Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a condition that has a lot of available treatments, but not every treatment will fit a person\u2019s specific needs. Focalin and Adderall are two prescription drugs often used to treat ADHD, but it\u2019s important to recognize how each medicine works before coming to a final decision regarding which is best for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Schedule an appointment<\/a> today, and you\u2019ll be able to talk to an ADHD-trained medical provider about Focalin and Adderall in <\/em>48 hours or less<\/em><\/strong>. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some of Focalin\u2019s more common side effects include the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n In rare cases, Focalin may have more serious side effects. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n In rare cases, males may experience a painful or prolonged erection lasting four or more hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dependency warning:<\/strong> 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\u2014misuse or use without a prescription can lead to dependence, addiction, and serious health consequences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here are some possible drug interactions with Focalin and generic Focalin:<\/p>\n\n\n\n It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking before starting Focalin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Doses of Adderall can range from 5 mg to 30 mg tablets and are often taken two to three times a day. Adderall\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If an individual doesn\u2019t 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The side effects of Adderall can be very similar to Focalin. Common side effects include <\/p>\n\n\n\n Notify your provider or seek medical attention if you experience more severe side effects, including the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dependency warning: <\/strong>Adderall\u2014containing mixed amphetamine salts\u2014is 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Those with bipolar disorder or other mood disorders should talk to their healthcare provider before taking Adderall, as it can cause mania.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are several possible drug interactions you need to look out for when taking Adderall and generic Adderall:<\/p>\n\n\n\n You must consult with your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking before starting Adderall.<\/p>\n\n\n\t\t<\/th> Focalin<\/th> Adderall<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n Drug Class<\/strong><\/td> Schedule II stimulant<\/td> Schedule II stimulant<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n Brand \/ Generic Status<\/strong><\/td> Brand name for dexmethylphenidate<\/td> Brand name for amphetamine salts<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n Form(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td> Immediate-release tablets; Extended-release capsules<\/td> Immediate release tablets
\nExtended-release capsules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\nStandard Dosage<\/strong><\/td> 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg immediate-release tablets
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\n5 mg to 35 mg extended-release capsules<\/td>5mg to 30mg tablets
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\n5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, and 30 mg capsules
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\nConditions Treated<\/strong><\/td> FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 ADHD
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\nOff-label uses:
\n\u2022 Narcolepsy<\/td>FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 ADHD
\n\u2022 Narcolepsy
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\nOff-label uses:
\n\u2022 Depression
\n\u2022 Anxiety
\n\u2022 Bipolar disorder (rare)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\nCost<\/strong><\/td> Generic form (dexmethylphenidate):
\n\u2022 $22 for 30, 2.5 mg tablets
\n\u2022 $766 for 60, 35mg extended-release capsules<\/td>Brand-name Adderall:
\n\u2022 $8 per 5mg tablet
\n\u2022 $237 for a 30-day supply
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\nGeneric form (amphetamine salts):
\n\u2022 $13 for 30 days of 5mg tablets
\n\u2022 $85 for 30 extended-release pills<\/td>\n<\/tr>\nSide-Effects<\/strong><\/td> Trouble sleeping
\n\u2022 Nausea
\n\u2022 Stomach pain, headache
\n\u2022 Nervousness
\n\u2022 Loss of appetite
\n\u2022 \u2022 Weight loss
\nDizziness
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\nSerious side-effects:
\n\u2022 Signs of blood flow problems in the fingers or toes
\n\u2022 Unusual wounds
\n\u2022 Irregular heartbeat
\n\u2022 Behavior changes
\n\u2022 Uncontrolled muscle movements
\n\u2022 Sudden verbal outbursts
\nVision changes<\/td>Common side-effects:
\n\u2022 Decreased appetite
\n\u2022 Weight loss
\n\u2022 Dry mouth
\n\u2022 Nausea
\n\u2022 Headache
\n\u2022 Fever
\n\u2022 Trouble sleeping
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\nSerious side-effects:
\n\u2022 Signs of blood flow problems
\n\u2022 Behavior changes
\n\u2022 Uncontrolled movements
\n\u2022 Shortness of breath
\n\u2022 Irregular heartbeat
\n\u2022 Seizures
\n\u2022 Trouble speaking<\/td>\n<\/tr>\nWarnings For Use<\/strong><\/td> Warnings:
\n\u2022 May be habit-forming
\n\u2022 Effectiveness decreases over time
\n\u2022 Interactions with other drugs\u2014consult a doctor before use
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\nDrug interactions:
\n\u2022 Blood pressure medication
\n\u2022 Antidepressants<\/td>Drug interactions:
\n\u2022 SSRIs and SNRIs
\n\u2022 Blood pressure medication
\n\u2022 Acid reflux medication
\n\u2022 Blood thinners
\n\u2022 Cold or allergy medication
\n\u2022 Opioid-based medications
\n\u2022 Seizure medication<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\nFocalin<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Forms and Dosages<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Indications and Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Costs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Side Effects<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Warnings for Use<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Possible Drug Interactions: <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Adderall<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Forms and Dosages<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Indications and Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Costs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Side Effects<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Warnings for Use<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Possible Drug Interactions<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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