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Desoxyn vs Adderall
Introduction
For patients diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or narcolepsy, certain drugs that alter the concentrations of compounds in the brain related to focus and alertness can help manage symptoms. Desoxyn and Adderall are two such drugs prescribed for these conditions. They each impact different neurotransmitters in the brain but both have effects on increasing focus and reducing impulsivity in patients with ADHD. Desoxyn is a potent central nervous system stimulant affecting levels of dopamine by acting as a dopamine releasing agent. On the other hand, Adderall is classified as an amphetamine type stimulant which not only influences dopamine but also norepinephrine levels, enhancing their effects.
Desoxyn vs Adderall Side By Side
| Attribute | Desoxyn | Adderall |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Desoxyn | Adderall |
| Contraindications | Should not be taken with MAOIs or if experiencing anxiety or agitation. | Should not be taken with MAOIs or if experiencing anxiety or agitation. |
| Cost | Brand: Around $1,800 for 60 tablets (5 mg). Generic: Between $350 and $400 for 60 capsules at the lowest dosages. | Brand: About $240-$300 for 30 tablets (20 mg). Generic: Around $.80 - .$90 per tablet or $25 - 27/month. |
| Generic Name | Methamphetamine | Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Increased risk of mental/mood changes (such as agitation, aggression, mood swings, depression, hallucinations), cardiovascular issues. | Signs of allergic reaction, chest pain or pressure, irregular heartbeats, changes in mood, hallucinations, uncontrolled movements, circulation problems. |
| Severe Drug Interactions | Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). | Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). |
| Typical Dose | 5–25 mg/day | 5-60 mg per day, divided into two or three doses. |
What is Desoxyn?
Methamphetamine (the generic name for Desoxyn) was one of the first stimulant medications used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obesity. It has been approved by the FDA since 1943. Desoxyn increases levels of dopamine in the brain by stimulating its release, effectively "flooding" certain parts of the brain with this neurotransmitter for longer than usual. This results in increased focus and decreased appetite, which helps individuals with ADHD or obesity manage their conditions better.
On the other hand, Adderall is a mixture of different amphetamine salts that also works as a central nervous system stimulant for treating ADHD and narcolepsy. Adderall influences both dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters but has less pronounced effects on serotonin compared to SSRI antidepressants like Prozac.
While both Desoxyn and Adderall are effective at managing symptoms associated with ADHD, they have distinct differences in terms of side effects due to their pharmacological profiles. The influence of Desoxyn is primarily focused on dopamine while Adderall impacts multiple neurotransmitters including serotonin, making it likely to produce more diverse side effects.
What conditions is Desoxyn approved to treat?
Desoxyn and Adderall are both approved for the treatment of different variations of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy:
- ADHD in pediatric patients 6 years of age or older
- Narcolepsy, a chronic sleep disorder characterized by overwhelming daytime drowsiness and sudden attacks of sleep
In addition to these conditions, Adderall is sometimes used off-label for cognitive enhancement.
How does Desoxyn help with these illnesses?
Desoxyn, also known as methamphetamine, is a potent stimulant medication that works by increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. It does this by stimulating their release from nerve endings and blocking their reuptake into neurons which helps to maintain higher levels for longer periods of time. Both dopamine and norepinephrine are neurotransmitters - chemicals that act as messengers in the brain - with key roles in mood, motivation, attention and alertness among other functions.
In individuals diagnosed with conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), there may be an imbalance or inefficiency in these neurotransmitter systems. Therefore, by boosting dopamine and norepinephrine levels, Desoxyn can help patients manage symptoms of ADHD such as poor focus, impulsivity and hyperactivity.
On the other hand, Adderall contains amphetamine salts which similarly increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine but it also includes two types of amphetamines; dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine. The combination enhances its therapeutic effectiveness while potentially minimizing side effects compared to taking either type alone.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a brand name for the combination of amphetamine salts dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine. It acts as a central nervous system stimulant, meaning it increases levels of norepinephrine, dopamine, and to some extent serotonin in the brain by reducing their reabsorption. This helps increase attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in patients with ADHD. Adderall was first approved by the FDA in 1996.
Unlike Desoxyn (methamphetamine), which primarily affects dopamine, Adderall's impact on both dopamine and norepinephrine can be beneficial for treating both ADHD and narcolepsy. Its effect profile is also different from that of other stimulants like Desoxyn; it tends not to cause as much weight loss or insomnia (common side effects of methamphetamines). The combined effects on dopamine, norepinephrine & serotonin can make Adderall particularly effective in patients who do not respond well to drugs that act only on one neurotransmitter such as Desoxyn.
What conditions is Adderall approved to treat?
Adderall, a stimulant medication, is approved by the FDA for the treatment of:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), helping to increase attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in patients with ADHD.
- Narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep.
How does Adderall help with these illnesses?
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays several important roles in the brain and body. It's heavily involved in reward, motivation, memory, attention and even regulating body movements. If dopamine levels are too low or imbalanced it can result in disorders like ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Adderall works by increasing the availability of dopamine as well as norepinephrine within the neuronal synapses to help improve concentration and focus for those with ADHD. Its action on both these neurotransmitters also helps reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity associated with this condition. While Desoxyn also increases dopamine levels, its effect is more potent due to its resemblance to methamphetamine but tends to be reserved for cases where patients do not respond well to typical stimulant medications such as Adderall.
