Focalin vs. Adderall: Similarities and Differences

In the contest of Focalin vs. Adderall for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, users should note that both medications are effective. Still, there are some differences in how long they work. You can find the information here if you are attempting to learn more about the similarities and other differences between these drugs. Your prescribing physician may offer other insight about these medications based on your health and condition. 

At Resurgence Behavioral Health, we treat a wide array of behavioral health and mental health conditions. Both of these drugs are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD. Both of these drugs can also be drugs of abuse. We offer a comprehensive range of treatment programs, including inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, aftercare, medical detox, dual diagnosis treatment, and medication-assisted treatment. 

Our treatment center features licensed clinicians with the expertise and experience to treat various mental and behavioral health conditions. It is known for its unique blend of medically traditional therapies, alternative treatment options, and holistic treatments that support addiction recovery. Together, these treatment modalities help clients build a strong recovery foundation to manage their conditions successfully. 

If you have a condition requiring our know-how, visit us for the support you need. If you are attempting to learn about these medications, you can read about their similarities and differences here. While both Focalin and Adderall are effective medications for the treatment of ADHD, one may be a better fit for you than the other.

What are Focalin and Adderall?

Focalin and Adderall are both medications that treat ADHD. Choosing between the drugs depends on a person’s condition and unique needs. Since both medications contain different active ingredients, there are bound to be differences. Focalin contains the active ingredient dexmethylphenidate. Adderall contains dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. The active ingredient in Focalin has a quicker-acting effect than Adderall, but it’s shorter lasting. Adderall requires fewer daily doses and still offers a longer duration of its effects. 

How Focalin and Adderall Work

Focalin and Adderall can both reduce the symptoms associated with ADHD. They improve impulse control and increase focus and alertness. The drugs are stimulants and boost certain chemicals in the brain to achieve their positive effects. Users experience improved attention and can better control their impulses to achieve more productive behaviors. Although prescribed to treat ADHD, these drugs are often abused — frequently by students who take them to ‘binge study’ and to increase their alertness and focus. Abuse of these drugs can lead to dependence and addiction. 

Similarities Between Focalin and Adderall

The chief similarities between Focalin and Adderall are that they are both prescribed to treat ADHD, they are both stimulants, and they both achieve similar effects like improved focus and impulse control. Both drugs are FDA-approved, and both may cause side effects that include reduced appetite, weight loss, headache, dizziness, digestive complaints, and insomnia. Additionally, both medications have extended-release forms. Despite their similarities, there are more differences between these two prescription drugs. 

Differences Between Focalin vs. Adderall

There are lots of differences between Focalin vs. Adderall. These include: 

• Adderall is also FDA-approved to treat narcolepsy.
• Adderall may be prescribed off-label to treat depression.
• Focalin acts faster than Adderall.
• Adderall lasts longer and with fewer doses each day than Focalin.
• Adderall may be prescribed to children as young as 3; Focalin can be prescribed to children as young as 6.
• Adderall appears to work better for adults.

Side effects between the two medications may also occur. For instance, Adderall may cause blurred vision. Focalin may cause changes in blood pressure. If you need more information about these differences, it’s best to consult with your physician or pharmacist. 

Choosing Between Focalin vs. Adderall

Your doctor will ultimately decide what drug to prescribe to you. If the side effects of one drug prove uncomfortable, your doctor may prescribe the other with better results. Both drugs are prescribed to children and adults. Both drugs are effective. However, you may need a more fast-acting medication. Or, you may need a medication that offers greater duration. Be sure to communicate your preferences to your clinician, as they may persuade your doctor to choose one drug over the other. 

Managing Side Effects and Risks

Side effects of Focalin and Adderall can be unpleasant. It’s always important to report side effects to your doctor and alert them if they increase in severity. Your doctor may advise you on coping with side effects or wish to change your prescription. 

There are risks associated with Focalin and Adderall. For instance, users can develop a dependence or addiction when taking these substances — and Adderall is even considered one of the 5 most addictive prescription medications. If you develop a tolerance to your dose, talk to your doctor. While an increase may be warranted, an increase can also pave the road to dependence and then addiction. Stimulant addiction is serious as it can heighten the risks for mental and physical health. Don’t take the risks lightly. Talk to your doctor or Resurgence  Behavioral Health if you feel like you’ve developed a dependence on either of these prescription medications. 

Addressing Concerns About Dependency and Abuse

If you think you may have developed a dependency on or addiction to either of these stimulants, you should seek an evaluation at Resurgence Behavioral Health. You can stop dependency and abuse in its tracks with professional help from our rehab center. If you have an addiction to Focalin or Adderall, our clinicians can help. We can recommend the ideal course of treatment for ADHD and substance abuse based on your needs. 

A substance addiction, even an addiction to a prescription medication, will cause your physical and mental health to deteriorate. Although substance addiction is a chronic condition, it can be effectively managed with abstinence and relapse prevention. Resurgence will help you develop the necessary strategies to manage your condition successfully. You can achieve lasting recovery from prescription drug addiction. The sooner you get help, the better. 

How Resurgence Behavioral Health Can Help

Call Resurgence Behavioral Health and let us help you put drug abuse in your past. You can rely on us to learn more about these medications and any other concerns you may have. We feature a team of dedicated medical professionals and addiction specialists. We’re happy to address your questions to help you make educated decisions about your treatment. 

As a leading treatment center, Resurgence Behavioral Health can meet you anywhere in your recovery process. We offer innovative treatments that have the backing of the medical community. We accept many different forms of insurance and offer financial options to help clients access the treatment they need. 
You can start your recovery journey immediately by calling Resurgence Behavioral Health today at 855-458-0050. Putting off the treatment you need is never a good idea. Your addiction could worsen. No matter how daunting treatment seems, you can find support daily when you enroll. Our Costa Mesa prescription drug rehab has helped many people achieve recovery. We can’t wait to help you, too. Contact us and discuss our enrollment programs and treatment options today. Now is the right time to regain control of your life and put drugs in your past.

David Rofofsky
After growing up in New York, David chose to get help with substance abuse in California because of the state's reputation for top-tier treatment. There, he found the treatment he needed to achieve more than nine years of recovery. He's been in the drug and alcohol addiction rehab industry for eight years and now serves as the Director of Admissions for Resurgence Behavioral Health. David remains passionate about the field because he understands how hard it is to pick up the phone and ask for help. However, once the call is made, someone's life can be saved.

Research | Editorial