Your session is about to expire
Evekeo vs Adderall
Introduction
For patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), certain medications that alter the concentrations of neurotransmitters in the brain can help manage symptoms, including hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Evekeo and Adderall are two such drugs prescribed for ADHD. Both impact neurotransmitters but have slightly different effects on the brain.
Evekeo is an amphetamine sulfate that influences both dopamine and norepinephrine levels within the central nervous system, helping to improve focus and reduce hyperactive-impulsive behavior. Evekeo has a balanced release of levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine.
On the other hand, Adderall - a combination of four salts of amphetamine - primarily affects dopamine levels but also impacts norepinephrine to a lesser extent compared to Evekeo. It contains more dextroamphetamine than levoamphetamine which might contribute to its particularly potent effects on boosting attention span while reducing impulsive actions.
Evekeo vs Adderall Side By Side
| Attribute | Evekeo | Adderall |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Evekeo | Adderall |
| Contraindications | Should not be taken with MAO inhibitors or by individuals with worsening anxiety, jitteriness, restlessness, or panic attacks. | Should not be taken with MAO inhibitors or by individuals with worsening anxiety, jitteriness, restlessness, or panic attacks. |
| Cost | For brand name: around $380 for 60 tablets of 5 mg. Generic: approximately $0.50–$2 per day depending on dosage. | For brand name: approximately $220 for 30 capsules of 20 mg XR. Generic: averages between $1–$3 per day. |
| Generic Name | Amphetamine Sulfate | Mixed Amphetamine Salts |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Thoughts of suicide or self-harm, signs of allergic reactions, blurred vision or eye pain, rapid heart rate and palpitations, low potassium levels, severe reaction affecting the nervous system. | Signs of an allergic reaction, chest pain, trouble breathing, hallucinations or paranoia, circulation problems, aggressive behavior or hostility, seizures, changes in vision, uncontrollable movements. |
| Severe Drug Interactions | MAO inhibitors | MAO inhibitors |
| Typical Dose | 5-40 mg/day, starting dose of 5 mg/day | Starts at 5-10 mg per day, can be increased to 20-30 mg/day, not to exceed 40mg/day |
What is Evekeo?
Evekeo and Adderall are both approved by the FDA to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, marking a significant development in stimulant medications. Evekeo is an amphetamine sulfate that was first approved by the FDA in 2012. It increases levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters involved in attention, alertness, and energy levels—effectively keeping these chemicals active within the brain for longer periods than usual. On the other hand, Adderall—a combination of four different amphetamine salts—has been around since 1996. Like Evekeo, it also boosts dopamine and norepinephrine levels but has a more potent effect on these neurotransmitters due to its formulation diversity. As a result of this stronger influence on dopamine and norepinephrine, compared to Evekeo's relatively balanced effect on both transmitters without favoring either predominantly like Adderall does—it may have fewer side effects related to over-stimulation such as insomnia or anxiety.
What conditions is Evekeo approved to treat?
Evekeo is approved for the treatment of several conditions:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in pediatric patients 3 years and older
- Narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by excessive sleepiness, sleep paralysis, hallucinations, and in some cases sudden episodes of muscle weakness
- Exogenous obesity as a short term adjunct (a few weeks) in a regimen of weight reduction based on caloric restriction for patients with an initial body mass index greater than or equal to 30 kg/m² who have not responded to appropriate weight reducing regimen alone.
How does Evekeo help with these illnesses?
Evekeo functions to manage Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) by increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the synapses of the brain. This is achieved by preventing their reuptake into neurons, which allows these neurotransmitters to be available for longer periods. Dopamine and norepinephrine are chemical messengers in the brain that play crucial roles in attention, focus, motivation, and other cognitive processes. It is generally considered that individuals with ADHD have lower levels of these neurotransmitters. Therefore, by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels, Evekeo can mitigate symptoms of ADHD such as difficulty focusing or hyperactivity helping patients better manage their condition.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a brand name for the combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, which are central nervous system stimulants that affect chemicals in the brain and nerves contributing to hyperactivity and impulse control. These substances work by increasing the levels of dopamine (a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, movement, and attention) and norepinephrine in your brain by decreasing their reuptake into neurons. Adderall was first approved by the FDA in 1996. As Adderall is not a non-stimulant ADHD medication, it does not inhibit norepinephrine or dopamine from performing their natural function within the body's neurological systems. Its lack of inhibitory action means its side-effect profile differs from non-stimulant ADHD drugs such as Evekeo; specifically, it does not cause fatigue but can increase anxiety—a common side effect among stimulants medications like Adderall. The effects on dopamine and norepinephrine can be beneficial for treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), especially in patients who do not respond well to “typical” non-stimulant ADHD medications such as Evekeo.
What conditions is Adderall approved to treat?
Adderall is an FDA-approved medication for the treatment of:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Narcolepsy, which is a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep.
How does Adderall help with these illnesses?
