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Compare Lexapro vs. Adderall

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

Key takeaways

Escitalopram (Lexapro) and dextroamphetamine / amphetamine salts (Adderall) are both medications that can affect brain chemicals, but they are used for different conditions. Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), while Adderall is a stimulant used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Escitalopram is taken once daily, available in both tablet and liquid forms, and is not a controlled substance. In contrast, Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance, typically taken multiple times a day, and is only available in tablet form. Adderall is also available in an extended-release form (Adderall XR) that is usually taken once daily. Common side effects of escitalopram include nausea and trouble sleeping, whereas Adderall can cause trouble sleeping and loss of appetite. Both can interact with other medications, but Adderall has a higher risk of misuse and dependence. Additionally, escitalopram can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly, and Adderall also requires careful dose adjustments to avoid withdrawal effects.

  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
    Adderall
  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
    Adderall

  • Summary of Lexapro vs. Adderall

    Summary for SSRI
    Prescription only

    Escitalopram, also known by its brand name, Lexapro, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It's a first-choice antidepressant to treat depression and anxiety in adults and children. The medication is available as a tablet and oral solution, in both brand and generic forms. A dose is typically taken by mouth once per day. Some common side effects include nausea, trouble sleeping (insomnia), and dizziness.

    Summary for Stimulant
    Prescription only

    Adderall 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 Lexapro vs. Adderall

    Indications for
    •Depression in people ages 12 years and older
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in people ages 7 years and older
    Indications for
    •Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
    •Narcolepsy (daytime sleepiness)

  • Pros and Cons of Lexapro vs. Adderall

    Pros and Const for SSRI
    Pros
    •First-choice medication for anxiety and depression
    •Only need to take it once a day
    •Generally has fewer side effects compared to other antidepressants
    •Can be taken with or without food
    Cons
    •Can take up to 2 months before you feel the the full benefits
    •Risk of certain sexual problems
    •Can raise your risk for bleeds
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it
    Pros and Const for Stimulant
    Pros
    •First-choice option for ADHD in children and adults
    •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 ADHD
    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 available as a liquid or patch form (unlike methylphenidate (Ritalin))

  • Common Side Effects of Lexapro vs. Adderall

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (24%)
    •Nausea (15-18%)
    •Ejaculation problems (9-14%)
    •Sleepiness (6-13%)
    •Trouble sleeping (9-12%)
    •Dry mouth (6-9%)
    •Diarrhea (8%)
    •Tiredness (5-8%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Upset stomach
    •Lower appetite
    •Weight loss
    •Nervousness
    •Changes in mood
    •Trouble sleeping

  • Warnings of Lexapro vs. Adderall

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Stopping escitalopram (Lexapro) too suddenly
    •Risk of bleeding
    •Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
    •Glaucoma
    •Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
    •Low blood sodium levels
    •Sexual problems
    Common 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 interactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Lexapro vs. Adderall

    Learn more about Escitalopram
    Learn more about Adderall

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