrolled muscle movements • Sudden verbal outbursts Vision changes | Common side-effects: • Decreased 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 | Warnings: • May be habit-forming • Effectiveness decreases over time • Interactions with other drugs—consult a doctor before use Drug interactions: • Blood pressure medication • Antidepressants | Drug interactions: • SSRIs and SNRIs • Blood pressure medication • Acid reflux medication • Blood thinners • Cold or allergy medication • Opioid-based medications • Seizure medication |
Focalin
Forms and Dosages
Focalin comes in 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg immediate-release tablets and seven different dosages between 5 mg and 35 mg for the extended-release pills.
Focalin XR is the extended-release version. It is the same medication as Focalin but has therapeutic effects that typically last 12 hours instead of 4. Both drugs take an average of 45 minutes to begin working.
Indications and Conditions Treated
Focalin is primarily used to treat the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, including the inability to pay attention or focus for extended amounts of time. It can also control behavior problems and may improve overall listening skills.
Costs
The cost of generic Focalin (Dexmethylphenidate) can range from as low as $22 for 30 of the 2.5 mg tablets to as high as $766 for 60 capsules of the 35 mg extended-release pills. Most insurances will cover Focalin.
Side Effects
Some of Focalin’s more common side effects include the following:
- Trouble sleeping
- Nausea
- Stomach pain, headache
- Nervousness
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Dizziness
In rare cases, Focalin may have more serious side effects. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Signs of blood flow problems in the fingers or toes
- Unusual wounds
- Irregular heartbeat
- Behavior changes
- Uncontrolled muscle movements
- Sudden verbal outbursts
- Vision changes
In rare cases, males may experience a painful or prolonged erection lasting four or more hours.
Warnings for Use
Dependency warning: Focalin is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and dependence. It is most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD, and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional—misuse or use without a prescription can lead to dependence, addiction, and serious health consequences.
It is crucial to take Focalin exactly as prescribed and not to share it with others. Abrupt discontinuation or misuse can result in withdrawal symptoms, including extreme fatigue, depression, and mood swings. If you or someone you know is struggling with Focalin dependency, seek immediate medical assistance.
Possible Drug Interactions:
Here are some possible drug interactions with Focalin and generic Focalin:
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Ritalin and Focalin should not be taken with MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping MAOI treatment due to the risk of a dangerous drug interaction.
- Blood Pressure Medications: Some blood pressure medications, such as beta-blockers and alpha-2 agonists, may interact with Focalin and increase the risk of side effects such as high blood pressure, heart palpitations, and arrhythmia.
- Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, such as SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants, can increase the levels of Focalin in the body and lead to a greater risk of side effects.
- Antipsychotics: Antipsychotic medications may interfere with the effectiveness of Focalin and decrease its ability to control symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
- Seizure Medications: Some seizure medications, such as phenytoin and carbamazepine, can increase the metabolism of Focalin, which can lower its effectiveness.
- Acid Reducers: Acid reducers like proton pump inhibitors and H2 blockers can increase the absorption of Focalin, which can lead to higher levels of the drug in the body and an increased risk of side effects.
It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking before starting Focalin.
Adderall
Forms and Dosages
Doses of Adderall can range from 5 mg to 30 mg tablets and are often taken two to three times a day. Adderall’s extended-release form is called Adderall XR and comes in capsules ranging from 5 mg to 30 mg but only needs to be taken once a day.
Indications and Conditions Treated
Adderall is FDA-approved to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and the sleep disorder narcolepsy, but it can also be used to treat many other disorders, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Costs
If an individual doesn’t have insurance, brand-name Adderall can cost about $8 per 5 mg tablet, with a 30-day supply costing as much as $237. Adderall also comes in a much cheaper generic form, with 30 days of 5 mg tablets costing about $13 and 30 days of maximum dose, extended-release pills costing up to $85.
