*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
Ritalin and Adderall are medications most often used for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), although they are also used for treating narcolepsy. Both of these medications are stimulants that increase norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These chemicals in the brain are involved in regulating attention, alertness, and impulsivity. Although Ritalin and Adderall function in the same way, the response and side effects of these medications vary from individual to individual.
If you’re considering Ritalin or Adderall, or want to discuss your current prescription with a provider, you will be limited in your options. Klarity and Circle Medical are two online psychiatry platforms that can and will prescribe stimulant medications, which are controlled substances. These platforms can connect you with a provider quickly and offer assessments and prescription consultation.
Boxed Warning: Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Ritalin LA) – Risk of medication misuse or abuse
Methylphenidate, the active ingredient in Ritalin and Ritalin LA, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Methylphenidate has a risk of misuse (abuse) which can lead to dependence on the medication.
Ritalin is a controlled substance, which means that it’s more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
Boxed Warning: Amphetamine, dextroamphetamine mixed salts (Adderall) - Risk of medication misuse or abuse
Adderall has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Amphetamines, an active ingredient in Adderall, have a risk of misuse (abuse) which can lead to dependence on the medication, serious heart conditions, and even sudden death.
Adderall is a controlled substance, which means that it’s more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
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What Is Ritalin?
Ritalin (methylphenidate) is a commonly prescribed medication that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy. Ritalin is a stimulant medication that works by increasing certain chemicals in the brain (norepinephrine and dopamine). These chemicals play a crucial role in regulating attention, focus, and impulse control. Increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine leads to improved attention span, focus, wakefulness, and impulsivity.
Ritalin comes in a variety of different strengths and formulations, including immediate-release and long-acting versions. This allows for a personalized treatment plan to suit an individual’s needs. Ritalin should always be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional.1, 2, 3, 4
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is another commonly prescribed stimulant medication for the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy. Adderall is made up of two types of amphetamine salts (dextro-amphetamine and levo-amphetamine in a 3:1 ratio). Like Ritalin, Adderall also functions by increasing norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain leading to improved attention and lowered impulsivity.
Adderall also comes in a variety of different strengths and formulations, including immediate-release and extended-release versions. Similar to Ritalin, Adderall should always be taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider.5, 6, 7, 8
Key Differences Between Ritalin & Adderall
Ritalin and Adderall are both commonly prescribed medications for ADHD and narcolepsy. Although similar, they have distinct differences and are not interchangeable. Ritalin contains methylphenidate and works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, helping to improve focus and reduce hyperactivity.
Adderall, on the other hand, is a combination of amphetamine salts and also increases dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. The key differences lie in their chemical composition, duration of action, potential side effects, and how they are processed in the body.
The key differences between Ritalin and Adderall are:
Conditions Treated
Ritalin and Adderall have similar effects on the body and, because of this, they are prescribed to treat the same conditions. Both medications are commonly prescribed for treating ADHD. This is a disorder characterized by problems with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Ritalin and Adderall can help to improve focus, attention span, and impulse control in these individuals. This allows them to better manage their daily activities and tasks.
Ritalin and Adderall are also occasionally used for the treatment of narcolepsy. This is a disorder that negatively impacts sleep leading to excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue. Some individuals with narcolepsy can also experience sudden, uncontrollable sleep attacks. By promoting wakefulness, Ritalin and Adderall can improve the symptoms of narcolepsy and decrease the possibility of sleep attacks. This allows individuals to stay alert and function more effectively throughout the day.
Standard Dosages & Forms
Both Ritalin and Adderall come in immediate-release and long-acting/extended-release formulations.
Immediate-release Ritalin comes in tablets of 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg. After being taken, its effect typically peaks about 2 hours later. Long-acting Ritalin comes in capsules of 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, and 40 mg. After being taken, The long-acting Ritalin has an initial peak approximately 2 hours later followed by a secondary peak 4 hours later. This allows for a more sustained effect of the medication over a longer period of time.
