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Compare Ritalin vs. Dexedrine

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

Key takeaways

Ritalin (methylphenidate) and Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) are part of a group of medications called stimulants. They treat ADHD and narcolepsy. While they’re both stimulants, they are different types: Ritalin is a methylphenidate and Dexedrine is an amphetamine. Ritalin is a short-acting, or immediate-release (IR) amphetamine. Ritalin also comes in an extended-release (ER) version (Concerta, Ritalin LA). Dexedrine is an IR medication, and it comes in an ER form (Dexedrine Spansule) as well. Ritalin may be taken 2 to 3 times a day, while Dexedrine is taken 1 to 2 times a day usually. They’re both controlled substances, which means they can lead to dependence and misuse. Taking them only as prescribed can help decrease these risks.

  • Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
    Dextroamphetamine
  • Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
    Dextroamphetamine

  • Summary of Ritalin vs. Dexedrine

    Summary for Stimulant
    Prescription only

    Methylphenidate hydrochloride (Ritalin) is a stimulant medication that's used for treating attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (daytime sleepiness) in adults and children ages 6 years and older. It works by raising the levels of certain chemicals in your brain to keep you focused and awake. The dosage is typically 2 to 3 times per day because it's an immediate-release form of methylphenidate. Side effects of this medication include low appetite, nervousness, and trouble sleeping.

    Summary for Stimulant
    Prescription only

    Dextroamphetamine is used for the treatment of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can also be used to treat uncontrollable daytime sleepiness (narcolepsy). Some side effects of the medication include difficulty sleeping, restlessness, and loss of appetite (that might lead to possible weight loss).

  • Indications of Ritalin vs. Dexedrine

    Indications for
    •Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
    •Narcolepsy (daytime sleepiness)
    Indications for
    •Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
    •Narcolepsy (extreme daytime sleepiness)

  • Pros and Cons of Ritalin vs. Dexedrine

    Pros and Const for Stimulant
    Pros
    •First-choice medication to treat ADHD in adults and children.
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    •Available as an oral tablet, chewable tablet, and liquid
    Cons
    •Is a controlled substance because it has a risk of misuse and dependence
    •Shouldn't stop taking this medication suddenly without talking to your provider first because of greater risk for mood changes
    •Can negatively affect growth in children
    Pros and Const for Stimulant
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    •Available in immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules
    •Available as a liquid solution if you have difficulty swallowing pills
    •Tablets and solution are okay to use in children as young as 3 years old
    Cons
    •Has a risk of misuse and dependency
    •A controlled medication, so there are special requirements for getting the prescription filled
    •Can cause trouble sleeping if taken late in the day
    •Not the best option if you have heart problems

  • Common Side Effects of Ritalin vs. Dexedrine

    Common Side Effects for

    Side effects might differ depending on the formulation. In general:

    •Headache
    •Anxiety
    •Trouble sleeping
    •Low appetite
    •Weight loss
    Common Side Effects for
    •Fast heartbeat
    •Loss of appetite
    •Stomach upset
    •Dry mouth
    •Dizziness
    •Headache
    •Tremors
    •Trouble sleeping

  • Warnings of Ritalin vs. Dexedrine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Misuse and dependence
    •Serious heart problems
    •Changes in behavior or thoughts
    •Prolonged and painful erection
    •Blood circulation problem (Raynaud's phenomenon)
    •Slowed growth in children
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Drug interactions
    •Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - chewable tablets only
    Common Side Effects for
    •Misuse and dependence
    •Serious heart-related problems
    •Aggressive behavior and psychosis
    •Slowed growth in children
    •Seizures
    •Blood circulation problems (such as Raynaud's phenomenon)
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Interactions with other medications

  • Prices with our coupons for Ritalin vs. Dexedrine

    Learn more about Methylphenidate
    Learn more about Dextroamphetamine

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