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Compare Focalin vs. Desoxyn

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

Key takeaways

Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin, Focalin XR) and methamphetamine (Desoxyn) are both stimulant medications used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, they have some key differences. Dexmethylphenidate is more commonly prescribed and is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, while methamphetamine is rarely prescribed due to its higher risk of addiction and dependence. Dexmethylphenidate works by raising levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, whereas methamphetamine affects norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. Methamphetamine is only available as a tablet, while dexmethylphenidate comes in both tablet and capsule forms. Both medications can cause serious side effects like heart problems and changes in behavior, but methamphetamine has additional risks such as seizures and is not safe for use during pregnancy.

  • Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)
    Methamphetamine (Desoxyn)
  • Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)
    Methamphetamine (Desoxyn)

  • Summary of Focalin vs. Desoxyn

    Summary for Stimulant
    Prescription only

    Dexmethylphenidate (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 Stimulant
    Prescription only

    Methamphetamine (Desoxyn) is a stimulant medication. It's FDA-approved to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but it's not commonly prescribed because other options are preferred. Some side effects of methamphetamine (Desoxyn) include restlessness, high blood pressure, and low appetite. Methamphetamine (Desoxyn) is a controlled substance with a risk of addiction and dependence.

  • Indications of Focalin vs. Desoxyn

    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 Focalin vs. Desoxyn

    Pros and Const for Stimulant
    Pros
    •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 generic
    Cons
    •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 liquid
    Pros and Const for Stimulant
    Pros
    •Possible option for ADHD when other medications haven't worked
    •Taken by mouth
    •Available as a generic medication
    Cons
    •Only available as a tablet
    •Might need to take twice daily
    •Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding

  • Common Side Effects of Focalin vs. Desoxyn

    Common Side Effects for

    Immediate-release tablet Age 6 to 17 years:

    •Stomach pain (15%)
    •Nausea (9%)
    •Low appetite (6%)

    Extended-release capsule Age 6 to 17 years:

    •Difficulty sleeping (up to 17%)
    •Vomiting (up to 9%)
    •Low appetite (up to 7%)

    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
    •High blood pressure
    •Fast heartbeat
    •Tremors
    •Trouble sleeping
    •Dizziness
    •Diarrhea or constipation
    •Low appetite
    •Dry mouth
    •Weight loss

  • Warnings of Focalin vs. Desoxyn

    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 interactions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Addiction, misuse, and dependence
    •Serious heart problems
    •Changes in behavior or thoughts
    •Seizures
    •Blood circulation problem (Raynaud's phenomenon)
    •Slowed growth in children
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Worsening of motor and verbal tics

  • Prices with our coupons for Focalin vs. Desoxyn

    Learn more about Focalin
    Learn more about Methamphetamine

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