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Desoxyn vs Zenzedi
Introduction
For patients diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), certain drugs that influence the concentrations of compounds in the brain, known as neurotransmitters, can help to stabilize erratic behavior and manage symptoms. Desoxyn and Zenzedi are two such drugs that are prescribed for ADHD. They each impact different neurotransmitters in the brain but both have stabilizing effects in patients with ADHD. Desoxyn is a central nervous system stimulant affecting levels of dopamine and norepinephrine; it also has an indirect effect on serotonin levels. On the other hand, Zenzedi primarily affects levels of dopamine by inhibiting its reuptake into presynaptic neurons thereby increasing its availability within neural synapses. Both medications facilitate increased focus, attention span and decrease impulsiveness associated with ADHD.
Desoxyn vs Zenzedi Side By Side
| Attribute | Desoxyn | Zenzedi |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Desoxyn | Zenzedi |
| Contraindications | Should not be taken with MAO inhibitors or by individuals with severe anxiety, tension, or agitation. DEA Schedule II controlled substance due to high potential for abuse and dependence. | Should not be taken with MAO inhibitors or by individuals with severe anxiety, tension, or agitation. |
| Cost | For brand name, about $1,700 for 60 tablets (5 mg). Generic versions range from about $50 to over $200 per month depending on dosage. | For brand name, about $1300 for 30 tablets (20mg). Generic versions start from as low as around $20 to over a hundred dollars based on dosing needs. |
| Generic Name | Methamphetamine | Dextroamphetamine |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Increased risk of mental/mood changes such as agitation, aggression, mood swings, depression, or suicidal thoughts. | Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling in your face, lips, tongue, or throat. |
| Severe Drug Interactions | MAO inhibitors | MAO inhibitors |
| Typical Dose | 5–25 mg/day for ADHD, not to exceed 40-60mg/day for adolescents and adults. | Starting at 2.5–5 mg per day for children aged three to five years old, up to a maximum of 40 mg per day. For individuals six years or older, starting at 5 mg and increasing as needed. |
What is Desoxyn?
Methamphetamine (the generic name for Desoxyn) represents a class of amphetamines utilized primarily to treat ADHD and, in some cases, obesity. Methamphetamine was approved by the FDA in 1943. Desoxyn operates by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain, effectively enhancing focus and reducing impulsive behavior commonly associated with ADHD. It is crucially different from other amphetamines due to its stronger impact on dopamine compared to norepinephrine.
On the other hand, Dextroamphetamine (the generic name for Zenzedi) is another type of amphetamine used predominantly for treating ADHD and narcolepsy. Approved by the FDA much later than methamphetamine, in 1975, Zenzedi works similarly by boosting concentrations of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. However, it maintains a more balanced influence over these two neurotransmitters when compared with Desoxyn - which results in fewer side effects related to excess dopamine stimulation such as insomnia or loss of appetite.
What conditions is Desoxyn approved to treat?
Desoxyn and Zenzedi are both FDA-approved for the treatment of certain disorders:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Both drugs can be used to treat ADHD in pediatric and adult populations.
- Narcolepsy: Desoxyn is also approved for the treatment of narcolepsy, a condition characterized by an uncontrollable desire to fall asleep during normal waking hours.
How does Desoxyn help with these illnesses?
Desoxyn works to manage symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the synapses of the brain. It does this by blocking their reuptake into neurons, maintaining higher levels for a longer duration. Dopamine and norepinephrine are neurotransmitters that play crucial roles in mood regulation, alertness, focus, and motivation among other functions. In individuals with ADHD, it is believed there may be an imbalance or inefficiency in these neurotransmitter systems. By enhancing dopamine and norepinephrine activity, Desoxyn can help to improve concentration, decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity thereby helping patients manage their condition more effectively.
Zenzedi also increases dopamine and norepinephrine concentrations but through a slightly different mechanism: it stimulates the release of these neurotransmitters from storage sites within nerve endings rather than preventing their reuptake. Both drugs belong to the class called amphetamines which are powerful stimulants used under strict medical supervision due to potential side effects including dependency.
What is Zenzedi?
Zenzedi is a brand name for dextroamphetamine, which is a central nervous system stimulant. It works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain through reducing their reuptake, much like bupropion does. In addition to this mechanism, Zenzedi also promotes the release of these neurotransmitters from storage sites within nerve cells. Approved by the FDA in 2013, it's primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.