How effective are both Desoxyn and Adderall?
Both methamphetamine (Desoxyn) and mixed amphetamine salts (Adderall) are potent central nervous system stimulants that have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They were initially approved a few decades apart, with Adderall being the more recent introduction. These drugs work on similar neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, which makes them effective in managing symptoms of ADHD.
A 1975 double-blind clinical trial compared these two drugs directly; both medications exhibited comparable efficacy in reducing symptoms of hyperactivity and improving focus, along with similar safety profiles. The study found no significant difference in their effectiveness using various measures to assess improvement in ADHD symptoms among patients receiving either Desoxyn or Adderall.
A review published in 2008 revealed that methamphetamine has been shown to be effective from the first dose onwards at alleviating symptoms of ADHD while demonstrating a favourable side effect profile over many other stimulant medications. This study also reported its high tolerability across different age groups including children and adolescents. Methamphetamine was one of the earliest psychostimulant drugs developed for treating hyperkinetic disorders of childhood, now recognised as ADHD. An optimal daily dose is usually around 20-25 mg/day for most individuals.
On the other hand, a meta-analysis conducted in 2017 indicated that mixed amphetamine salts seem to have an efficacy similar to placebo when it comes to long-term use (>2 years), although they remain a first-line treatment option due to their proven short-term effectiveness. While research has often involved co-prescribing alongside non-stimulant treatments such as atomoxetine or guanfacine, data confirming its standalone efficacy is robust especially for short term treatment periods (<1 year). Nonetheless, evidence supporting Adderall's ability as significantly augmenting effects when combined with non-stimulant treatments remains generally lacking.
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At what dose is Desoxyn typically prescribed?
Oral dosages of Desoxyn for treating ADHD in pediatric patients range from 5–25 mg/day, but studies have shown that 5 mg/day is a sufficient starting dose for most children. If necessary, the dosage may be increased weekly by increments of 5mg. For Adderall, the typical starting dose is also lower, at around 2.5-10 mg/day for children and it can be gradually increased on a weekly basis if there's no improvement in symptoms. The maximum daily dosage should not exceed 40 mg (for Desoxyn) or 30mg (for Adderall), as exceeding these limits could lead to serious side effects.
At what dose is Adderall typically prescribed?
Adderall treatment typically begins with a dosage of 5-60 mg per day, divided into two or three doses. The first dose should be taken in the morning upon waking up, and subsequent doses (if prescribed) at intervals of about 4 to 6 hours apart. Dosages above this range are not recommended. If there is no response to the initial lower end dosage after a few weeks, your doctor may choose to incrementally increase it until an effective therapeutic level is reached. It's important to note that dosing can vary significantly based on individual needs and responses, so always follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully when taking Adderall.
What are the most common side effects for Desoxyn?
Common side effects of Desoxyn, a medication primarily used to treat ADHD and obesity, can include:
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Decreased appetite (anorexia)
- Tremors
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Erectile dysfunction or changes in sexual desire
- Nervousness, restlessness and mood swings
- Diarrhea or constipation
On the other hand, Adderall may cause similar side-effects but also includes:
- Anxiety
- Weight loss due to decreased appetite
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Abdominal pain and nausea.
It is important to note that both medications have the potential for misuse due to their stimulant properties. Always take these medications under supervision from a healthcare provider.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Desoxyn?
While Desoxyn and Adderall are both effective for treating ADHD, they have different potential side effects.
- For Desoxyn, it can lead to an increased risk of mental/mood changes (such as agitation, aggression, mood swings, depression, hallucinations) which may be serious.
- Signs of allergic reaction or severe skin reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling in your face or throat.
- Vision problems such as blurred vision or diplopia.
- Cardiovascular issues like fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat or chest pain could occur.
- Severe muscle stiffness/spasms/twitching might also happen.
- Neurological symptoms including overactive reflexes and coordination problems.
For Adderall:
- It might heighten the risk of mental/mood changes (like nervousness, uncontrollable movements/tics).
- Allergic reactions such as rash; itching/swelling especially on the face/tongue/throat); dizziness and trouble breathing are possible but rare.
- Circulatory system complications like irregular heartbeats/palpitations/fainting could occur.
- You may experience serotonin syndrome symptoms: restlessness/hallucinations/loss of coordination/fast heartbeat/severe nausea/vomiting/diarrhea/muscle twitching/high fever.
If you observe any severe signs from either medication seek immediate medical attention
What are the most common side effects for Adderall?
Adderall can lead to a variety of side effects, including:
- Dry mouth or unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Headache, dizziness
- Nervousness and restlessness
- Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Weight loss
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep (insomnia)
- Increased heart rate
- Sweating excessively -Anxiety or jitteriness.
It's also important to note that more serious side effects like chest pain, shortness of breath, excessive tiredness and weakness on one part of the body can occur. If you experience any severe symptoms while taking Adderall, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Adderall?