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays roles in many processes in the body and brain, affecting focus, attention and reward-driven learning. It's also heavily involved in motor control and coordination. Low levels of dopamine have been implicated in conditions like ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Adderall works by increasing the levels of dopamine available within the neuronal synapses of the brain, thereby alleviating some symptoms associated with ADHD such as impulsivity, hyperactivity and lack of focus. Its action on norepinephrine may also play a role in its effectiveness as an ADHD medication. Since it directly influences dopamine levels more significantly than Evekeo—which contains both amphetamine salts but has a different ratio—it is often prescribed when patients do not respond well to other stimulant medications or require stronger symptom management.
How effective are both Evekeo and Adderall?
Both amphetamine sulfate (Evekeo) and mixed salts of a single-entity amphetamine product (Adderall) have established histories of success in treating patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and they were initially approved by the FDA several years apart. Since they act on different neurotransmitters, they may be prescribed under different circumstances. The effectiveness of Evekeo and Adderall in alleviating symptoms of ADHD was directly studied in various clinical trials; both drugs exhibited similar efficacy in managing symptoms as well as similar safety profiles.
A 2015 review indicated that Evekeo is effective at reducing ADHD symptoms starting from the first week of treatment, has a side effect profile comparable to other stimulant medications, and it appears to be well-tolerated even among pediatric populations. The same study reports that Evekeo has become an increasingly prescribed drug for ADHD due to its balanced ratio of dextroamphetamine to levoamphetamine which seems to produce fewer peripheral side effects.
In contrast, a 2007 meta-analysis demonstrated that Adderall seems more effective than placebo in treating ADHD, and appears similar in potency to other common stimulants. Nonetheless, Adderall is typically considered a top-line treatment option due its clinically significant symptom reduction across multiple domains including attentional control and hyperactive/impulsive behavior. Significant research on its use involves comparing monotherapy against other psychostimulants or non-stimulants so data confirming its efficacy as part of combination therapy is less robust than standalone treatments like methylphenidate or atomoxetine. Further evidence supports Adderall’s unique pharmacology wherein it contains four types of amphetamine salts which may offer broader therapeutic coverage throughout the day compared with single salt formulations such as Evekeo. However, this medication should always be used judiciously given potential adverse effects related to appetite suppression or sleep disturbances.
Find Top Clinical Trials
Choose from over 30,000 active clinical trials.
At what dose is Evekeo typically prescribed?
Oral dosages of Evekeo range from 5-40 mg/day, and studies have shown that a starting dose of 5 mg/day is adequate for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in most people. Children over the age of three may be started on this dosage. In either population, the dosage can be adjusted after one week if there is no significant improvement. The maximum daily dosage should not exceed 40 mg to avoid potential side effects. Similarly, Adderall doses also range between 5-40 mg per day but are typically divided into two doses throughout the day rather than taken all at once like Evekeo. Dosage increases with Adderall should also occur weekly until an effective therapeutic level has been reached.
At what dose is Adderall typically prescribed?
Adderall treatment usually begins with a dose of 5-10 mg per day for patients new to taking stimulants. This can then be increased, in weekly increments, up to a standard daily dosage of 20-30 mg, depending on the individual's response and tolerability. The total daily dosage may be divided into two doses, taken approximately 4 hours apart. In some cases, where there is no significant improvement or if symptoms persist after several weeks at this level, the doctor may consider increasing the dosage further. However, it should not exceed a maximum of 40mg/day unless specifically directed by your healthcare provider.
What are the most common side effects for Evekeo?
Common side effects of Evekeo may include:
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns
- Fatigue or general weakness
- Tremors, unintentional shaking
- Loss of appetite, anorexia symptoms
- Nausea and potential upset stomach
- Increased heart rate (palpitations)
- Dry mouth leading to excessive thirst
- Decreased libido (sex drive)
-Dizziness or lightheadedness
-Sweating more than usual
-Behavioral changes like mood swings, aggression or paranoia.
It's important to note that any stimulant medication can have severe side effects including high blood pressure and heart problems. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting a new medication.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Evekeo?
Evekeo, similar to Adderall, is a stimulant medication used for conditions such as ADHD. However, it can also prompt potentially serious side effects in rare cases:
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
- Signs of allergic reactions: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling on your face or throat
- Blurred vision or eye pain
- Rapid heart rate, palpitations in your chest area and shortness of breath that may lead to dizziness and fainting;
- Low potassium levels - muscle weakness/cramps, irregular heartbeat
- Severe reaction affecting the nervous system: rigid muscles with high fever accompanied by confusion; fast/uneven heartbeats leading to feeling like you might pass out.
Please contact a medical professional immediately if any of these signs are noticed. It's worth noting that this list does not cover all potential side effects and individuals should consult their healthcare provider for more detailed information.
What are the most common side effects for Adderall?
Adderall, a common medication used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), can induce a variety of side effects:
- Dry mouth and throat discomfort
- Appetite suppression leading to weight loss
- Insomnia or other sleep issues
- Increased heart rate or palpitations
- Nervousness and anxiety symptoms such as sweating and tremors
- Digestive problems including nausea, stomach pain, constipation, and sometimes vomiting
- Headaches or dizziness are also fairly common.