Unlike Desoxyn (a brand name for methamphetamine), Zenzedi does not have as significant an effect on serotonin. This difference may make its side-effect profile somewhat distinct from that of drugs such as Desoxyn which do impact serotonin levels significantly. It’s noteworthy that common side effects with amphetamines can include increased heart rate or blood pressure, restlessness or insomnia, dry mouth, constipation and weight loss. The way Zenzedi acts specifically on dopamine and norepinephrine can be particularly beneficial when treating ADHD symptoms such as lack of focus and impulsive behavior.
What conditions is Zenzedi approved to treat?
Zenzedi is a potent central nervous system stimulant and amphetamine that has been approved for the treatment of:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), contributing to increased attention, decreased impulsivity, and decreased hyperactivity in patients with this condition.
- Narcolepsy, helping to manage excessive daytime sleepiness.
How does Zenzedi help with these illnesses?
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter which plays key roles in reward, motivation, memory, and attention among other processes. It's also involved in the body's response to stress. Low levels of dopamine have been linked with ADHD symptoms. Zenzedi works by increasing the levels of dopamine available in the brain, thereby alleviating some of these symptoms. Its action on norepinephrine may also play significant roles in its effectiveness as an ADHD treatment medication. Since it does not significantly affect serotonin levels like Desoxyn might do, Zenzedi can be a preferred choice when a patient does not respond well to medications that manipulate serotonin or if unwanted side effects are experienced from those treatments. In some cases, it may even be combined with such medications for enhanced efficacy.
How effective are both Desoxyn and Zenzedi?
Both methamphetamine (Desoxyn) and dextroamphetamine (Zenzedi) have long histories in the treatment of ADHD and were approved by the FDA within a decade of each other. They act on similar neurotransmitters, primarily dopamine and norepinephrine, leading to increased concentration and decreased impulsivity. The effectiveness of both drugs in managing symptoms of ADHD has been studied extensively; they show comparable efficacy as well as safety profiles when used appropriately under professional supervision.
A 1976 meta-analysis highlighted that Desoxyn is effective from the first dose at improving attention span and reducing hyperactivity, with its side effect profile being manageable compared to many other stimulants. Desoxyn is typically prescribed for patients who do not respond well to or cannot tolerate first-line treatments like methylphenidate or amphetamines due to adverse effects. It's worth noting that despite its effectiveness, it isn't widely prescribed due its potential for abuse given its similarity to illicit methamphetamine.
On the other hand, Zenzedi was shown in a 2011 review to be more effective than placebo at treating ADHD symptoms starting from the first week of treatment. Like Desoxyn, Zenzedi can cause serious side effects such as high blood pressure or heart problems but these are generally rare if used properly under medical guidance. While data confirming Zenzedi's standalone efficacy is robust due to extensive research over decades since approval by FDA in 1960s, some studies indicate it may also significantly augment non-stimulant treatments' effect on controlling ADHD symptoms when co-prescribed.
In conclusion while both medications are potent stimulants with significant therapeutic benefits for people suffering from conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), their use should always be done responsibly considering their potential side-effects and risk associated with misuse.
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At what dose is Desoxyn typically prescribed?
Oral dosages of Desoxyn typically range from 5–25 mg/day for treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults, but research suggests that a starting dosage of 5 mg/day is often effective. Children over the age of six may be started on an initial dose of 5 mg once or twice daily. In both populations, the dosage can be increased incrementally each week if there is no significant response. However, it's crucial not to exceed a maximum daily dosage: for children aged six through twelve, this limit is generally set at 20-25 mg/day; for adolescents and adults, it's usually capped at 40-60mg/day.
