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Mydayis vs. Adderall

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

Key takeaways

Mydayis (mixed amphetamine salts extended-release) and Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) are both stimulant medications used to treat ADHD, but they have some key differences. Mydayis is an extended-release (ER) form of Adderall that you take once a day, and its effects can last up to 16 hours. In contrast, Adderall is an immediate-release form that you might need to take multiple times a day, with each dose lasting about 4 to 6 hours. Mydayis is not recommended for children under 6 years old, whereas Adderall can be used in children as young as 3 years old. Both medications can cause side effects like trouble sleeping and loss of appetite. Both medications are available as generics.

Summary for Mydayis

Prescription only

Mydayis is a stimulant medication for attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It contains an extended-release amphetamine salt combo (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts). Mydayis comes as a capsule for people 13 years of age and older. It's taken by mouth once a day in the morning after waking up. The dosage can be adjusted based on how well the medication works for you. Common side effects include low appetite, trouble sleeping, and dry mouth. It's a controlled substance because of its risk of misuse and dependency. Mydayis is a brand-name and generic medication.

Indications for Mydayis

Pros and Cons for Mydayis

Pros

  • A first-choice medication for ADHD
  • Taken by mouth once a day with or without food
  • Starts to work within 45 minutes and can last for up to 16 hours
  • Can open capsule and sprinkle contents on applesauce if you have trouble swallowing pills whole

Cons

  • Has a risk of misuse and dependency
  • A controlled medication, so there are special requirements for getting the prescription filled
  • Need to take gradually lower doses before stopping to prevent withdrawal symptoms
  • Not the best choice for people with heart conditions

Common Side Effects for Mydayis

Children:

  • Low appetite (22%)

Adults:

  • Trouble sleeping (31%)
  • Low appetite (30%)
  • Dry mouth (23%)

Warnings for Mydayis

  • Risk of misuse and addiction
  • Risks to people with serious heart conditions
  • Higher blood pressure and faster heart rate
  • Strange thoughts or behaviors
  • Slow growth in children
  • Problems with blood flow in the arms and legs, including Raynaud's phenomenon
  • Seizures
  • Serotonin syndrome

Summary for Adderall

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 for Adderall

Pros and Cons for Adderall

Pros

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 for Adderall

  • Upset stomach
  • Lower appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Nervousness
  • Changes in mood
  • Trouble sleeping

Warnings for Adderall

  • 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 Mydayis vs. Adderall

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Amphetamine Salt Combo XR (Mydayis)30 capsules / 50mg
$92.45$373.38
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Amphetamine Salt Combo30 tablets / 20mg
$16.99$50.44
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