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Compare Azstarys vs. Concerta

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Azstarys (serdexmethylphenidate/dexmethylphenidate) and methylphenidate extended-release (ER) are both stimulant medications used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children aged 6 years and older. While they share this primary indication, Azstarys is a combination of serdexmethylphenidate, a prodrug of dexmethylphenidate, and dexmethylphenidate itself, allowing it to start working quickly and last throughout the day. In contrast, methylphenidate ER is a single active ingredient that typically starts working within 2 hours. Azstarys is only available as a brand-name medication, whereas methylphenidate ER is available in various formulations and some generic options, making it potentially more affordable. Both medications have similar side effects, such as low appetite and trouble sleeping, but Azstarys may also cause nausea and vomiting more frequently. Additionally, both medications carry risks of misuse and dependence, and they can interact with other medications, especially monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and carry a warning for serotonin syndrome when combined with other serotonin-boosting medications.

  • azstarys (serdexmethylphenidate / dexmethylphenidate)
    Methylphenidate er
  • azstarys (serdexmethylphenidate / dexmethylphenidate)
    Methylphenidate er

  • Summary of Azstarys vs. Concerta

    Summary for Stimulant
    Prescription only

    Azstarys (serdexmethylphenidate / dexmethylphenidate) is a combination stimulant medication that's used for attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It has two ingredients: serdexmethylphenidate (an extended-release stimulant) and dexmethylphenidate (an immediate-release stimulant). This combination of ingredients allows Azstarys (serdexmethylphenidate / dexmethylphenidate) to start working quickly and also last throughout the day. Common side effects of the medication include low appetite, keeping you awake at night, and raised blood pressure and heart rate. Azstarys (serdexmethylphenidate / dexmethylphenidate) can be used for adults and children 6 years and older.

    Summary for Stimulant
    Prescription only

    Methylphenidate extended-release (ER) is a first-choice option for people with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This once-daily medication can start to work within 2 hours and can last throughout the day. Methylphenidate ER can cause difficulty sleeping and a loss of appetite. It also has a potential risk of misuse and dependency and is thus a controlled substance.

  • Indications of Azstarys vs. Concerta

    Indications for
    •ADHD in adults and children ages 6 years and older
    Indications for
    •Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

  • Pros and Cons of Azstarys vs. Concerta

    Pros and Const for Stimulant
    Pros
    •Taken once per day
    •Can take with or without food
    •Can open capsules and sprinkle contents into water or applesauce
    •Starts to work within 30 minutes and lasts throughout the day
    Cons
    •Has risks of misuse and dependence
    •Is a controlled medication, so there are special requirements to get the prescription filled
    •Dose needs to be adjusted slowly to avoid side effects
    •Available as a brand-name medication only
    Pros and Const for Stimulant
    Pros
    •First-choice medication for ADHD
    •Taken only once per day
    •Available in many different forms (e.g., pills, chewable tablet, liquid)
    •Some brands available in lower-cost generic form
    •Can be prescribed for children as young as 6 years old
    Cons
    •Has a risk of misuse and dependency
    •A controlled medication, so there are special requirements for getting the prescription filled
    •Dose needs to be raised and lowered slowly to avoid bothersome side effects like distress and trouble sleeping
    •Not the best choice for pregnant or breastfeeding females or people with heart conditions
    •Can interact with certain blood pressure medications and depression medications

  • Common Side Effects of Azstarys vs. Concerta

    Common Side Effects for

    Reported in at least 5% of people in studies:

    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Indigestion
    •Vomiting
    •Low appetite
    •Weight loss
    •Difficulty sleeping
    •Dizziness
    •Anxiety
    •Sudden changes in emotions
    •High blood pressure
    •Fast heart rate
    Common Side Effects for

    Side effects might differ depending on the formulation and brand. In general:

    •Headache
    •Low appetite
    •Stomach pain
    •Trouble sleeping

  • Warnings of Azstarys vs. Concerta

    Common Side Effects for
    •Misuse and dependence
    •Serious heart-related problems
    •Aggressive behavior and psychosis
    •Prolonged and painful erection
    •Blood circulation problem (Raynaud's phenomenon)
    •Slowed growth in children
    Common Side Effects for
    •Misuse and dependence
    •Serious heart problems
    •Changes in behavior or thoughts
    •Prolonged and painful erection
    •Blood circulation problem (Raynaud's phenomenon)
    •Slowed growth in children
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Drug interactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Azstarys vs. Concerta

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    Learn more about Methylphenidate er

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