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Ritalin vs Adderall: What's the Difference?

  • Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC
  • Modified:
  • Reading Time: 12 minutes
  • Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC
  • Last Update:
  • Reading Time: 12 minutes

Explore the key similarities and differences between Ritalin and Adderall—ADHD medications—including their uses, side effects, dosages, and effectiveness.

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If you are diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), your doctor will likely prescribe a stimulant. This medication can help you manage your symptoms. Ritalin and Adderall are two of the most commonly prescribed stimulants.

They work by adjusting the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain, which are key players in attention and focus. While not everyone reacts the same way to these medications, around 80% of people with ADHD find that stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin help them ease their symptoms.

Even doctors struggle to agree on the best dosage and stimulant. This often leads to a trial-and-error method. Take Adderall, for example.

If it’s your first choice but doesn’t work as expected or causes side effects, doctors often adjust the prescription. They do this until they find the best option for you.

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Composition & Common Brand Names

What Are Ritalin and Adderall?

Ritalin is the brand name for methylphenidate, a central nervous system stimulant. Its effects are stronger than those of coffee but not as strong as those of amphetamines. Doctors usually prescribe Ritalin for kids diagnosed with attention ADHD or ADD (attention deficit disorder).

Here are a few more brand names that belong to this group:
  • Jornay™
  • Focalin®
  • Quillichew™
  • Concerta®
  • Adhansia™
  • Methylin®
  • Aptensio™
  • Quillivant®
  • Contempla™
  • Daytrana®
  • Metadate®
  • Azstarys™

Adderall is made from two primary substances: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. When they team up, they can seriously improve your focus and mental performance.

Amphetamines have been widely used to treat ADHD in the U.S. since the 1960s. They have a long history of helping people manage their symptoms well. Besides Adderall, other amphetamine-derived medications are also prescribed to manage ADHD, such as:

  • Zenzedi®
  • Vyvanse®
  • ProCentra®
  • Mydayis™
  • Dyanavel®
  • Evekeo®
  • Dexedrine®
  • Adzenys™
  • Desoxyn®
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Mechanisms of Action

How Do Ritalin and Adderall Work?

Picture your brain as a tangled web. It is where neurotransmitters (that act like tiny mail carriers) shuttle messages back and forth. They travel along routes called synapses.

If you have ADHD, it’s like mail carriers are having trouble delivering messages. This can lead to mixed or incomplete signals. This is connected to a process known as “synaptic reuptake.”

Both Ritalin and Adderall are great at blocking the reuptake of neurotransmitters, which helps your brain work better, but they go about it in different ways. Ritalin works by primarily targeting dopamine and norepinephrine, which can help with focus and attention.

Adderall, on the other hand, not only does that but also blocks “autoreceptors,” letting even more neurotransmitters flow. Plus, it encourages the release of dopamine, which amps up the overall signal in the brain.

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Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, & Abuse Potential

What Are the Differences Between Adderall and Ritalin?

Both substances have similar functions, but there are some key differences worth noting, such as:

1. Chemical Composition

Ritalin and Adderall are not the same. They have different active ingredients. This difference affects how they treat various issues.

Ritalin contains methylphenidate, which has the chemical formula C14H19NO2. It is typically available as methylphenidate hydrochloride in pharmaceutical formulations.

Adderall, on the other hand, is a combination of four amphetamine salts:

  • Dextroamphetamine sulfate
  • Dextroamphetamine saccharate
  • Amphetamine aspartate
  • Amphetamine sulfate

Adderall is usually made with a 1:1 mix of four salts in its immediate-release form. The chemical formula for amphetamine is C9H13N. Dextroamphetamine has the same formula, C9H13N, when we talk about its base form.. HCl represents its hydrochloride salt form. Both amphetamine and dextroamphetamine belong to a class of drugs known as amphetamines, which are central nervous system stimulants.

2. Approved Uses

Ritalin is mainly used to treat ADHD. It is not often used for narcolepsy. However, the FDA has approved Adderall for both conditions.

Additionally, Ritalin is more frequently used for children. It is typically the primary choice for treating ADHD in younger patients, but Adderall works well for both adults and children with ADHD.

3. Dosage and Administration

Ritalin and Adderall are available in both immediate-release and long-acting/extended-release forms.

