Ritalin vs. Adderall

Doctors often prescribe Adderall or Ritalin for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Both of these medications are considered stimulants. Studies show these stimulants improve symptoms for more than 70% of children and adults when used for ADHD.

Ritalin is the brand name for methylphenidate. Adderall is the brand name for amphetamine-dextroamphetamine.

Methylphenidate increases the action of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine by blocking their reabsorption into the brain’s neurons, decreasing restlessness and improving attention.

Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine stimulate activity in the central nervous system, releasing dopamine, serotonin and adrenaline (norepinephrine) to bring the brain to a more regulated state of stimulation.

Although Ritalin and Adderall both come in short- and long-acting methods, the primary difference is that Adderall typically works for four to six hours, while Ritalin stays active for two to three hours.

This table describes the major differences between Ritalin and Adderall.

The two ADHD medications are similar because they’re potent nervous system stimulants that work in the same ways in the brain with near-identical side effects and benefits. Although some may experience side effects, they are both generally well tolerated. However, if these medications are not taken appropriately, both can be addictive and lead to dependence.

Because of the unique chemistry in everyone’s brain, it’s not accurate to say that one medication is stronger than the other. People in the same family may experience different results from the medications.

One study of children showed that low doses of Adderall produced effects comparable to those of a higher dose of Ritalin. Another study reported that Adderall might be a better choice for adults, while Ritalin might deliver better results for children and adolescents. Despite these studies, your doctor may choose to switch to another medication if your current medication is not working.

Adderall and methylphenidate side effects are similar because both drugs are stimulants. One consideration for parents of children with ADHD is that both medications may slow childhood growth. However, each drug can produce side effects that the other drug doesn’t.

Adderall is also known to cause less common side effects that include painful menstrual cramps, constipation, teeth grinding, confusion, shivering and loss of coordination.

Ritalin has many of the same regular side effects as Adderall but has a few that are different.

The medications can also produce more serious side effects. Adderall side effects can include sudden death in children and teenagers, especially in children and teenagers with heart defects or other serious heart problems.

Other serious side effects include seizures (mainly in patients with a history of seizures), eyesight changes, blurred vision, serotonin syndrome and new behavioral problems such as aggression or paranoia. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening situation that stems from an abnormal change in serotonin levels.

Contact your doctor immediately if you or your child experiences chest pain, shortness of breath or fainting while taking Adderall.

Adderall drug interactions include acidifying agents (gastrointestinal and urinary), adrenergic blockers, alkalinizing agents, tricyclic antidepressants, serotonergic drugs such as SSRIs and antidepressants, tryptophan and St John’s Wort.

Taking Adderall with CYP2D6 inhibitors such as paroxetine and fluoxetine can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Taking Adderall with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOs) can cause a hypertensive crisis (spiked blood pressure) or death.

Drugs that can trigger Ritalin interactions include blood thinners, clonidine, dobutamine, epinephrine and isoproterenol. Cold and allergy medications that contain phenylephrine (a decongestant), potassium citrate, sodium acetate, sodium bicarbonate, citric acid and potassium citrate, sodium citrate and citric acid can also interact with methylphenidate .

Serious Ritalin interactions may occur with medications to treat high or low blood pressure, stimulant medications, diet pills, seizure medicines or antidepressants.

Always tell your doctor what other medications you take prior to taking either Ritalin or Adderall.

Years of clinical trials and specific drug studies show that complementary approaches to ADHD treatment and medication for ADHD improve the disorder’s core symptoms of impulsivity, hyperarousal and distractibility.

Over time, your body adjusts to the medications. The dosage that provides the most effectiveness can change over time. It”s important to communicate symptoms and side effects that you experience to determine whether and how to adjust your dosage.