Concerta Vs Adderall: A Comprehensive Comparison

Medication is crucial in controlling Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Concerta and Adderall are two of the most popular pharmaceuticals to treat ADHD. What then are the differences between these medications? Having the proper knowledge and understanding of the complexities between Concerta and Adderall is the best way to make the appropriate decision concerning treatment.

This blog will unpack each of the drugs, their side effects, their dosing, effectiveness, etc. At the end, you will learn more about the kind of medication that best fits your needs. 

What Are Concerta and Adderall?

In treating ADHD, two medications that can be used are Concerta and Adderall. Nevertheless, they have different structures, ways of action, and times of influence in the body as well.

Concerta

Concerta is a drug and a well-known medicine possessing the effect of methylphenidate that treats ADHD. It influences nerve functions and brain chemicals, which lead to hyperactivity and the regulation of impulses. Concerta is a slow-release drug, i.e., the drug release is steady. It can be taken once daily, which is usually convenient for individuals who need controlled symptoms in the morning at school or work. 

Adderall

Adderall is a blended drug comprising two active agents (amphetamine salts of levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine). These medications act as stimulants, as they increase the brain chemicals such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This minimises their hyper behaviour and they can concentrate better. Adderall has advantages over Concerta with its immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (XR) formulation, which is flexible since it allows the treatment to be carried out depending on the requirements of a particular patient.

Concerta Side Effects

Concerta is highly effective for treating ADHD, but like any medication, it can come with side effects. These effects must be watched closely, and in case of any concern, they must be reported to a healthcare professional.

Common side effects of Concerta:

• Insomnia. Failure to sleep or lack of sleep.
• Loss of appetite. This can lead to a loss of weight, though it mainly affects children.
• Stomachache. Belly pain, nausea, vomiting.
• Headache. Severe and moderate headaches may occur, particularly within the first weeks of the treatment.
• Anxiety or nervousness. Others have problems in that they become nervous or have a feeling of dread.

The Concerta side effects will also reduce over time as the body progressively gets used to the use of the drug. Nonetheless, one must see a medical professional in case any side effects aggravate or do not resolve completely.

Adderall Side Effects

Adderall, as a combination of the amphetamine salts, has a distinct set of potential adverse effects. These vary with the use of immediate-release (IR) form and those with extended-release (XR) form.

Common Side Effects of Adderall:

• Dry mouth. It is a prevalent issue facing people who consume Adderall.
• Loss of appetite. This may lead to weight loss, which is common in children.
• Increased pulse. This is referred to as palpitation or racing pulse, or an elevated pulse rate.
• Insomnia. Sleep difficulties, especially when the drug is unlucky enough to be taken too late in the day.
• Anxiety. In some instances, there are cases where some users become nervous or anxious.

When the side effects of Adderall are extreme or affect normal functioning, medical consultation is advisable.

Concerta Dosage

The dosage of Concerta may even include modifications on the age of the patient, the reaction to the drug, and the severity of the complaint. Intakes are typically small and are increased or decreased based on the level of tolerance that an individual has towards a substance. 

Typical dosages of Concerta:

• Adults: They usually start with 18 mg of a single dose daily. It may be titrated depending on efficacy and adverse effects, and the maximum administered dose per day is 72 mg.
• Children: A dose of 18 mg is usually the initial dosage in a child over the age of six years, but it can be personalised. Children must not consume over 54 mg daily.

Concerta is an extended-release form that provides individuals with a moderate dose throughout the day, which makes it a convenient option for those individuals who need more stable management of symptoms.

Adderall Dosage

Adderall comes in immediate-release (IR) form and extended-release (XR) preparations, and both forms have ramifications on how the medication is dosed.

Typical Doses of Adderall:

• Adults: The recommended dosage of Adderall IR used in adults is 5 mg/day, which may be administered one or two times a day. The dosage may be raised by 5 mg per week, and the final form is 40 mg daily. The most common initiation dosage of Adderall XR is 20 mg once daily, and the highest dosage is 40 mg once daily.
• Children: The basic dosage of Adderall IR in children begins with the amount of 2.5 mg and may gradually be increased. Initial Adderall XR dose: The Adderall XR dose initially is typically 5 mg, and a maximum dose should not exceed 30 mg taken per day.

Effectiveness of Concerta Vs Adderall

Both Concerta and Adderall are highly effective treatments for ADHD. Still, their effectiveness can vary depending on factors like the individual’s body chemistry, how they metabolize the medication, and their specific needs. 

Concerta Vs Adderall for Adults

In adults, Concerta can be chosen due to its long-lasting action in patients with ADHD. Concerta may last up to 10-12 hours, which means that a person can treat their symptoms with a morning dose. Adderall, however, might involve taking several doses in a day, or not less if you take an immediate-release type.

Concerta Vs Adderall for Children

Extended-release Concerta is normally well-tolerated in children since it can be used to control the symptoms during school hours. Another variant that might be effective is Adderall XR, but not all children must take the second dose in the afternoon when it is inconvenient. These two medicines are said to improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity and impulsiveness in children.

Duration of Effects: Concerta Vs Adderall

Concerta has a duration of around 10-12 hours, making it suited for school days or workdays. It has day-long, reliable effects and does not require an extra dose.

Adderall, particularly the immediate-release form, takes 4-6 hours. The long-acting form, however, is capable of lasting up to 12 hours, comparable to Concerta, according to some people.

Final Thoughts on Concerta Vs Adderall at Visalia Recovery Center

As we know, it is both a personal decision and a journey that should be considered and met with wisdom and maturity in choosing an ADHD medication at Visalia Recovery Center. Concerta and Adderall may be utilized interchangeably in the course of treating ADHD, but the use of either medicine will be determined by your needs, lifestyle, and how your body reacts to the drugs.

It is always wise to consult with a healthcare professional when in need of guidance on which medication may be best to take or administer to an individual. Visalia Recovery Center is familiar with helping ADHD patients, as far as obtaining the correct treatment regimen.

Do you require assistance in the treatment of ADHD? Contact Visalia Recovery Center today! 

FAQs

What are the common side effects of Concerta and Adderall?

Insomnia, lack of appetite, and headache are the two possible outcomes of the two drugs. Dry mouth and an accelerated heartbeat might also be the consequences of Adderall, and nervousness and stomach discomfort might be those of Concerta.

How do Concerta and Adderall dosages differ for children and adults?

Concerta starts at 18 mg in both adults and children, compared to Adderall, which begins at 5mg in adults and 2.5 mg in children. These doses are adjusted based on factors such as age, weight, and individual response.

What are the considerations for using Concerta vs Adderall in adults and children?

Concerta starts at 18 mg in both adults and children, compared to Adderall, which begins at 5mg in adults and 2.5 mg in children. These doses are relative to the age, weight, and perception.

Which medication is more effective: Concerta or Adderall?

Both of these are efficient in ADHD management. Concerta is better suited for situations where steady, long-term control is needed, while Adderall can provide more immediate relief.

How do the durations of effects compare between Concerta and Adderall?

The duration of Concerta typically lasts 10-12 hours, providing extended symptom control throughout the day. In contrast, Adderall IR lasts 4-6 hours, while Adderall XR can last up to 12 hours. Both medications offer long-lasting effects, but Concerta tends to provide a steadier release throughout the day.