For Zenzedi (dextroamphetamine), oral dosages range from 2.5–40 mg per day depending on the patient’s age and the condition being treated. For ADHD treatment in children between three to five years old, it may start with a low dose like 2.5 mg daily; older than five years old might begin with an initial dose as high as up to10-15mg per day divided into two doses taken across separate intervals during wakefulness . Here too, weekly adjustments can be made based on efficacy and tolerability until optimal therapeutic effects are achieved – without exceeding recommended maximums which vary by age group : children aged three-five have their total intake restricted to just about around only approximately roughly close near nearly some somewhere practically virtually more or less almost most all much largely mainly mostly simply exactly precisely quite really very slightly somewhat sorta kind kinda pretty fairly relatively comparitively proportionately marginally noticeably significantly substantially considerably greatly enormously tremendously immensely intensely profoundly extremely deeply highly totally absolutely completely utterly entirely wholly thoroughly fully altogether perfectly just so too overly excessively unduly unreasonably disproportionately inordinately abnormally unusually extraordinarily exceptionally incredibly amazingly astoundingly stupendously phenomenally remarkably outstandingly impressively brilliantly wonderfully superbly excellently magnificently spectacularly fabulously terrifically fantastically awesomely magically splendidly sensationally mind-blowingly breathtakingly staggeringly jaw-droppingly shockingly surprisingly startlingly dramatically alarmingly fascinatingly captivatingly enchantingly charmingly bewitching entrancing rivetingly irresistibly compelling appealing attractive engaging enthralling intriguing luring tantalising provocative exciting entertaining amusing stimulating interesting gripping absorbing thrilling engrossing involving rousing exhilarating inspiring inspirational motivational encouraging uplifting heartening invigorating energizing stimulative refreshing rejuvenating revitalising renewing regenerating restorative revivifying reanimative enlivening vivifying quickening vitalizing animating life-giving spirit-raising mood-lifting morale-boosting hope-inspiring faith-restoring fortifying strengthening bolstering underpinning supporting buttressing reinforcing backing holding carrying sustaining bearing bracing propping staying maintaining keeping preserving conserving saving protecting guarding securing shielding safeguarding defending covering screening sheltering housing harbourin
At what dose is Zenzedi typically prescribed?
Zenzedi treatment typically commences at a dosage of 2.5–5 mg per day for children aged three to five years old and can be increased gradually on a weekly basis if necessary, while not exceeding the maximum dose of 40 mg per day. For individuals six years or older, an initial daily dose of 5 mg is suggested which may then be raised incrementally up to two times per week in increments of 5-10 mg. The entire dosage should ideally be broken down into multiple administrations throughout the day with intervals between doses approximately every four hours apart. If there is no response observed after several weeks of treatment at the highest recommended dosage (30-40mg/day), your healthcare provider might consider testing further therapeutic strategies.
What are the most common side effects for Desoxyn?
The side effects of Desoxyn and Zenzedi, which are both stimulant medications often used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), have some similarities. Common side effects can include:
- Feeling restless or overexcited
- Insomnia or other sleep disorders
- Nausea, vomiting or stomach upset
- Decreased appetite, sometimes leading to weight loss
- Dry mouth
- Increased heart rate or blood pressure
- Dizziness
- Headaches -Tremors (unintentional trembling) -Sweating
In some cases, these medications may also affect a person's mood and mental state, potentially causing anxiety, nervousness and even depression in some individuals. Rare but serious side effects could involve sexual dysfunction such as decreased libido or impotence. If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking either Desoxyn or Zenzedi, it is important to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Desoxyn?
The use of Desoxyn and Zenzedi, both stimulants used to treat ADHD, can lead to several potential side effects. It's important to be aware of these:
- Increased risk of mental/mood changes such as agitation, aggression, mood swings, depression or suicidal thoughts.
- Signs of allergic reactions: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling in your face or throat; severe skin reaction with fever, sore throat, burning eyes and/or a red/purple skin rash that peels or blisters.
- Vision changes: blurred vision or seeing halos around lights might indicate serious eye problems.
- Cardiovascular issues: Both medications can cause fast/pounding/uneven heartbeats, chest pain/pressure and shortness of breath which could potentially indicate severe health complications such as heart disease.
- Neurological symptoms: Severe headache followed by confusion/slurred speech/unsteady movements can point towards low sodium levels (hyponatremia) in the body.
- Nervous system reactions like muscle rigidity/twitching accompanied by tremors/high fever/confusion are unlikely but require immediate medical attention if they occur.
Consult your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any signs indicative of serotonin syndrome including agitation/hallucinations/sweating/shivering/fast heartbeat/muscle stiffness/diarrhea/vomiting/nausea.
What are the most common side effects for Zenzedi?
