Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Sunosi (solriamfetol) and Adderall (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts) are both used to treat narcolepsy, a condition that causes excessive daytime sleepiness. However, they belong to different medication classes. Sunosi is a dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, while Adderall is a stimulant. Sunosi is also approved for treating excessive daytime sleepiness due to obstructive sleep apnea, whereas Adderall is also approved for attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Sunosi is taken once daily when you first wake up, while Adderall is typically taken 1 to 2 times per day. Sunosi is only available as a brand-name medication, whereas Adderall is available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of Sunosi include headache, loss of appetite, and nausea, while Adderall can cause upset stomach, trouble sleeping, and loss of appetite. Both medications can raise blood pressure and lead to misuse and dependency. Both medications can also increase your risk for serotonin syndrome, especially if taken with other medications that affect serotonin.
Sunosi (solriamfetol)
Adderall
Sunosi (solriamfetol)
Adderall
Summary of Sunosi vs. Adderall
Summary for Dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor
Prescription only
Sunosi (solriamfetol) is used to improve wakefulness in adults with narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea. Sunosi (solriamfetol) belongs to the drug class called dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, and it's currently only available as a brand-name medication. Sunosi (solriamfetol) is available as tablets that are taken by mouth once daily when you first wake up. Common side effects include headache, a smaller appetite, and nausea.
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.
Note: Side effect percentages were reported from studies of adults with narcolepsy. These percentages might differ slightly for adults with obstructive sleep apnea.
Common Side Effects for
•Upset stomach
•Lower appetite
•Weight loss
•Nervousness
•Changes in mood
•Trouble sleeping
Warnings of Sunosi vs. Adderall
Common Side Effects for
•High blood pressure and fast heart rate
•Symptoms of mental health 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)