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Compare Focalin vs. Adderall XR

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

Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)
Adderall xr
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)
Adderall xr

Summary of Focalin vs. Adderall XR

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

Adderall XR is a first-choice medication used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It contains the extended-release (XR) forms of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts. This medication is typically taken once per day and lasts throughout the day, but it's common to have trouble sleeping and a loss of appetite. It's a controlled substance because of its high risk of misuse and dependency.

Indications of Focalin vs. Adderall XR

Indications for
•Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Indications for
•Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Pros and Cons of Focalin vs. Adderall XR

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
•First-choice medication for ADHD
•Starts working within an hour after taking, and effect lasts up to 12 hours (Adderall XR brand) or 16 hours (Mydayis brand)
•Only taken once per day
•Capsules can be opened and mixed with applesauce if you have trouble swallowing medications.
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 side effects and withdrawal symptoms
•Not the best choice for pregnant or breastfeeding females or people with heart conditions

Common Side Effects of Focalin vs. Adderall XR

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

Children

•Poor appetite
•Trouble sleeping
•Stomach pain

Adults

•Dry mouth
•Poor appetite
•Trouble sleeping
•Headache
•Nervousness
•Weight loss

Warnings of Focalin vs. Adderall XR

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
•Misuse and dependence
•Serious heart problems
•Aggressive behavior and psychosis
•Slowed growth in children
•Vision problems
•Seizures
•Blood circulation problem (such as Raynaud's phenomenon)
•Serotonin syndrome
•Drug interactions

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