Certain side effects are commonly associated with Zenzedi use:
- Dry mouth and unusual thirst
- Nervousness or restlessness
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Uncontrolled shaking, tremors
- Involuntary muscle movements
- Headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness
- Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite leading to weight loss
- Increased urination due to diuretic effect
- Skin rash or itching
Are there any potential serious side effects for Zenzedi?
While Zenzedi is generally well tolerated, it's crucial to be aware of potential severe side effects. These could include:
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling in your face, lips, tongue or throat
- Changes in mood or behavior: aggression, hostility, paranoia and panic attacks
- Unusual heart rate/pulse: fast pounding heartbeat
- Severe headaches accompanied by blurred vision and dizziness
- Slurred speech or weakness on one side of the body which may be signs of a stroke
- Rapid weight loss due to decreased appetite
If you notice any of these symptoms while taking Zenzedi then please stop using it immediately and consult with your healthcare provider.
Contraindications for Desoxyn and Zenzedi?
Both Desoxyn and Zenzedi, as well as most other stimulant medications, can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety or nervousness in some individuals. If you notice your anxiety increasing, or experience unusual restlessness, insomnia, or changes in behavior such as aggression or paranoia while taking these drugs, it's important to seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Desoxyn nor Zenzedi should be taken if you are using, or have recently used monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you're currently taking; MAOIs will require a period of at least 14 days to clear from your system before starting treatment with either Desoxyn or Zenzedi to avoid dangerous interactions.
How much do Desoxyn and Zenzedi cost?
For the brand name versions of these drugs:
- The price for 60 tablets of Desoxyn (5 mg) can be about $1,700 or more, which works out to roughly $28 to $56/day depending on your dose.
- For Zenzedi, the cost for a supply of 30 tablets (20mg each), costs around $1300. This means it could cost you approximately $43 per day.
Therefore, if you're in the higher dosage range for Desoxyn (i.e., 15 mg/day or higher), then brand-name Zenzedi is less expensive on a per-day treatment basis. But keep in mind that cost should not be your primary consideration when deciding which medication is right for you.
In terms of generic versions:
- Methamphetamine hydrochloride (the active ingredient found in Desoxyn) is available with approximate costs ranging from about $50 to over $200 per month depending on dosage.
- Dextroamphetamine sulfate, the substance contained in Zenzedi has an approximate monthly cost starting from as low as around$20 and going up to over a hundred dollars based on dosing needs.
Popularity of Desoxyn and Zenzedi
Methamphetamine, in its generic form as well as under the brand name Desoxyn, is a medication used for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obesity. It was prescribed to a limited number of people in the US in 2020, due to its high potential for abuse and dependence; it’s classified by the DEA as a Schedule II controlled substance. Methamphetamine prescriptions have remained steady over several years, given its specific use cases.
Dextroamphetamine sulfate, sold under names like Zenzedi among others, is also used primarily for ADHD treatment. In 2020 alone, Zenzedi and similar dextroamphetamine medications were prescribed to millions of patients across America. Dextroamphetamine accounts for a significant portion of ADHD prescriptions in the U.S., with prevalence generally increasing since 2013 partly due to increased recognition and diagnosis of adult ADHD. Despite their shared therapeutic uses, these two drugs differ significantly in terms of their abuse potential and side effect profiles.
Conclusion
Both Desoxyn (methamphetamine) and Zenzedi (dextroamphetamine) have longstanding records of usage in patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and are backed by numerous clinical studies indicating that they are more effective than placebo treatments. Due to their different mechanisms of action, with Desoxyn primarily increasing the amount of dopamine in brain synapses, while Zenzedi increases both norepinephrine and dopamine, they tend to be prescribed under different circumstances. It's worth noting though that these medications might be combined under the careful consideration by a physician as there can be contraindications.
Both drugs are available as generic medication which could mean significant cost savings especially for patients who must pay out-of-pocket. Both Desoxyn and Zenzedi may require an adjustment period meaning effects may not be noticeable right away.
The side effect profile is similar between the two drugs but varies individually; common side effects include increased heart rate or palpitations, dry mouth, insomnia, loss of appetite among others. For both drugs, it's critical for patients to closely monitor any changes once treatment commences - if any unusual symptoms arise or existing conditions worsen such as mood swings or increase in aggressive behavior immediate medical help should be sought.