Immediate-release Adderall comes in tablets of 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg. It typically reaches a peak approximately 3 hours after being taken. Extended-release Adderall comes in capsules of 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, and 30 mg. The extended-released version has a more gradual effect and peaks about 7 hours after being taken.
Side Effects
There are several potential side effects that can be caused by Ritalin and Adderall. These side effects can range from mild to severe. Some side effects may resolve over time with continued usage of these medications. It is important to take these medications under the care of a healthcare professional to manage and reduce potential side effects.
Because the medications function similarly, they have similar potential side effects including mood changes, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. These medications may also cause decreased appetite and weight loss. Both medications may also cause problems falling asleep or staying asleep, and this risk is higher when taking long-acting or extended-release formulations. Stimulant medications can also cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate.2, 6, 9, 10
Strength
Ritalin and Adderall have different strengths and potencies. Strength refers to the dosage of the active ingredient in a medication, while potency refers to the drug’s effectiveness in producing a desired effect at a specific dose. The strengths/dosages of Ritalin and Adderall are as discussed above. These dosages include immediate-release and long-acting/extended-release options.
Immediate-release formulations allow for more precise dosage adjustments and flexibility in tailoring medication to an individual’s needs, while long-acting/extended-release options allow for a more sustained effect with once-a-day dosing. Although Ritalin and Adderall are similar stimulants, the potency of these medications can vary and is determined by an individual’s response to the medications.
How Long It Takes to Work
For immediate-release Ritalin, the peak concentration is reached about 2 hours after ingestion. Long-acting Ritalin has a peak initially around 2 hours after ingestion followed by another peak 4 hours later. Immediate-release Adderall peaks approximately 3 hours after ingestion while extended-release Adderall peaks approximately 7 hours after ingestion. However, It is important to know that the peak for these medications can vary based on the individual, and effects are typically noticed earlier. Some effects can be seen with the first dosing, but it may take several weeks to reach the maximum effect.
Addiction Potential
Both of these medications carry a risk of dependence and should only be used as prescribed and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Because these medications are stimulants, taking them at a higher dose than prescribed or taking them inappropriately can lead to psychological and physical dependency.
Dependency is the strong psychological/physical reliance on a specific drug to function normally. Abruptly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms including fatigue, depression, irritability, increased appetite, and sleep disturbances.
The half-life of a drug is the time it takes for half of the drug to be processed and eliminated from the body. Ritalin (immediate release) has a shorter half-life around 3.5 hours in adults and 2.5 hours in children.2 Adderall has a longer half-life that ranges between 9 and 14 hours depending on the formulation.6 While a longer half-life may provide a more sustained and smoother effect, it also means that Adderall stays in the body for a longer duration potentially increasing the risk of side effects or interactions with other medications.
The table below summarizes the key differences between Ritalin versus Adderall:1, 2, 6
Key Components | Ritalin | Adderall |
What is the generic name? | Methylphenidate | Amphetamine (dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine salts) |
What forms does it come in? | Immediate-release Long-acting | Immediate-release Extended-release |
What are the typical dosages? | 5-20 mg for immediate release and 10-40 mg for long-acting | 5-30 mg for both immediate-release and extended-acting release |
Who is approved to take it? | Adults and Children older than 6 years with ADHD or narcolepsy | Adults and Children older than 6 years with ADHD or narcolepsy |
Other brand names containing the active ingredient | Adhansia, Concerta, Cotempla, Jornay, Metadate, Methylin, Quillichew, Quillivant, Aptensio | None |
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The providers on Klarity offer comprehensive, personalized ADHD treatment. From diagnosis to therapy to medication management, a Klarity provider will be there for you. And, if needed, they’re able to prescribe controlled substances, like Adderall and Concerta.
What Are Ritalin & Adderall Used to Treat?
