{"id":3354,"date":"2022-09-02T02:47:36","date_gmt":"2022-09-02T09:47:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/?p=3354"},"modified":"2023-10-04T10:48:26","modified_gmt":"2023-10-04T17:48:26","slug":"adderall-vs-quillivant","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/post\/adderall-vs-quillivant\/","title":{"rendered":"Adderall vs. Quillivant"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Some ADHD medications are so similar that deciding which one to try begins to feel like a guessing game. Since acclimating to a new medication takes several weeks, it could take time before you realize you\u2019ve chosen incorrectly\u2014and then you have to spend even more time tapering off the old medication and integrating a new one. This process can exacerbate coinciding conditions like anxiety and insomnia, which can make your other ADHD symptoms worse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comparison guides like the one below are designed to make this decision easier by providing clear and concise information about each medication. Though Adderall and Quillivant are both stimulant-based ADHD medications, there are a handful of differences between them regarding available forms, side effects, contraindications, and cost. These factors, along with the advice of a licensed medical professional, can help you determine which medication may be more effective for you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you need a straightforward and reliable healthcare provider who can diagnose and treat your ADHD, get connected with one on Klarity today. Klarity makes it simple to access online ADHD treatment<\/a>, including prescription medications like Adderall or Quillivant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To get started with Klarity, schedule an appointment<\/a> today. <\/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
<\/th>Quillivant<\/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 methylphenidate
\n
\n<\/td>
Brand name for amphetamine salts<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Form(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td>Liquid suspension<\/td>Immediate release tablets<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Standard Dosage<\/strong><\/td>10mg per liquid dose<\/td>5mg to 30mg tablets<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/td>FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 ADHD
\n\u2022 Narcolepsy<\/td>
FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 ADHD
\n\u2022 Narcolepsy (sleep disorder)
\n
\nOff-label uses:
\n\u2022 Depression
\n\u2022 Anxiety
\n\u2022 Bipolar disorder<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cost<\/strong><\/td>Brand-name Quillivant:
\n\u2022 $400 to $450 for a one-month supply
\n
\nNo generic version for Rx.
\n
\nCost may vary depending on insurance coverage.
\n<\/td>
Brand-name Adderall:
\n\u2022 $8 per 5mg tablet
\n\u2022 $237 for a 30-day supply
\n
\nGeneric form (amphetamine salts):
\n\u2022 $13 for 30 days of 5mg tablets
\n\u2022 $85 for 30 extended-release pills<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side-Effects<\/strong><\/td>Common side effects:
\n\u2022 Decreased appetite
\n\u2022 Weight loss
\n\u2022 Nausea
\n\u2022 Stomach pain
\n\u2022 Dry mouth
\n\u2022 Insomnia
\n\u2022 Increased blood pressure
\n\u2022 Elevated heart rate
\n\u2022 Dizziness
\n\u2022 Irritability
\n\u2022 Anxiety
\n\u2022 Mood swings
\n\u2022 Restlessness
\n
\nSerious side effects:
\n\u2022 Seizures
\n\u2022 Priapism
\n\u2022 Eyesight changes
\n\u2022 Blurred vision
\n<\/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
\n
\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>\n
Warnings For Use<\/strong><\/td>Contraindications:
\n\u2022 Cardiac abnormalities
\n\u2022 Blood pressure conditions
\n\u2022 History of drug abuse
\n<\/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\n\n

What is Adderall?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Adderall is an ADHD medication composed of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, two central nervous system stimulants. These stimulants alter the behavior of neurotransmitters\u2013 e.g., dopamine and serotonin\u2013in the brain. This results in less hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and lack of focus in ADHD patients who take the medication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Forms and Dosages<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The standard Adderall formula, called the immediate-release formula (IR), comes in tablet form. Normal for Adderall start at 5 mg and can increase to 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg. This form of Adderall should be taken no more than twice per day, with the last dose coming no later than noon. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Adderall\u2019s extended-release form, Adderall XR, has nearly replaced the immediate-release form in recent years. While Adderall IR treats symptoms of ADHD for 5 to 8 hours, Adderall XR lasts anywhere from 10 to 12 hours. You will be prescribed a higher dosage of Adderall XR, as a 20mg tablet is equivalent to two 10mg IR tablets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conditions Treated<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Adderall is FDA-approved for patients with ADHD and some sleeping disorders like narcolepsy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Adderall comes in branded and generic forms, with the generic form being less expensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Without insurance, you may be paying upwards of $8 per day for a one-month supply of Adderall. Under an insurance plan, you\u2019ll likely pay no more than $30 per month for a supply of Adderall. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Side Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Because Adderall is a stimulant, it does come with a few potential side effects that you should be aware of, especially if you are sensitive to stimulants. Side effects of Adderall include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  • Irregular heartbeat<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Elevated heart rate<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Increased blood pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Restlessness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Dry mouth<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Diarrhea, constipation, nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Headache<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Weight loss<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Mood changes<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Anxiety<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Dizziness<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    The less common side effects of Adderall include but are not limited to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    • Seizures<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Eyesight instability<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Urinary tract infection<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Fever<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Stroke<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Heart attack<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

      Warnings and Drug Interactions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      Dependency warning: <\/strong>As a Schedule II controlled substance, Adderall carries a high risk for addiction, especially if it\u2019s misused. Do not take Adderall more often or in higher doses than prescribed, as this increases the risk of developing dependency. Side effects of long-term Adderall misuse include insomnia, severe weight loss, high blood pressure, paranoia, and more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      The best way to avoid an Adderall dependency is to take your medication exactly as prescribed, and under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Your provider can help you monitor how you\u2019re responding to the Adderall, adjust your dosage, or help you taper off of it should you show signs of dependency.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      There are several drug interactions you should be aware of before taking Adderall. For more detailed information, read the accompanying literature packaged with your medication or speak with a licensed physician who can explain further. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Speak to your ADHD healthcare provider if you are taking or have taken the following medications in the past:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n
      • SSRI & SNRI drugs<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Blood pressure medication<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Acid reflux medication<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Blood thinners<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Cold or allergy medication<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Opioids<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Seizure medication<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

        If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction (hives, itching, trouble breathing) seek emergency medical attention. Call a doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \n
        • Heart problems like chest pain, shortness of breath<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Signs of psychosis-like hallucinations or paranoia<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Circulatory problems (numbness, pain, cold fingers & toes)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Seizures<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Muscle twitches<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Vision changes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

          Do not stop taking Adderall without speaking to your physician first. Abruptly discontinuing Adderall can induce withdrawal symptoms, which can negatively impact your health. <\/p>\n\n\n\t\t

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