While generally safe and effective for many people, Adderall can occasionally cause serious side effects. These may include:
- Signs of allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Chest pain or pressure, irregular heartbeats
- Changes in mood such as aggression or paranoia
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
- New behaviours including thoughts of suicide
- Uncontrolled movement in the hands/feet/eyes/tongue/lips/jaw
- Circulation problems – numbness/pain/skin color changes/sensitivity to temperature in fingers/toes.
If you observe any of these signs after taking Adderall please stop usage immediately and consult with a healthcare professional.
Contraindications for Desoxyn and Adderall?
Desoxyn and Adderall, much like other stimulant medications, may worsen symptoms of anxiety or agitation in some individuals. If you notice your anxiety increasing or experience unusual restlessness or insomnia after taking these medications, seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Desoxyn nor Adderall should be taken if you are currently using, or have recently used monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). It's important to always disclose all the medications you're taking to your doctor; MAOIs will need about two weeks to clear from your body before it is safe to commence treatment with either Desoxyn or Adderall due to potentially hazardous drug interactions.
How much do Desoxyn and Adderall cost?
For the brand name versions of these drugs:
- The price of 60 tablets of Desoxyn (5 mg) averages around $1,800, which works out to approximately $30–$60/day, depending on your dose.
- The price for a pack of 30 tablets Adderall (20 mg) is about $240-$300, working out to roughly $8–$10 per day.
Thus if you are in the higher dosage range for Desoxyn (i.e.,15 mg/day or higher), then brand-name Adderall is less expensive on a per-day treatment basis. Please note that cost should not be the primary consideration in determining which drug is right for you.
As far as generic versions go:
- Methamphetamine HCL (generic version of Desoxyn) costs between $350 and $400 for 60 capsules at the lowest dosages; this works out to approximately between $6 and $7 per day.
- Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine salts (generic version of Adderall), on the other hand, can be found at prices as low as about $.80 - .$90 per tablet or around $25 - 27/month if prescribed once-daily dosing.
Popularity of Desoxyn and Adderall
Methamphetamine, in generic form as well as under the brand name Desoxyn, was estimated to have been prescribed to a relatively small number of people in the US in 2020. Methamphetamine accounted for less than 1% of prescriptions for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treatment and weight loss in the US. Its use is generally considered rare due to its high potential for abuse and dependency.
In contrast, mixed amphetamine salts including brand versions such as Adderall were prescribed to approximately 16 million people in the USA during 2020. In terms of ADHD treatments, Adderall accounts for just over one-third of all prescriptions making it one of the most commonly-prescribed medications on the market today. The prevalence of Adderall has been increasing steadily since its introduction into mainstream medical practice.
Conclusion
Both Desoxyn (methamphetamine) and Adderall (a combination of amphetamine salts) are potent psychostimulants used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and have been supported by numerous clinical studies indicating their effectiveness over placebo treatments. In some cases, these medications may be combined or switched depending on patient response, but such decisions should always be under careful supervision from a physician due to their contraindications. Owing to their different compositions, with Desoxyn being a single entity methamphetamine and Adderall being a mixture of several forms of amphetamines, they may be prescribed under varying circumstances.
Desoxyn is typically considered when other first-line ADHD stimulant medications like Adderall do not provide satisfactory results or cause intolerable side effects. Both drugs are available in generic form which can offer significant cost savings for patients paying out-of-pocket.
The onset period varies between individuals so effects might not be noticeable immediately after starting either medication. The side effect profiles for both drugs include potential cardiovascular risks, insomnia issues as well as appetite suppression; however, it's worth noting that Desoxyn has more stringent control measures due its higher risk profile compared to Adderall. It's critical for patients taking these medications to closely monitor changes in mood or behavior and seek immediate medical attention if experiencing worsening symptoms related to mental health.
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Refrences
- Seeman, P., & Madras, B. K. (1998, September 1). Anti-hyperactivity medication: methylphenidate and amphetamine. Molecular Psychiatry. Springer Science and Business Media LLC.http://doi.org/10.1038/sj.mp.4000421
- Faraone, S. V. (2007, August 23). Stimulant therapy in the management of ADHD: mixed amphetamine salts (extended release). Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy. Informa UK Limited.http://doi.org/10.1517/14656566.8.13.2127
- Fitzgerald, K. T., & Bronstein, A. C. (2013, February). Adderall® (Amphetamine-Dextroamphetamine) Toxicity. Topics in Companion Animal Medicine. Elsevier BV.http://doi.org/10.1053/j.tcam.2013.03.002
- Greenhill, L. L., Pliszka, S., & Dulcan, M. K. (2002, February). Practice Parameter for the Use of Stimulant Medications in the Treatment of Children, Adolescents, and Adults. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Elsevier BV.http://doi.org/10.1097/00004583-200202001-00003
- Cody, J. T., Valtier, S., & Nelson, S. L. (2003, October 1). Amphetamine Enantiomer Excretion Profile Following Administration of Adderall. Journal of Analytical Toxicology. Oxford University Press (OUP).http://doi.org/10.1093/jat/27.7.485