Adderall vs Concerta

Comparing Adderall and Concerta – which is better?

Adderall and Concerta are both stimulant medications used for the treatment of ADHD. Though they act in similar ways, the medicines have some significant differences.

Though Adderall and Concerta contain different active ingredients, both of them are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treating ADHD in children and adults.

Determining which is better of the two - Concerta and Adderall, is not an easy task. It is important to first be aware of the contents of each.

Concerta is available in the market in tablet form. It contains methylphenidate, a potent stimulant. Adderall also comes in tablet form; but it contains a mixture of amphetamine salts.

Both these ADHD medications are long acting or long term processing that serve to calm the sensors or biological sensory messages which may trigger ADHD to worsen it.

Studies and Researches:

The efficacy of both these stimulants has been demonstrated in classroom settings. Both the medicines have the effect of calming the user and allowing him to improve his mental concentration. However, the long-term affects of both medications are controversial.

According to Terrance Woodworth of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), both Concerta and Adderall are considered to be addictive and therefore are Schedule II controlled substances in the United States.

It has been shown that amphetamines are more potent than Concerta. Both medications stimulate the central nervous system. Adderall tends to have harsher side effects than Concerta.

Concerta Side Effects:

Children younger than 6 years should not take Concerta, and anybody having anxiety disorder, a tic disorder or glaucoma should also not take it.

Patients taking antidepressant medications such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs should stop taking it at least 2 weeks before starting to take Concerta.

Some of the common side effects among children taking this stimulant are stomach ache, vomiting, fever, sore throat, nasal irritation, loss of sleep, and dizziness.

Adults taking Concerta might experience some side effects such as insomnia, headache, increased anxiety and irritability, loss of appetite, dry mouth, weight loss, and excessive sweating.

Adderall Side Effects:

Just like Concerta, Adderall should not be taken at the same time as antidepressant medications such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs. However, Adderall can be prescribed to kids as young as 3 years.

Adderall must not be used by patients with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, a tic disorder, hardened arteries, or an anxiety disorder.

Some of the common side effects of taking Adderall include insomnia, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, loss of appetite, dry mouth, and high blood pressure.

Which is the best:

According to a study, it has been proved that 33% of patients respond better to Concerta, 33% respond better to Adderall, while the remaining 33% respond better to both medications.

Hence, it is difficult determine which is better among the two – Concerta or Adderall. You must consult with your health care practitioner to find out which one works best for you.

For more information, read our articles 4 Ritalin Alternatives, 3 Adderall Alternatives, Adderall vs Vyvanse, and Adderall vs Strattera.