Compare Focalin vs. Adderall
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) and Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) are both stimulant medications used to treat ADHD (attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder). But they’re different types of stimulants: Focalin is a methylphenidate and Adderall is an amphetamine. Focalin comes in immediate-release (Focalin IR) and extended-release (Focalin XR) forms. Adderall comes in IR and ER forms. Typically, Adderall is a first-choice medication for ADHD in adults. But methylphenidates are typically preferred for children. Focalin and Adderall have similar side effects, such as stomach pain, low appetite, and trouble sleeping. Both medications are controlled substances, which means they can lead to dependence and misuse. Taking them only as prescribed can help decrease these risks.
- Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)Adderall
- Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)Adderall
Summary of Focalin vs. Adderall
Summary for StimulantPrescription onlyDexmethylphenidate (Focalin, Focalin XR) is a stimulant medication that's used for treating attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. It's thought to work by balancing certain chemicals in your brain to help you focus. This medication is available as an immediate-release tablet that you take twice per day and an extended-release capsule you take once per day. Side effects can include stomach upset and nervousness. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms if it's suddenly stopped after long-term use. Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) is available as both a brand-name and lower-cost generic medication.
Summary for StimulantPrescription onlyAdderall is a stimulant medication that's used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy in adults and children. It contains the instant-release (IR) forms of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts. Adderall is available as a brand-name and lower-cost generic tablet that's taken by mouth. Your psychiatrist will adjust the dosage for you based on how well the medication works for you. Common side effects include trouble sleeping and loss of appetite.
Indications of Focalin vs. Adderall
Indications for•Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)Indications for•Narcolepsy (daytime sleepiness)Pros and Cons of Focalin vs. Adderall
Pros and Const for StimulantPros•Works well to treat ADHD in children and adults•Available as immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules for a more flexible dosing schedule•Available as a lower-cost genericCons•A controlled substance because of the risk for misuse and dependency•Might cause trouble sleeping if you take too late in the day•Not the best option if you have heart problems•Not available as a liquidPros and Const for StimulantPros•Starts working within an hour after taking•Available as a lower-cost generic•Can use together with behavioral counseling or other non-medication therapies to treat ADHDCons•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 side effects and withdrawal symptoms•Not available as a liquid or patch form (unlike methylphenidate (Ritalin))Common Side Effects of Focalin vs. Adderall
Common Side Effects forImmediate-release tablet Age 6 to 17 years:
Extended-release capsule Age 6 to 17 years:
Age 17 to 60 years:
•Headache (up to 39%)•Dry mouth (up to 20%)•Anxiety (up to 11%)•Indigestion (up to 9%)•Throat pain (up to 7%)Common Side Effects for•Upset stomach•Lower appetite•Weight loss•Nervousness•Changes in mood•Trouble sleepingWarnings of Focalin vs. Adderall
Common Side Effects for•Misuse and dependence•Serious heart problems•Changes in behavior or thoughts•Prolonged and painful erection•Problems with blood circulation (Raynaud's phenomenon)•Slowed growth in children•Serotonin syndrome•Drug interactionsCommon Side Effects for•Misuse and addiction•Dependence and withdrawal•Serious heart problems•Aggressive behavior and psychosis•Slowed growth in children•Seizures•Blood circulation problems (such as Raynaud's phenomenon)•Serotonin syndrome•Drug interactionsPrices with our coupons for Focalin vs. Adderall
Browse medications
View AllResearch prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.