With a medical diagnosis of narcolepsy or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, prescription medication manages the symptoms. Unfortunately, many of these prescription medications have addictive qualities. Take a closer look at Concerta vs Adderall to learn about the differences, the similarities, and whether it is possible to become dependent on these medications.
What is Concerta?
Concerta is the brand name for the generic medication methylphenidate. It is most commonly prescribed as a long-term treatment option for those with ADHD. It is a stimulant for the nervous system, and it can control the fidgeting and activity associated with ADHD.
Concerta comes in a variety of strengths, often ranging from 18mg to 54mg. It comes in an oral tablet with extended release, which means that it is taken once a day.
Concerta, even when taken appropriately, can lead to unpleasant side effects. Some of the most common include shortness of breath, chest pain and growth complications in children and teens. In men, Concerta can often cause painful erections that last for several hours.
Concerta is not recommended for certain individuals. If you have Tourette’s syndrome or even a family history of motor tics, then Concerta is not the right medication for you.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is also a brand name for a generic medication that mixes together dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine. It is also a nervous system drug, and it can control many of the side effects of ADHD. Like Concerta, Adderall is an extended-release medication, and it comes in tablet and capsule form.
Adderall causes many of the same side effects that Concerta can cause. However, Adderall is contraindicated for a wider group of people. You should not take Adderall if you have advanced cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure or a history of drug or alcohol addiction.
Concerta vs Adderall – Which is More Likely to Cause an Addiction?
It is possible to abuse both Concerta and Adderall. Since they are stimulants, users may take these prescription drugs in order to increase energy, stay awake or reduce appetite. However, they are not both addictive in the same way.
It is far, far easier to become chemically dependent on Adderall. Many Adderall users, even when prescribed Adderall by a doctor, go into withdrawal if they try to quit or cut back. For those worried about addiction, Concerta may be a slightly safer option.
Overcoming a Prescription Drug Addiction Safely
The question of Concerta vs Adderall may be a hard choice for those struggling with ADHD. For those addicted to a stimulant drug, however, there is only one safe choice: Addiction treatment. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery, clients can break free from stimulant drugs through all of the following:
- A holistic approach to recovery
- Addiction counseling
- Multiple Florida locations to choose from
- Behavioral therapy
- 24/7 monitoring and support during a medical detox program
The differences between Concerta vs Adderall may be minimal, but both can be damaging to your long-term health. Fortunately, you can break free from a stimulant drug addiction at Serenity House Detox & Recovery. Call 866-294-5306 to learn more about Florida locations in Fort Lauderdale and Jupiter.