Strengths

Ritalin Tablets:

  • 5 mg
  • 10 mg
  • 20 mg

Ritalin LA (for children aged 6 to 12 years):

  • 10 mg
  • 20 mg
  • 30 mg
  • 40 mg

Adderall Tablets:

  • 5 mg
  • 7.5 mg
  • 10 mg
  • 12.5 mg
  • 15 mg
  • 20 mg
  • 30 mg

Adderall XR (extended-release):

  • 5 mg
  • 10 mg
  • 15 mg
  • 20 mg
  • 25 mg
  • 30 mg

Starting Doses for ADHD

  • Ritalin Adults: 10 mg twice (or three times) per day
  • Children and teenagers (6 years and older): 5 mg twice daily
  • Children (6 to 12 years, Ritalin LA): 20 mg once daily

Adderall Adults:

  • 5 mg once or twice daily
  • 20 mg once daily (Adderall XR)

Children and teens (6 to 17 years):

  • 5 mg once or twice daily
  • 10 mg, take once per day (Adderall XR)

Children – 3 to 5 years:

  • 2.5 mg once daily

Maximum Total Daily Dosage for ADHD

  • Ritalin Adults: 60 mg
  • Children and teenagers (6 years and older): 60 mg
  • Children – 6 to 12 years, Ritalin LA): 60 mg

Adderall Adults:

  • 40 mg (tablets)
  • 20 mg (Adderall XR)

Teens (13 to 17 years):

  • 40 mg (tablets)
  • 20 mg (Adderall XR)

Children – 6 to 12 years:

  • 40 mg (tablets)
  • 30 mg (Adderall XR)

Children – 3 to 5 years: 40 mg is the maximum dosage. Be careful with this amount. Always consider individual needs and clinical judgment.

4. Common Side Effects

Both Adderall and Ritalin are stimulants and, therefore, have similar side effects. Parents of children with ADHD should be aware that these medications can sometimes affect growth. That said, each medication also comes with its own specific side effects that the other may not trigger. However, typical side effects of Adderall include:

  • Heartburn
  • Difficulty falling asleep/staying asleep
  • Weight loss
  • Muscle tightness
  • Nervousness
  • Back pain
  • Irritability
  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Erratic movement of a specific area of the body.
  • Restlessness
  • Heavy sweating
  • Drowsiness
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Decreased sexual desire

Although Adderall is associated with many of the same symptoms as Ritalin, the drug can also cause some less frequently seen side effects. These can include confusion, painful menstrual cramps, constipation, shivering, teeth grinding, and difficulties with coordination. Adderall has its own distinct side effects to be aware of, too, including:

  • Dry mouth
  • Vomiting
  • Anxiety
  • Fever
  • Nausea
  • Joint pains
  • Dry mouth
  • Vomiting
  • Anxiety
  • Fever
  • Nausea
  • Loss of strength
  • Back pain
  • Shivering
  • Stomach pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Bladder pain or urinary issues
  • Headache
  • Cold symptoms, including runny nose, chills, cough, and sore throat
  • Loss of appetite

5. Potential for Abuse and Addiction

Ritalin (Methylphenidate) is a Schedule II drug. This means it has a high risk of misuse and addiction. The risk of abuse increases when people choose to crush and inhale the substance.

Adderall is a Schedule II restricted controlled substance. This means it can be misused and lead to addiction. Many people abuse it to boost their grades or just for fun.

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Similarities in Uses, Mechanisms, & Side Effects

Which One Is More Effective?

Research in Lancet Psychiatry shows that adults often prefer Adderall. In contrast, Ritalin is commonly given to children and adolescents. However, there isn’t much good evidence comparing the two. Meaning there are few meaningful differences between the various approved ADHD drugs.

Personal preferences, side effects, and individual requirements determine the ideal option. You must work closely with your healthcare professional to decide which drug is most successful for you.

Which One Is Safer to Use?

It’s crucial to take both drugs exactly as prescribed by your doctor since they might become addicted. Taking excessive amounts or abusing them might lead to psychological and physical dependence since they are stimulants. Always ask your healthcare practitioner for guidance!

What Are the Similarities Between Ritalin and Adderall?

Here are some similarities between Ritalin and Adderall:

1. Both Are Stimulants

Both of these are stimulant drugs, meaning they boost activity in the central nervous system. They can amp up your alertness, focus, and energy by raising the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain.

2. Both Can Be Used to Treat ADHD and Narcolepsy

If you or a child have been diagnosed with ADHD, you may be prescribed a stimulant such as Ritalin or Adderall. The Food and Drug Administration has approved these drugs to help with symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, and restlessness. They are also used to treat narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes too much daytime sleepiness.

Sometimes, doctors use Ritalin and Adderall for other mental health issues. This includes anxiety and depression, especially in people with ADHD. Researchers are also exploring their potential uses in treating bipolar disorder. A recent review of studies suggests that CNS stimulants, such as Adderall and Ritalin, might help treat bipolar disorder.

Sometimes, people use Ritalin and Adderall for non-medical reasons, like trying to lose weight or improve cognitive skills. Many believe these drugs can enhance learning and memory, but that idea is often misleading. However, these off-label uses can lead to a substantial increase in the potential for drug misuse or abuse.

Evidence suggests that in individuals without ADHD, these stimulant medications do not yield improvements in cognitive function. In fact, they might even have detrimental effects, negatively affecting memory, attention, and general brain performance.

3. Both Can Cause Similar Side Effects

Both Ritalin and Adderall might cause side effects, but not everyone will have them. Generally, some of these side effects are mild and can fade away with time. Please discuss any of these potential side effects with your healthcare provider.

