Compare Kapvay vs. Desoxyn

Clonidine ER (clonidine) and methamphetamine (Desoxyn) are both medications used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in people ages 6 years and older. However, they belong to different medication classes and work in different ways. Clonidine ER is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist and is a non-stimulant option for ADHD, while methamphetamine is a stimulant that raises levels of norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine in the brain. Clonidine ER is typically taken twice a day, and methamphetamine can be taken once or twice a day. Clonidine ER is available only as a generic, while methamphetamine is available as a brand name and generic. Common side effects of clonidine ER include sleepiness and headache, whereas methamphetamine can cause high blood pressure, fast heartbeat, and low appetite. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance due to its risk of addiction and dependence, while clonidine ER is not a controlled substance. Both medications can interact with medications like tricyclic antidepressants and blood pressure medications, but methamphetamine can also interact with medications that affect serotonin levels, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome.