Focalin vs Adderall: Differences, Similarities, Which is Stronger?
What is Focalin?
Focalin is a brand of Dexmethylphenidate a medication used as part of a treatment program to control symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; more difficulty focusing, controlling actions, and remaining still or quiet than other people who are the same age) in adults and children. Dexmethylphenidate is in a class of medications called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. It works by increasing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain.
How Focalin is used?
Dexmethylphenidate comes as a tablet and an extended-release (long-acting) capsule to take by mouth. The tablet is usually taken twice a day, at least 4 hours apart, with or without food. The extended-release capsule is usually taken once a day in the morning. It may be taken with or without food but will start to work faster if it is taken without food. Take dexmethylphenidate at around the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Swallow the extended-release capsules whole; do not chew or crush them. If you are unable to swallow the extended-release capsule, you can carefully open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on a spoonful of applesauce. Swallow this mixture immediately, but do not chew it. Do not save this mixture to use at a later time.
Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of dexmethylphenidate and gradually increase your dose, not more often than once a week.
Your condition should improve during your treatment. Call your doctor if your symptoms worsen at any time during your treatment or do not improve after 1 month.
Your doctor may tell you to stop taking dexmethylphenidate from time to time to see if the medication is still needed. Follow these directions carefully.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a combination of Dextroamphetamine and amphetamine that is used as part of a treatment program to control symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; more difficulty focusing, controlling actions, and remaining still or quiet than other people who are the same age).
Adderall is used to treat ADHD in adults and children 3 years of age and older. Adderall XR is used to treat ADHD in adults and children 6 years of age and older. Mydayis is used to treat ADHD in adults and children 13 years of age and older. Adderall is also used to treat narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep) in adults and children 12 years of age and older.
Adderall is in a class of medications called central nervous system stimulants. It works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain. Adderall also helps to boost energy levels and increase wakefulness, which could help people with narcolepsy, a sleep disorder causing excessive sleepiness. As the drug can boost levels of focus, some people use it to improve their performance in sport and study.
How is Adderall used?
Adderall XR dosage begins at 5 mg. Then there are 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, and 30 mg dosages. The Adderall IR dosage options start at 5 mg and include 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg. There is more flexibility in immediate-release dosages, allowing doctors to start patients out on a minimal dose and increase it incrementally.
Doctors will usually start an Adderall dosage at the smallest amount that may potentially work and then gradually increase it. For ADHD, the immediate-release dosage for adults is between 5 mg to 40 mg a day. The dosage is divided throughout the day.
In regards to ADHD, doses of more than 40 mg a day are rarely more effective than lower amounts. For narcolepsy treatment, doctors may begin with 5 mg a day and then go up to 60 mg a day, with dosages given every four to six hours.
With Adderall XR, one dose is taken daily instead of in divided doses. A doctor may still recommend that the extended-release dosage not exceed 40 mg a day.
Focalin vs. Adderall
Below are the differences and similarities between Focalin and Adderall:
Active ingredient: Although both are stimulant medications, Focalin is the brand name for the generic drug called dexmethylphenidate; Adderall is the brand name for dextroamphetamine/levoamphetamine salts.
How they work: Both Focalin and Adderall work similarly by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine.
Control status: Focalin and Adderall are controlled substances that have a high potential for abuse. Both drugs are classified as Schedule II drugs by the DEA. Taking these medications long-term can increase the risk of abuse and dependence, especially if they are taken outside of their prescribed dosage. These medications should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Strength: Studies suggest that Focalin and Adderall are nearly identical in terms of potency (meaning 5mg Focalin IR is approximately equivalent to 5mg Adderall IR and 10mg of Focalin XR approximately equals 10mg Adderall XR).
Uses: Both are stimulant medications prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD. But studies suggest that Focalin is better for treating children and adolescents while Adderall is better for treating adults with ADHD. Both drugs are available in immediate-release and extended-release versions. Consult your healthcare provider for the best treatment option for you.
Does Focalin feel the same as Adderall?
The effects and side effects of Focalin and Adderall that are similar include restlessness, anxiety, stomach upset or pain, loss of appetite, dry mouth, headache, or sleep problems (insomnia). Side effects of Focalin that are different from Adderall include feeling jittery or sore throat.
