Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common mental disorder, affecting over 8 million adults in the US. For those in need of treatment, a doctor may prescribe Adderall or Focalin to manage ADHD. Both drugs are central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, which impact brain chemical levels and help people with ADHD function optimally.
This article will examine the difference between Adderall vs Focalin.
What is Focalin?
Focalin is a prescription medication containing dexmethylphenidate, used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by increasing focus and reducing impulsivity.
Focalin is the brand name for dexmethylphenidate, a man-made stimulant drug that is twice as powerful as its counterpart methylphenidate-also known as Ritalin. It is often prescribed to treat ADHD. Focalin was approved by the FDA for use in 2001, and an extended-release version (XR) was approved in 2005.
Side effects of Focalin can include:
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness
- Weight loss
- Aggressiveness
- Anxiety
- Depression
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription medication used primarily to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It helps increase focus, attention, and impulse control by affecting certain chemicals in the brain.
Adderall contains the active ingredient dexmethylphenidate, but in lesser amounts than Focalin. It consists of 75% dexmethylphenidate and 25% levoamphetamine. Adderall is known to be made of mixed amphetamine salts, and was approved for use back in 1996. Like Focalin, Adderall can be bought in short-release or extended-release capsules.
Side effects of Adderall can include:
- Sweating
- Rapid breathing
- Increased heart rate
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Loss of appetite
- Dry mouth
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
Focalin XR Vs Adderall XR
Both Focalin and Adderall come in similar dosages, but Adderall is available in more varied dosages than Focalin.
These are the dosages available for each medication:
- Focalin: 2.5mg, 5mg and 10mg immediate-release tablets
5mg to 35mg extended-release (XR) capsules
- Adderall: 5mg-35mg immediate-release tablets
5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 20mg, 25mg and 30mg extended-release capsules
The dosage is set according to the person’s age, weight and level of ADHD, and will therefore vary from person to person.
The average initial dose of Adderall XR for adults is 5-10mg, taken 1-3 times daily. The initial dose of Focalin for adults is 2.5mg twice daily. Always consult with a doctor before taking Focalin or Adderall.
The effects of the extended-release capsules of Focalin and Adderall can last up to 12 hours, as opposed to the effects of immediate release tablets, which wear off after just 4 hours. Hence, the extended-release forms of both drugs only need to be taken once a day.
Is Focalin More Powerful Than Adderall?
No, Focalin is not more powerful than Adderall. Both medications are central nervous system stimulants and are similarly effective in treating ADHD. The potency of each drug largely depends on the dosage prescribed, as both work by affecting brain chemicals that help improve focus and impulse control.
Difference Between Focalin and Adderall
The main difference between Focalin and Adderall is that Focalin’s main ingredient, dexmethylphenidate, targets dopamine, while Adderall’s amphetamine salts target serotonin. (Both dopamine and serotonin are neurotransmitters which assist with the lack of focus in people with ADHD.)
Researchers have found that Focalin is better suited for children and adolescents, while Adderall is more effective in treating adults. Currently, Adderall is being prescribed more and is very popular in ADHD treatment. It’s always best to consult with a medical professional to determine which medication is best suited for you or your child, as it usually depends on the age, medication history, and overall health of the person.
If someone is looking into switching from Adderall to Focalin or vice versa, the process should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider. They will likely prescribe a lower dosage at first, gradually increasing it in accordance with the body’s reactions. This way, they can monitor for any possible adverse effects.
Focalin Vs Adderall Side Effects
New medications can bring new side effects, especially when being used for the first time. Since Focalin and Adderall are both stimulants, they produce similar side effects. These include:
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Irregular heartbeat
- Unintentional muscle movements
- Behavioral changes
More severe side effects of either drug include:
Higher doses always increase the likelihood of developing side effects. Moreover, both Focalin and Adderall are Schedule II controlled substances, which means that they carry a high potential for dependence and abuse. Taking either of these drugs for an extended period of time can lead to tolerance and psychological dependence, which means that quitting suddenly can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. Always consult with a doctor if you feel that your dosage should be increased, rather than making the decision on your own.
Focalin Vs Adderall Weight Loss
According to Drugs.com, Adderall is more popular among college students as a method of weight loss, versus its traditional use in treating ADHD. This is because Adderall decreases appetite, which leads to weight loss. Moreover, since Adderall has the power to improve one’s focus and attention span, teens also tend to misuse the drug to improve their performance in college, such as for test-taking and studying.
If Adderall or Focalin is misused over long periods, tolerance, dependence, and then addiction can develop – potentially leading to overdose. Addiction and overdose can lead to permanent organ damage, brain damage and/or serious mental issues. It’s vital to adhere to a doctor’s guidance, as misuse can also exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD, making the condition more difficult to treat.
Treatment For Focalin or Adderall Addiction
If you or a loved one is suffering from Focalin or Adderall addiction, our team at Avenues Recovery is here to help you.
The first stage of the recovery process is detoxification, which is when all harmful substances are removed from the body. This can be a painful process, as withdrawal symptoms can make it seem unbearable or even impossible to manage. This is why it’s important to undergo the detox in a licensed detox center, where constant medical supervision is available. This will ensure the comfort and safety of all patients, and medication can be administered and vitals monitored on a constant basis.
The second step of the treatment process is participating in therapy sessions to determine the underlying causes of addiction, and to learn healthier coping mechanisms to deal with challenges and triggers. There are several therapy options that one could choose from: group therapy, individual therapy and more.
Contact us to learn more about our programs and to find out which of our facilities are closest to you. You can find your way home, starting today!