Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a widespread neurodevelopmental disorder that affects around 9.8 percent of children and 2.5 percent to 4 percent of adults across the globe. The disorder, characterized by hyperactivity and inattention along with other symptoms, could interfere with an individual’s academic, professional, or private life, highlighting the need for appropriate treatment.
Treatment usually includes prescription drugs like Ritalin or Adderall. These stimulants have been approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) for over 20 years and are generally effective and safe. Although both medications share similar characteristics, there are certain circumstances where one of Ritalin or Adderall could be more effective than one of them.
What Is Ritalin?
Ritalin is the brand name for the chemical methylphenidate. It is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant commonly prescribed to treat symptoms of ADHD, like inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. Ritalin comes in tablets, chewable form, in a liquid solution, and long-acting capsules, and the dosage is based on the weight and age of the person.
Approved Uses of Ritalin
Methylphenidate can be used to treat both ADHD and narcolepsy, which is a sleep disorder that can cause excessive drowsiness. This can affect daily activities. The use of the drug is approved by FDA to manage ADHD in individuals who are older than six years old.
“Taking Ritalin [for ADHD] can have the resultant effect of stability, calmness and improved concentration,” claims Zishan Khan, M.D., a psychiatrist at Mindpath Health in Frisco, Texas.
Side Effects of Ritalin
Most side effects are minimal and last for several days or two weeks, says Brian Clark, a trained nurse anesthetist who founded United Medical Education in Provo, Utah. The possible side effects are. However, they are not restricted to:
- Appetite loss
- Weight loss
- Sleeping difficulties
- Irritability
- Nervousness
- Drowsiness
- Tension in the muscles
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Heartburn
- Dry mouth
- A decrease in female libido
In rare instances, Ritalin can cause serious side effects that require prompt medical treatment. Potentially serious side effects include but aren’t only:
- Heartbeat irregularity
- Chest pain
- Breathing shortness
- Excessive drowsiness
- Speech impairment
- Fainting
- Muscle weakness or numbness in legs or arms
- Vision shifts
- Seizure
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Anxiety and mood swings
- Fever
- Blistering
“Any CNS stimulant can strain one’s heart, with the possibility of arrhythmias, rapid heart rate, chest pain and heightened blood pressure,” says Dr. Khan. “Extra caution should be taken if prescribed to someone with a pre-existing heart condition, a family history of heart concerns or [to someone who] frequently experiences chest tightness or discomfort.”
In addition, stimulants like Ritalin are not recommended to be consumed within 14 days of taking monoamine antioxidants (MAOIs). Although not prohibited by such a prescription, Ritalin could reduce the effectiveness of some drugs that treat seizures in adolescents and children.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall can be described as an approved prescription drug that is an amalgamation of dextroamphetamine with amphetamine. Like Ritalin, Adderall is a CNS stimulant that boosts the number of brain chemicals that increase alertness and focus.
“The amphetamine class of drugs tends to be somewhat more potent [than methylphenidate], theoretically suggesting that one would require a lower dosage to achieve a similar effect,” the doctor. Khan acknowledges that this isn’t the case in all cases.
Approved Uses of Adderall
Adderall has been approved as a therapy for ADHD for adults and children aged six and over. Furthermore, this medication is used for treating narcolepsy.
Side Effects of Adderall
Adderall can cause negative side effects. Clark states tend to be brief and not long-lasting. These adverse effects include but aren’t restricted to:
- Headache
- Agitation
- Dry mouth
- Changes in the libido
- Menstrual cramps painful and painful
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Weight loss
In rare instances, Adderall may cause serious adverse side effects such as sudden deaths in adolescents and children, stroke, heart attack, or sudden death in adults. The risk is greater for individuals with heart issues.
If you notice any serious signs, you should seek medical attention immediately. Some of the most serious side effects include. However, they are not restricted to:
- Speech impairment
- Dizziness
- Muscle weakness or numbness in legs or arms
- Seizures
- Tics
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Hallucinating
- Mania
- Vision shifts
- The skin is irritated, blistered or swollen. skin
- Swelling
- Breathing difficulties and more
It is not recommended to use Adderall in the event that you are taking MAOIs. If you currently use an MAOI, you should wait 14 days before starting the Adderall prescription.
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Ritalin is different from. Adderall: What’s the difference?
Ritalin, as well as Adderall, are alike in terms of effectiveness as well as side effects, and price, according to Doctors. Khan. “In a very general sense, neither medication’s intrinsic property makes it a better option for the treatment of ADHD,” Dr. Khan states.
Sometimes, determining which drug is the most effective requires trial and trial. They are typically employed in tandem. If one does not work, then the other is an alternative. But, some situations could lead to one drug being prescribed in preference to the others.
These medications are available in short-acting (three or four hours)) or long-acting (four or six hours) formulations.
A side-by-side view of Ritalin and Adderall is below:
Does Insurance Cover Ritalin and Adderall?
Prescription stimulant medicines to treat ADHD, like Ritalin and Adderall, are considered medically required in certain instances, such as when a person is diagnosed with ADHD or narcolepsy or in conjunction with therapy for someone who is already on medication for depression. Because they are medically required, these medications are covered by most insurance plans in addition to Medicare.
However, certain plans might have to be based on specific products. This means that your insurance company could decide which brands and prescriptions it will cover. It is recommended to speak with your insurance provider to find out which medicines are covered under your health insurance plan.
When to See a Doctor
Ritalin and Adderall both have a long usage history within their respective countries in the U.S., demonstrating safety and effectiveness in treating ADHD among children as well as adults. Although the majority of adverse effects, like reduced appetite and difficulty sleeping, are minor and short-lived, Clark says to seek medical attention if the adverse effects are serious or persist. In addition, the process of switching from one medication to another should be done with your doctor’s direction.
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