Ritalin and Adderall are both FDA-approved treatments for ADHD and narcolepsy. FDA-approved medications are medications whose safety and efficacy have been evaluated and approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for a specific indication. FDA-approved medications have undergone rigorous testing and clinical trials to demonstrate their effectiveness and safety.
Some medications, however, can be prescribed by healthcare providers for disorders or uses that are not specifically approved by the FDA. These uses are called “off-label” and are based on a healthcare provider’s clinical judgment and evaluation of a patient’s individual needs.
The table below compares the medical and mental health conditions Ritalin and Adderall are used to treat:11, 12
Condition | Ritalin | Adderall |
ADHD | Yes, FDA-approved | Yes, FDA-approved |
Narcolepsy | Yes, FDA-approved | Yes, FDA-approved |
Refractory depression in older patients | Yes, Off-label | No |
Apathy in Alzheimer's disease | Yes, Off-label | No |
Obesity | No | Yes, Off-label |
How Are Ritalin & Adderall Similar?
Ritalin and Adderall are similar in the way that they affect the brain and, therefore, they have similar uses for the treatment of different disorders. Both medications are simulants that increase norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These are chemicals that are involved in attention, hyperactivity, wakefulness, and impulsivity.
By increasing the level of these chemicals, individuals with ADHD can see improvements in the common symptoms of ADHD, namely poor attention, hyperactivity, and poor impulse control. The effect on wakefulness also makes these medications useful in the treatment of narcolepsy which can cause excessive daytime sleepiness.
These medications are controlled substances and must be prescribed by a healthcare provider. Prescribes include psychiatrists, pediatricians, neurologists, and primary care physicians. These healthcare professionals have the necessary expertise to diagnose and treat conditions such as ADHD and narcolepsy.
While both of these medications can be effective in treating ADHD and narcolepsy, the choice between Adderall and Ritalin depends on various factors such as an individual’s response, medical history, current medications, and potential side effects. Choosing between Ritalin and Adderall is best made in consultation with a healthcare professional who can evaluate the specific needs of the individual.
Similarities between Ritalin & Adderall include that they are both:
- Both are stimulant medications
- Have multiple uses as FDA-approved and non-FDA-approved treatments
- FDA-approved for ADHD and Narcolepsy
- Approved for use in Adults and children older than 6 years
- Both are FDA-controlled substances
- Should be used under medical supervision
- Both have similar side effects
Side Effects of Ritalin & Adderall
Ritalin and Adderall can cause a variety of side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most of the side effects caused by these medications are mild and may resolve over time.
These side effects by also be eliminated by changing the dosage and timing of the medication. Serious side effects are rarer and due to the increase in norepinephrine and dopamine. An increase in norepinephrine can cause side effects such as tremors, tachycardia, hypertension, and irregular heart rhythms. Increasing dopamine may cause agitation and psychosis.3, 7
This is not a comprehensive list of possible mild or serious side effects. If serious side effects occur, medical attention may be necessary. It is important for individuals to talk to their prescriber and pharmacist about potential side effects from either medication.
The table below compares the possible side effects of Ritalin and Adderall:1, 5
Side Effects | Ritalin | Adderall |
Insomnia | Yes | Yes |
Restlessness | Yes | Yes |
Agitation | Yes | Yes |
Abnormal movements | Yes | Yes |
Tremor | Yes | Yes |
Depressed mood | Yes | Yes |
Decreased appetite | Yes | Yes |
Reduced weight gain or weight loss | Yes | Yes |
Dry mouth | Yes | Yes |
Nausea/vomiting | Yes | Yes |
Abdominal pain | Yes | Yes |
Heart palpitations | Yes | Yes |
Elevated heart rate | Yes | Yes |
Increased blood pressure | Yes | Yes |
Blurry vision | Yes | Yes |
Priapism (prolonged or painful erections) | Yes | Yes |
Changes in libido | Yes | Yes |
Serious Side Effects & Allergic Reactions of Ritalin & Adderall
While serious side effects and/or allergic reactions to Ritalin or Adderall are rare, they can occur in some individuals. If severe side effects or allergic reactions occur, the person should immediately seek medical care.
