Not all, but some individuals in the USA are presently experiencing the most severe problem of brain disorder, which is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). They face unique challenges while dealing with this medical condition and try to resolve it up to some extent, not completely.
For effectively managing or reducing the symptoms of ADHD as well as Narcolepsy (chronic neurological disorder), Methylphenidate and Adderall are two crucial medications. Also, for efficiently treating both ADHD and Narcolepsy patients, various treatment options with different types of therapy are widely available in the USA.
This blog will help readers to discover a comprehensive resource while doing the comparison between Methylphenidate and Adderall ADHD treating drugs. To explore the complexities of ADHD treatment, these medications are differentiated on the basis of their general outlook, use, dosages, effectiveness and side effects.
Comparison Between Methylphenidate and Adderall ADHD Drugs
Here, to navigate the nuances of daily life, we will explore the distinction between Methylphenidate and Adderall medicines on some below-mentioned factors. These are as follows:
1. Overview
Methylphenidate
To boost the brain chemicals or neurotransmitters, Central Nervous System (CNS) stimulant is a general drug class, which belongs to Methylphenidate and is also the generic name. This CNS category of drug class is known as psychostimulants for treating ADHD patients. Concerta and Ritalin are two most popular brand name prescription drugs for easing the symptoms of ADHD.
Apart from these two medications, Cotempla, Methylin, Ritalin, Adhansia XR, Biphentin, Aptensio XR, Relexxii, Metadate, Cotempla XR-ODT, Metadate ER, QuilliChew ER, Aptensio, Daytrana, Quillivant XR, Jornay PM, Foquest, Ritalin LA are other well-known branded prescription drugs of Methylphenidate drug class.
This generic drug is one of the best effective treatment methods and is considered a second-line treatment option (after the initial or first-line treatment) recommended for Narcolepsy patients.
Adderall
The Adderall medicine belongs to a family of drug class called CNS stimulant of phenethylamine (organic compound) class. The formation of two well-recognized brand names, Adderall and Mydasis forms mixed amphetamine salts that are commonly known as MAS products.
To alleviate the symptoms of Narcolepsy and ADHD, norepinephrine and dopamine are grouped together to activate the movement of brain signals which in turn results to form both human trace amine-associated receptor 1 (hTAAR1) and vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) neurons.
MAS products are usually formed by combining either two tablets or capsules of amphetamine enantiomers that are represented with Adderall® such as levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine.
2. Uses
Methylphenidate
Both ADHD and Narcolepsy patients feel relaxed, calm and focused towards their assigned tasks through boosting brain chemicals. In order to regulate attentiveness, maintain wakefulness, and control several cognitive functions by the combination of two neurotransmitters, which are dopamine and norepinephrine.
By consuming the recommended dosage of this branded drug, it will help ADHD patients including both adults and adolescents so that they can improve their ability of concentration and control the levels of impulsivity-hyperactivity.
If narcolepsy patients consume the prescribed dosage of Methylphenidate medicine, it will help to increase wakefulness as well as reduce sleepiness throughout the day. To maintain alertness and function more efficiently during the day, this drug is alternatively used to treat people with narcolepsy.
Adderall
ADHD patients, who are 6 years and above, the recommended dose of Adderall drug is generally prescribed and is approved by the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration).
To stay awake and alert throughout the day, this generic drug is more beneficial and effective for narcolepsy patients, who are 6 years or older including both adults and children.
Thus, this branded medication is prescribed by a clinical expert to treat Narcolepsy and ADHD by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters in individuals in order to pay attention, control impulsive and hyperactive behavior.
3. Dose and Dosages
Methylphenidate
The dosage formation of this branded medicine comes in the form of oral pills and capsules with white, green, yellow, gray, pink, peach colors etc.
In addition, the dosages of Methylphenidate medicines are classified on the basis of individual’s response and specific formulation. These are as follows:
- 5 mg/5 oz
- 10 mg/9 hr
- 15 mg/9 hr
- 20 mg/9 hr
- 30 mg/24 hr
- 40 mg/24 hr
- 50 mg/24 hr
- 60 mg/24 hr
- 18 mg/24 hr
- 27 mg/24 hr
- 36 mg/24 hr
- 54mg/24 hr
The immediate release tablets of Methylphenidate medicine consist of Ritalin and Methylin, which are most common brand names for prescription. Thus, this formulation is normally given to adults and children of 6 years and above, experiencing the symptoms of ADHD.
Also, the extended-release tablets consist of Ritalin LA, Concerta, and Metadate CD, which are essential for giving prescription to both ADHD and Narcolepsy patients. Hence, this combination is mainly prescribed for children and adolescents that are 12 years and above to ease its symptoms.
Adderall
Tablets and capsules are two dosage forms available of the Adderall medicine, which vary based on some aspects like an individual’s age, response towards the medication, and the condition being treated.