  • Dry mouth
  • Elevated heart rate
  • Changes in libido
  • Abdominal pain
  • Agitation
  • Restlessness
  • Nausea/vomiting
  • Heart palpitations
  • Blurry vision
  • Reduced weight gain or weight loss
  • Insomnia
  • Depressed mood
  • Tremor
  • Priapism (prolonged or painful erections)
  • Abnormal movements

Adjusting the dose or the medication’s timing usually helps manage some of these typical side effects.

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Factors Influencing the Choice Between Medications

How to Choose Between Ritalin and Adderall?

It’s not straightforward to determine whether Ritalin or Adderall will be more effective for you or your child. Different individuals may respond differently—some may benefit more from Ritalin, while others may find Adderall more effective. At this time, research hasn’t definitively established which medication tends to work best for specific individuals. Finding the proper medication involves three important factors for everyone:

  • The body’s ability to absorb the medication
  • The effectiveness of crossing the blood-brain barrier
  • The speed at which the body metabolizes

Healthcare providers depend on their expertise to select the most suitable medication for each individual. They check how well it works over time. If it isn’t working well or if the side effects are too strong, they may change the dosage. They might also look at different ways to give the medication or consider a different one entirely.

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Non-Stimulant Medications, Behavioral Therapy, & Natural Remedies

What Are the Alternatives to Ritalin and Adderall?

If you are looking for alternatives to Ritalin and Adderall for ADHD, there are many options to explore. Non-stimulant drugs, behavioral therapy, and several natural approaches may offer relief. Consider these options:

1. Non-Stimulant Medications

If you find it hard to tolerate stimulant medications or want to avoid them, non-stimulant options can help. Here are some popular alternatives to Ritalin and Adderall you might consider:

  • Atomoxetine (Strattera)
  • Guanfacine (Intuniv)
  • Clonidine (Kapvay)

2. Behavioral Therapy

Systematic approaches for modifying habits and developing coping abilities are at the foundation of behavioral therapy. It often works well with medicine. It can also be helpful on its own, especially for people with mild ADHD symptoms. Here are some frequent choices in behavioral therapy:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is designed to help you notice and change negative thought patterns and actions. For a child with ADHD, CBT often emphasizes skills like getting organized, managing their time well, and coming up with effective solutions to problems.
  • Parent Training and Support: Teaching parents how to control their child’s conduct effectively can greatly improve their child’s behavior and their relationship with them. Positive reinforcement, clear rules, and consistent penalties are all effective methods.
  • Social Skills Training: If you have a child with ADHD, social skills training aims to help them become more socially adept, especially those with ADHD who can find it difficult to build connections. Through role-playing and a range of activities, the program helps children develop stronger communication skills and interpersonal relationships.

3. Natural Remedies

You might want to look into some natural ways to help with ADHD symptoms. A few popular remedies you can think about include:

  • Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Techniques like mindfulness meditation, yoga, body scans, and deep breathing exercises have been shown to enhance focus and reduce stress. They’re especially great for folks with ADHD, as they help create a more centered and peaceful state of mind.
  • Supplements: Some herbal remedies, including ginkgo biloba, ginseng, and passionflower, have been explored for their potential to help with ADHD symptoms. Still, it’s super important to consult with a healthcare professional before diving into any herbal treatments since they might interact with other meds you’re on.
  • Diet: Research has shown that a healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids—like those found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts—might help ease ADHD symptoms. Moreover, avoiding certain food additives and allergens, such as artificial colors and preservatives, could also help.
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Practical Treatment Strategies for Ritalin and Adderall Addiction

If you or someone you know has an addiction to Adderall or Ritalin, help is available. There are treatment options to consider. These options can be tailored to meet your specific needs. A successful recovery journey often includes a mix of therapy, support groups, and, if needed, medically supervised detox.

Connect with the Rolling Hills Recovery Center for complete drug addiction treatment. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to discover the treatment programs that could be right for you.

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Written By:

Geoffrey Andaria

Geoffrey Andaria mental health writer at rolling hills recovery center
Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Mental Health Writer

About Author:

Geoffrey Andaria is an experienced mental health content writer and editor. With a B.A. in English and Journalism, Geoffrey is highly educated in freelance articles and research. Having taken courses on social work, Geoffrey is adamant about providing valuable and educational information to individuals affected by mental health and the disease of addiction.

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr. Carl Williams Ph.D., LCADC

Carl Williams, medical content reviewer at rolling hills recovery center
Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Expert Contributor

About Reviewer:

Dr. Williams presently serves on the board of Directors for two non-profit service organizations. He holds a Master’s degree in Human Services from Lincoln University, Philadelphia, Pa, and a Ph.D. with a concentration in Clinical Psychology from Union Institute and University. In Cincinnati, Ohio. He is licensed to practice addictions counseling in both New Jersey and Connecticut and has a pending application as a practicing Psychologist in New Jersey.

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