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Compare Concerta vs. Adderall XR

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

Key takeaways

Methylphenidate extended-release (ER) and Adderall XR (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts) are both stimulant medications used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They work by increasing levels of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin in the brain. However, they differ in several ways. Methylphenidate ER is available in various forms, such as tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and liquid, while Adderall XR is available as capsules. Methylphenidate ER is often preferred for children, whereas Adderall XR is commonly used for adults. The typical starting dose for methylphenidate ER is one pill once daily in the morning, while Adderall XR dosing varies by age, with adults typically starting at 20 mg daily. Both medications have a risk of misuse and dependency. Both medications can cause decreased appetite and weight loss, touble sleeping, headaches, and stomach pain. Additionally, both medications can interact with blood pressure medications and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

  • Methylphenidate er
    Adderall xr
  • Methylphenidate er
    Adderall xr

  • Summary of Concerta vs. Adderall XR

    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.

    Summary for Stimulant
    Prescription only

    Adderall XR is the extended-release version of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salt combo. It's a stimulant used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in people 6 years and older. It comes as a capsule that you take once a day in the morning. The prescriber can adjust the dosage depending on how well it helps you focus and if you have side effects that bother you. These side effects can include low appetite, stomach pain, and trouble sleeping. It's a controlled substance because of its high risk of misuse and dependency. Adderall XR is available as a brand-name medication and a generic.

  • Indications of Concerta vs. Adderall XR

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

  • Pros and Cons of Concerta vs. Adderall XR

    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
    Pros and Const for Stimulant
    Pros
    •A first-choice medication for ADHD
    •Only taken once a day
    •Starts working within 45 minutes and lasts for up to 12 hours
    •Can open capsules and mix contents with applesauce if you have trouble swallowing pills whole
    Cons
    •Has a risk of misuse and dependency
    •A controlled medication, so there are special requirements for getting the prescription filled
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop the medication too suddenly
    •Not the best choice for people with heart conditions

  • Common Side Effects of Concerta vs. Adderall XR

    Common Side Effects for

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

    •Headache
    •Low appetite
    •Stomach pain
    •Trouble sleeping
    Common Side Effects for

    Children:

    •Low appetite
    •Trouble sleeping
    •Stomach pain

    Adults:

    •Dry mouth
    •Low appetite
    •Trouble sleeping
    •Headache
    •Feeling nervous
    •Weight loss

  • Warnings of Concerta vs. Adderall XR

    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
    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk of misuse and addiction
    •Risks to people with serious heart conditions
    •Higher blood pressure and faster heart rate
    •Strange thoughts or behaviors
    •Slow growth in children
    •Seizures
    •Problems with blood flow in the arms and legs, including Raynaud's phenomenon
    •Serotonin syndrome

  • Prices with our coupons for Concerta vs. Adderall XR

    Learn more about Methylphenidate er
    Learn more about Adderall xr

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