It's also important to note that some users report blurred vision, an increase in urination frequency, confusion or agitation. Muscular pain or joint discomfort may occur too. In rare cases, Adderall might cause a rash. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen over time it is suggested you seek medical help immediately. It’s essential to remember that everyone reacts differently to medications so not all individuals taking Adderall will experience the above mentioned symptoms.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Adderall?
While Adderall is highly effective in managing symptoms of ADHD, it can also cause severe side effects in certain cases. Symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention include:
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face or throat
- Chest pain, trouble breathing or fainting spells
- Hallucinations or paranoia
- Unexplained wounds on fingers and toes (circulation problems)
- Aggressive behavior or hostility
- Seizures (convulsions)
- Changes in vision including blurred vision
- Uncontrollable movements of the body parts (muscle twitches); and,
Signs indicating a possible heart problem like unusual tiredness, significant weight loss without trying, insomnia and changes in libido should not be ignored. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Adderall, stop its use immediately and seek emergency medical assistance.
Contraindications for Evekeo and Adderall?
Both Evekeo and Adderall, like most other stimulant medications, may exacerbate symptoms of anxiety in some people. If you notice your anxiety worsening, or an increase in jitteriness, restlessness, or panic attacks, please seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Evekeo nor Adderall should be taken if you are taking or have recently taken monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. Always inform your physician about the medications you are currently taking; MAOIs will require a period of approximately 2 weeks to clear from your system to prevent dangerous interactions with Evekeo and Adderall. It is also important to note that both these drugs can lead to dependency and must be used under strict supervision by a healthcare professional.
How much do Evekeo and Adderall cost?
For the brand name versions of these drugs:
- The price for 60 tablets of Evekeo (5 mg) averages around $380, which works out to about $12.67/day if you are on a dose of 15 mg per day.
- The price for 30 capsules of Adderall XR (20 mg) is approximately $220, coming out to roughly $7.33/day.
Therefore, if your daily dosage requirement is higher for Evekeo compared to Adderall — i.e., above 15mg/day — then brand-name Adderall might be more cost-effective on a per-day treatment basis. However, it's vital to note that cost should not be your primary consideration when deciding between these two medications; effectiveness and side effects are also critical factors.
Comparatively speaking, the costs for generic versions of both medications are significantly lower:
- Generic amphetamine sulfate (the active ingredient in Evekeo), at doses of 5mg or above, can range from approximately $0.50–$2 per day depending on your daily dosage requirements.
- Generic mixed salts amphetamine extended release (the equivalent formulary substance in Adderall XR) prices fluctuate based upon quantity and milligrams required but typically average between $1–$3 per day.
Remember that while pricing can vary by location and pharmacy/drugstore used, generics will typically offer significant savings over their branded counterparts without sacrificing efficacy or safety.
Popularity of Evekeo and Adderall
Amphetamine sulfate, in generic form as well as brand names such as Evekeo, was estimated to have been prescribed to around 0.5 million people in the US in 2020. Amphetamine sulfate accounted for just over 2% of ADHD prescriptions in the US. However, it has a unique profile being composed of a racemic mix with equal parts dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine salts; most other amphetamines used for ADHD are primarily or purely dextroamphetamine.
Mixed amphetamine salts, including brand versions such as Adderall, were prescribed to about 17 million people in the USA in 2020. In terms of stimulant medications for ADHD/ADD, mixed amphetamine salts account for roughly half of all prescriptions written each year. The popularity and prevalence of Adderall have remained high due to its efficacy and reputation among patients and providers alike.
Conclusion
Both Evekeo (amphetamine sulfate) and Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) are prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, with numerous clinical studies supporting their higher efficacy compared to placebo treatments. At times, these drugs may be combined or used in conjunction with other medications but such decisions should be made under careful physician supervision due to potential drug interactions.
Their mechanisms of action differ slightly; while both work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, Evekeo affects both dopamine and norepinephrine equally whereas Adderall has a stronger effect on dopamine.
Evekeo is often considered as an initial treatment option while Adderall might be introduced if patients fail to respond adequately to first-line stimulants or need a longer-lasting medication due to its extended-release formulation.
Both drugs have generic forms available which can provide significant cost savings for those paying out of pocket. Like many medications, both Evekeo and Adderall may require an adjustment period where effects might not be immediately noticeable.
Side effects between the two drugs are generally similar including insomnia, decreased appetite, abdominal pain etc., although some patients report fewer side effects with Evekeo possibly due to its balanced release of dopamine and norepinephrine. As with any ADHD medication management plan, it’s important for individuals taking these prescriptions to closely monitor their symptoms—especially when starting treatment—and contact healthcare provider promptly if they notice any worsening symptoms or adverse reactions.
Other Trials to Consider
Popular Categories
Popular Guides
Learn More About These Treatments
Refrences
- 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
- 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