What is the difference between adderall and concerta

Concerta is taken once daily with or without food. Adderall contains a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts. It is approved to treat ADHD and narcolepsy in adults and children aged 3 years and older. Adderall is available as a generic drug and is usually taken every four to six hours. Although they work in similar ways, Concerta and Adderall contain different active ingredients. Concerta comes as an extended-release tablet while Adderall comes as an immediate-release tablet.

Some studies suggest that Concerta is better for children and adolescents while Adderall is better for adults. Concerta may also be preferred for its once-daily dosing.

There are no adequate studies that say that Concerta or Adderall is safe in women who are pregnant. Because of the risk of birth defects, these drugs should only be used if the benefits outweigh the risks. Talk to your doctor if you are considering an ADHD medication while pregnant or breastfeeding.

It is not generally recommended to drink alcohol while using Concerta or Adderall. While it may be fine in moderation, stimulant drugs can compound the effects of alcohol or vice versa. Alcohol use is also strongly associated with abuse and dependence with Concerta or Adderall. However, because Concerta contains an extended-release version of methylphenidate, the equivalent dose may not be as clear-cut.

Talk to your healthcare provider about switching ADHD medications. As a CNS stimulant, Concerta can help increase energy levels as well as overall wakefulness and alertness. Methylphenidate is sometimes given as treatment for narcolepsy to help fight excessive drowsiness during the day. However, this effect may also lead to insomnia in some people.

The active ingredient of Concerta has been studied for the treatment of depression. One study found that methylphenidate helped elevated mood and feelings of well-being in older patients with depression. In some cases, Concerta may be used off-label to treat depression, especially in those who have both ADHD and depression.

Your doctor may prescribe Concerta over Adderall for any number of reasons. Concerta is often prescribed for adults and children who prefer a once-daily pill. Skip to main content Search for a topic or drug. Concerta vs. Adderall: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you. By Gerardo Sison, Pharm. Want the best price on Adderall? Want the best price on Concerta? Top Reads in Drug vs. Toujeo vs Lantus: Main Differences and S Dulera vs Advair: Main Differences and S Suboxone vs Methadone: Main Differences Looking for a prescription?

Search now! Type your drug name. Depression , anxiety , or bipolar disorder associated with ADHD. For instance, both drugs can slow growth in children. If your doctor sees negative effects, they may take your child off the drug for a period of time. If you have side effects from one drug, call your doctor right away. Your doctor may change your medication or adjust your dosage. Common side effects of Concerta and Adderall include:. Concerta may also cause painful erections that last several hours in men.

Perhaps the biggest difference between the drugs is who should avoid each one. There are many drugs and health conditions that can change the way the medications work. For this reason, you may not be able to take one or both of the drugs. Both drugs can also affect your blood pressure and how your heart works. They may cause sudden death in people with undiagnosed heart problems.

Your doctor may check your blood pressure and heart function during treatment with these drugs. Talk to your doctor to learn more. Also, both medications are pregnancy category C drugs. Concerta and Adderall are both brand-name drugs. Brand-name drugs tend to cost more than their generic versions.

In general, Adderall extended-release is more expensive than Concerta, according to a review by Baylor College of Medicine. However, the generic form of Adderall is less expensive than the generic form of Concerta. Drug prices depend on many factors, though. Insurance coverage, geographic location, dosage, and other factors can all affect the price you pay. You can check GoodRx. Some people may respond better to one drug than the other.

Tell them about all medications, vitamins, or supplements you take. This will help your doctor prescribe the right drug for you. Acid reflux happens when your stomach contents rise into your esophagus. Learn which foods you should avoid to prevent reflux. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder commonly associated with children, but approximately 4 percent of American adults as many as 9 million people ….

It is also vital for a person to tell their doctor about any other medications they are taking in case Concerta or Adderall may interact with them. Stimulants such as Concerta and Adderall can be effective treatments for ADHD in the short-term, especially when combined with behavioral therapies.

However, more research is necessary to understand the long-term effects these medications may have on a person. It is essential for a person to have regular checkups with their doctor when they are taking Concerta or Adderall.

There are risks and dangers to drinking alcohol alongside Adderall. Here, we look at the potential risks of combining alcohol and adderall. ADHD is a behavioral disorder in which a person has a limited attention span and bouts of hyperactivity. Both drugs are similar, but there are some differences in how they…. Symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD are often managed with medication.

It is important to know whether this medication is…. ADHD and auditory processing disorder APD often occur together, and have some similar symptoms, making diagnosis difficult. Learn more. Concerta vs. Adderall: What's the difference? Medically reviewed by Dena Westphalen, Pharm. Adderall Who should take them? Combining Side effects Dosage Complications Outlook Concerta and Adderall are stimulant medications that a doctor may prescribe for a person with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.

Who should take them? Can a person take them together? Side effects.