Ritalin vs. Dexedrine for ADHD and Narcolepsy: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

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)

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Dextroamphetamine

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Summary for Ritalin

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.

Indications for Ritalin

Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Narcolepsy (daytime sleepiness)

Pros and Cons for Ritalin

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

Common Side Effects for Ritalin

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

Headache
Anxiety
Trouble sleeping
Low appetite
Weight loss

Warnings for Ritalin

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

Summary for Dexedrine

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 for Dexedrine

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

Pros and Cons for Dexedrine

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