Side Effects
The side effects of Adderall can be very similar to Focalin. Common side effects include
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fever
- Trouble sleeping
Notify your provider or seek medical attention if you experience more severe side effects, including the following:
- Signs of blood flow problems
- Behavior changes
- Uncontrolled movements
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat
- Seizures
- Trouble speaking
Warnings for Use
Dependency warning: Adderall—containing mixed amphetamine salts—is a prescription medication classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, and has one of the highest potentials for abuse or dependence compared to other stimulant medications. Though it has medical uses as a treatment for ADHD, misuse, overuse, or use without a prescription can lead to addiction, dependence, and severe health consequences. It is crucial to take Adderall exactly as prescribed and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Abrupt discontinuation or misuse of Adderall can result in withdrawal symptoms such as extreme fatigue, depression, and mood swings. If you experience these symptoms or believe you may be dependent, seek medical assistance immediately.
Those with bipolar disorder or other mood disorders should talk to their healthcare provider before taking Adderall, as it can cause mania.
Possible Drug Interactions
There are several possible drug interactions you need to look out for when taking Adderall and generic Adderall:
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Adderall should not be taken with MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping MAOI treatment due to the risk of a dangerous drug interaction.
- Blood Pressure Medications: Some blood pressure medications, such as beta-blockers and alpha-2 agonists, can interact with Adderall and increase the risk of cardiovascular side effects such as high blood pressure, heart palpitations, and arrhythmia.
- Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, including SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants, can increase the levels of Adderall in the body and lead to a greater risk of negative side effects.
- Antipsychotics: Antipsychotic medications may interfere with the effectiveness of Adderall and decrease its ability to control symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
- Seizure Medications: Some seizure medications, such as phenytoin and carbamazepine, can increase the metabolism of Adderall, which can lower its effectiveness.
- Acid Reducers: Acid reducers like proton pump inhibitors and H2 blockers can increase the absorption of Adderall, which can lead to higher levels of the drug in the body and an increased risk of side effects.
- Vitamin C: High doses of vitamin C can increase the levels of Adderall in the body, increasing the risk of side effects.
You must consult with your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking before starting Adderall.
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Focalin vs. Adderall
Both Focalin and Adderall are central nervous system (CNS) stimulants that affect certain neurotransmitters in the brain. While both medications improve the effectiveness of norepinephrine, Focalin targets the brain’s usage of dopamine, while Adderall targets serotonin. For individuals with ADHD, an increase in the efficacy of these neurotransmitters can assist with the lack of focus most commonly associated with the disorder.
Focalin contains dexmethylphenidate, a mild stimulant that is used to treat ADHD. Adderall contains amphetamine salts, which are central nervous system stimulants that work to restore imbalance in the brain.
Focalin and Adderall come in similar dosages, but Adderall has more available dosages for an individual’s unique needs. Both medications also come in an extended-release form that doesn’t have to be taken as often, though Adderall is often slightly more expensive than Focalin. Focalin and Adderall can have serious interactions with other medications and should only be taken under the supervision of a licensed clinician.
Some studies have shown that the methylphenidate contained in Focalin is more effective in treating children and adolescents, while the amphetamines in Adderall are more effective in adults. Adderall is largely the most prevalent treatment for ADHD and is often the one most prescribed by mental health providers.
Due to the stimulant nature of Focalin and Adderall, individuals with high blood pressure or any other heart condition should exercise caution when taking either one of them. If you experience a severe headache, anxiety, chest pain, uneven heartbeat, or shortness of breath after taking either of these drugs, you should stop taking them and contact your medical provider immediately.
Risk of Dependency For Focalin and Adderall
Both Focalin and Adderall are central nervous system stimulant medications classified as Schedule II controlled substances by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). This means that they have a high potential for abuse and dependence.
As Schedule II substances, Focalin and Adderall have restrictions on how they can be prescribed and dispensed. In addition, possession of Focalin and Adderall without a valid prescription is illegal and can result in criminal charges. It’s important to use these medications only as prescribed and to keep them in a secure location to prevent misuse or diversion.
Focalin vs Adderall: Which ADHD Medication Should You Take?
Finding the right ADHD medication can be a complex process, so it’s important to consider all possible factors to avoid a negative outcome. Speak with your doctor about your medical history and all of the medications you take to avoid any serious drug interactions or side effects.
Find Out Which ADHD Treatment is Right For You
Focalin and Adderall may appear to be similar medications, but their differences make talking to an ADHD-trained medical provider a must. When you book on Klarity, you can speak with a board-certified mental health professional to get up to date on the Focalin vs Adderall question.
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