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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 26, 2024.Focalin and Adderall are both used for ADHD, but is one more effective than the other? Focalin contains dexmethylphenidate whereas Adderall contains a mixture of amphetamine salts (MAS). Both have a high potential for abuse and dependence, although the risk may be perceived as higher with Adderall because it is more popular; however, this does not mean Focalin is less likely to cause tolerance or dependence.Adderall IR has more dosage options than Focalin IR, although Focalin IR is usually cheaper. Focalin XR has more dosage options than Adderall XR, although Adderall XR is usually cheaper.What is Dexmethylphenidate?Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin) is a man-made stimulant that is derived from methylphenidate (which is marketed under brand names such as Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate, and others). Dexmethylphenidate is the more active part of methylphenidate, which is why Focalin is considered twice as strong, on a mg for mg basis, as drugs such as Ritalin and Concerta. Focalin was first approved in 2001, although an extended-release form was not approved until 2005.What is in Adderall?The mixed amphetamine salts contained in Adderall are dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate; often abbreviated to 75% dextroamphetamine + 25% levoamphetamine. Adderall is also a man-made stimulant and was first approved in 1996. Both Focalin and Adderall are approved to treat ADHD, although Adderall is also approved to treat narcolepsy.How do Focalin and Adderall work in ADHD?Although Focalin is not an amphetamine and has a different mechanism of action to Adderall, it bears some structural resemblance to amphetamines and both drugs are thought to work in ADHD by increasing the concentration of two neurotransmitters (dopamine and norepinephrine) in the brain.FormulationsImmediate-release (IR) forms of Focalin have a duration of effect of 4 to 6 hours, similar to that of Adderall IR. Extended-release (XR) forms of Focalin provide a sustained psychostimulant effect for up to 12 hours, similar to that of Adderall XR. Focalin IR has only three dosage options (2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg) compared to seven for Adderall IR (5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg), which may make Adderall IR easier for titrating. Focalin XR has more dosage options than Adderall XR. Immediate-release forms of Focalin are generally cheaper than immediate-release forms of Adderall; however, brand-name Adderall XR is usually cheaper than Focalin XR. Both Focalin and Adderall are available as generics.Side EffectsAlthough neither Focalin XR capsules nor Adderall XR capsules should be chewed or crushed, for people who have difficulty swallowing the capsules may be opened and the contents sprinkled on apple sauce and swallowed straight away. Both Focalin and Adderall may cause dizziness, insomnia, nervousness, stomach aches
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