Serious side effects that may occur from taking Ritalin include:9
- Blood pressure changes
- Irregular heartbeat
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Slow or difficult speech
- Fainting
- Seizures
- Weakness or numbness of an arm or leg
- Changes in vision
- Hallucinations
- Mood changes
- Frequent, painful erections
- Allergic reactions
Serious side effects that may occur from taking Adderall include:10
- Slow or difficult speech
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Changes in vision
- Weakness or numbness of an arm or leg
- Depression
- Abnormally excited and frenzied mood
- Agitation
- Allergic reactions
Warnings & Precautions for Ritalin & Adderall
Stimulant medications, such as Ritalin and Adderall, come with certain warnings and precautions that should be considered before starting them. These medications care a black box warning, the most severe warning issued by the FDA, regarding the potential for abuse, dependency, and cardiovascular risks.
Individuals with a history of substance abuse may need to consider other options for treatment. Likewise, individuals with a history of heart problems or elevated blood pressure may also need to consider other options. Before starting these medications, it is crucial to discuss with your healthcare professional and to inform them of your medical history including pre-existing conditions or medications being taken.
Risks to consider when taking Ritalin and Adderall include:3, 4, 7, 8
- Interactions with alcohol: Taking alcohol with these medications, especially Ritalin, may lead to increased absorption and effect of the medication. Also, stimulant medications may mask the sedative effects of alcohol leading to excessive alcohol consumption.
- Use while pregnant: The risk of taking Ritalin or Adderall while pregnant remain unclear. Because of this, these medications should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risk.
- Use while breastfeeding: Both Ritalin and Adderall are excreted in breast milk and should typically be avoided while breastfeeding, if possible.
- Those with a history of substance abuse: As Ritalin and Adderall are stimulants and have a risk for addiction when taken inappropriately, alternatives may need to be considered for individuals with a history of substance abuse.
- Those with a history of cardiovascular disorders: Ritalin and Adderall can be dangerous for individuals with a history of cardiovascular problems such as heart rhythm disorders, elevated blood pressure, and structural heart problems.
- Those with a history of psychiatric disorders: Stimulants such as Ritalin and Adderall can exacerbate some psychiatric disorders including those with a history of hallucinations or bipolar disorder.
Potential Drug Interactions With Ritalin & Adderall
Ritalin and Adderall can interact with various substances in the body, including medications, herbs, or supplements. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about these substances so that they can assess the potential interactions and minimize risks. Combining Ritalin or Adderall with other substances like caffeine or illicit drugs can intensify their effects and increase potential adverse reactions.
Additionally, medications aimed at reducing blood pressure may have reduced effectiveness when taken alongside Ritalin and Adderall, as these medications can increase blood pressure levels. Furthermore, interactions between Ritalin and Adderall with other psychiatric medications may result in severe side effects.
Disclaimer: Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Ritalin and Adderall can change how these medications work in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. This article does not consider all the possible interactions. Please let your doctor, psychiatrists, and pharmacists know about all the products you currently use, such as prescription medication, nonprescription drugs, and herbal supplements. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Medications and substances that may have harmful interactions with Ritalin and Adderall include:4, 8, 13
Complicating Interactions | Ritalin | Adderall |
Tricyclic antidepressants | X | X |
MAOIs | X | X |
Acidifying agents (guanethidine, reserpine, glutamic acid, ascorbic acid, ammonium chloride, sodium acid phosphate) | X | |
Beta-blockers (propranolol, metoprolol, atenolol, etc) | X | |
SSRIs (such as paroxetine and fluoxetine) | X | |
St. John’s Wort | X | |
Antihypertensives | X | X |
Haloperiodol | X | |
Lithium | X | X |
Phenobarbital | X | X |
Phenytoin | X | X |
Proton Pump Inhibitors (omeprazole, esomeprazole, etc) | X | |
Risperidone | X |
Which Is Right for You: Ritalin or Adderall?
Choosing the most suitable medication for your needs depends on several factors including medical history, symptoms, and individual response to treatment. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional who can assess your condition and history to provide personalized recommendations.
You may need to consider online psychiatry services if seeing a doctor in person isn’t feasible. These services allow you to consult psychiatrists remotely to evaluate your situation, discuss your options, and help you consider the benefits and risks of each medication.
How to Get a Prescription for Ritalin & Adderall
For those wondering how to get prescribed Adderall or Ritalin, it is important to understand the types of healthcare providers who commonly prescribe these medications. Ritalin and Adderall are only available by prescription from healthcare providers, including psychiatrists, pediatricians, family physicians, and neurologists. These healthcare providers play a vital role in the process of ADHD management and treatment with medication.
A healthcare provider is able to review your medical history and assess symptoms to provide treatment recommendations. If you are considering medications for the treatment of ADHD, talk to your healthcare provider about Ritalin, Adderall, and other potential options. It is important to have an open and honest discussion with your health provider to share your concerns, goals, and expectations so that you can make informed decisions about the best course of action.
Get Personalized, Affordable ADHD Treatment
The providers on Klarity offer comprehensive, personalized ADHD treatment. From diagnosis to therapy to medication management, a Klarity provider will be there for you. And, if needed, they’re able to prescribe controlled substances, like Adderall and Concerta.
Questions to Ask Your Health Team About Ritalin & Adderall
Open communication with your healthcare team is paramount when it comes to receiving the best outcome. To assist with communication, it is important to come to the appointment prepared with any questions or concerns you may have. Being proactive with your communication with help to ensure that your provider has a comprehensive understanding of your needs and concerns. Remember, your doctor is there to support you, and, through open communication, you can actively collaborate to reach the possible result.
Questions to ask your prescriber about Ritalin and Adderall include:
- Is it safe to take Ritalin or Adderall with my other medications?
- Will Ritalin or Adderall be covered by my insurance?
- Which one has the best results as a treatment for ADHD?
- Does my medical history increase my risk of side effects for either?
- How long can I expect side effects to last?
- How often should I see you for checkups while taking Ritalin or Adderall?
- What should I do if I am unsure whether ADHD medications are right for me?
- Are there alternatives or non-medication options to consider before starting these medications?
- How long should I expect to take Ritalin or Adderall?
- Are there lifestyle changes or precautions I should be aware of before starting the medication?
- What are the potential risks of using Adderall and caffeine together?
- How does Adderall compare to phentermine as an alternative?
In My Experience
Ritalin and Adderall can be helpful treatment options for those with ADHD and narcolepsy. Many of my patients with ADHD take these medications and have had significant improvement in their symptoms and overall quality of life. It is important to remember that you may react to the medications in different ways. If one medication doesn’t seem to work or causes severe side effects, don’t lose hope. You may react completely differently to another medication. It is important to tell your healthcare provider of any side effects so that other options can be considered.
Additional Resources
To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.
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For Further Reading
- How Long Does Ritalin Stay in Your System?
- Focalin Vs Ritalin: Similarities, Differences, & Which Is Best for You
- Mydayis Vs Adderall Comparison
- Concerta Vs Adderall: Differences, Similarities, Side Effects, & More
- Mydayis: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, & More
- Quillivant XR (Methylphenidate): Uses, Dosage, & Side Effects
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Best Online Psychiatry Services
Online psychiatry, sometimes called telepsychiatry, platforms offer medication management by phone, video, or secure messaging for a variety of mental health conditions. In some cases, online psychiatry may be more affordable than seeing an in-person provider. Mental health treatment has expanded to include many online psychiatry and therapy services. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to find the one that is right for you.