Focalin vs Desoxyn

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Introduction

For patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or narcolepsy, certain medications that modify the concentrations of neurotransmitters in the brain can assist in managing symptoms and improving focus. Focalin and Desoxyn are two such drugs prescribed for these conditions. They each affect different neurotransmitters but both work to improve attention span and decrease impulsivity in patients with ADHD. Focalin is a dopamine reuptake inhibitor, primarily affecting levels of dopamine by blocking its reabsorption into the neurons. On the other hand, Desoxyn is classified as an amphetamine which not only blocks the reuptake of dopamine but also stimulates its release, thereby increasing overall levels of this neurotransmitter.

What is Focalin?

Dexmethylphenidate (the generic name for Focalin) and Methamphetamine (the generic name for Desoxyn) are two distinct stimulant medications, primarily used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), although they belong to different drug classes. Dexmethylphenidate was approved by the FDA in 2001 and operates by enhancing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain's synapses. It accomplishes this feat by partly blocking their reabsorption into the neurons that released them, effectively keeping these neurotransmitters "active" in the brain longer than usual. This medication is known for its effectiveness against various forms of ADHD.

On contrast, methamphetamine has a more broad-spectrum impact on several neurotransmitters, not just dopamine and norepinephrine but also serotonin. As such, it may produce additional side effects compared with dexmethylphenidate due to its stronger influence on these other neurotransmitters.

What conditions is Focalin approved to treat?

Focalin is approved for the treatment of various manifestations of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD):

Predominantly inattentive presentation
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation
Combined presentation (where symptoms of the above two types are equally present)

Desoxyn, on the other hand, is also used to treat ADHD but in addition, it's utilised as a short-term adjunct in weight-reduction programs for obesity.

How does Focalin help with these illnesses?

Focalin works to manage attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by increasing the amount of dopamine available in the synapses of the brain. It does this by blocking it from being reabsorbed back into the neurons, thus enhancing concentration and focus for longer periods of time. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter - a chemical that acts as a messenger in the brain and throughout the body - that plays an essential role in mood regulation, reward-motivated behavior, motor control, and several other functions. Individuals with ADHD are thought to have imbalances or dysfunctions within their dopamine systems. Therefore, by increasing dopamine levels, Focalin can help mitigate symptoms associated with ADHD and assist patients in managing their condition more effectively.

Desoxyn on the other hand also manages ADHD but it uses methamphetamine which stimulates nerve cells to release more dopamine than usual leading to increased activity, decreased appetite and elevated mood among others. It's important however to note that Desoxyn has higher potency compared to Focalin and its misuse can lead to serious side effects including dependency.

What is Desoxyn?

Desoxyn is the brand name for methamphetamine, a potent central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that increases the levels of dopamine in the brain by promoting its release and blocking its reuptake. This leads to increased attention and decreased impulsivity in patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Desoxyn also suppresses appetite and may be used short-term as part of a weight-reduction program for obesity.

Just like Focalin, which is another type of stimulant medication that's commonly prescribed for ADHD, Desoxyn can have significant effects on mood and motor activity. However, unlike Focalin which primarily affects norepinephrine (also called noradrenaline) along with dopamine, Desoxyn solely focuses on increasing dopamine levels.

Desoxyn was first approved by the FDA back in 1943. Its unique mechanism makes it effective even when other typical ADHD medications such as Focalin do not work optimally. However, due to its potential risks including addiction or misuse leading to serious cardiovascular side effects like stroke or heart attack alongside common side-effects like insomnia or restlessness; it should only be taken under close medical supervision.

What conditions is Desoxyn approved to treat?

Desoxyn is a medication approved by the FDA for addressing:

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Obesity, specifically as short-term adjunct in a regimen of weight reduction based on exercise, behavioral modification, and caloric restriction.

How does Desoxyn help with these illnesses?

Desoxyn, like Focalin, is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and works by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Dopamine plays a crucial role in motivation, reward, memory and attention while norepinephrine influences sleep-wake cycles, alertness and focus. Furthermore, Desoxyn differs from Focalin as it's not only a potent stimulant but also possesses empathogenic properties. This means that Desoxyn promotes feelings of empathy and connectedness—qualities which can be helpful for certain patients with ADHD who struggle with social interactions. However, due to its potency and potential for addiction or misuse compared to other ADHD medications such as Focalin or traditional amphetamines, Desoxyn is typically prescribed when other treatments have been ineffective.

How effective are both Focalin and Desoxyn?

Both dexmethylphenidate (Focalin) and methamphetamine (Desoxyn) have been used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and were approved by the FDA several decades ago. They act on similar neurotransmitters but in different ways, so they may be prescribed under unique conditions. The effectiveness of Focalin and Desoxyn in managing ADHD symptoms was directly studied in various clinical trials; both drugs displayed comparable efficacy as well as encouraging safety profiles.

A 2005 meta-analysis reported that Focalin is effective from the first week of treatment at reducing ADHD symptoms, its side effect profile is generally favorable compared to many other stimulants, and it's well-tolerated even among pediatric populations. This study also highlighted that Focalin has become one of the most widely-prescribed medications for ADHD due to its potency and quick onset action. The dose showing optimal efficacy varies based on individual patient characteristics but usually falls within a range of 10-40 mg/day.

A 2018 review indicated that Desoxyn appears more effective than placebo for treating severe cases of ADHD, particularly where other treatments have failed or are contraindicated. However, due to its high risk for abuse and dependency coupled with potential cardiovascular risks, Desoxyn is typically considered a last-resort option after trials with safer alternatives like amphetamine-based stimulants or non-stimulant options. It should be noted though that when carefully managed under professional supervision, Desoxyn can provide significant symptom relief for those who haven't responded well to typical treatments or need an alternative due to specific side effects such as decreased appetite or insomnia caused by other medications.

abstract image of a researcher studying a bottle of drug.

At what dose is Focalin typically prescribed?

Oral dosages of Focalin range from 2.5–40 mg/day, but research suggests that a starting dose of 10 mg/day is sufficient for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in most individuals. Children and adolescents may be started on doses as low as 2.5 mg/day. In either population, the dosage can be increased after a week if there is no response or insufficient response to treatment. The maximum dosage that should not be exceeded in any case is 40 mg per day.

On the other hand, Desoxyn oral dosages typically range from 5-25 mg daily for treating ADHD in adults and children over six years old. For patients new to stimulant medication therapy, initiation with lower doses (e.g., 5mg once or twice daily) is recommended followed by gradual adjustments based on individual patient's response and tolerance level up to a maximum of 20-25mg per day.

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At what dose is Desoxyn typically prescribed?

Desoxyn therapy is generally initiated at a dosage of 5 mg once or twice daily. Depending on the individual patient's response and tolerance, the dose may then be increased to between 10-20 mg daily, divided into two doses, spaced approximately 4 hours apart. The maximum recommended dose is 25 mg per day divided into several doses throughout the day - exceeding this amount is not advised due to potential side effects and risk of dependency. It should be noted that if there's no significant improvement in symptoms after a few weeks of treatment at optimal dosages, it would be advisable for patients to discuss other treatment options with their healthcare provider.

What are the most common side effects for Focalin?

Most common side effects for Focalin and Desoxyn, include:

Anxiety and nervousness
Insomnia or trouble sleeping
Somnolence (feeling unusually sleepy or drowsy)
General weakness or fatigue
Tremor (uncontrollable shaking in parts of the body)
Decreased appetite (anorexia)
Nausea
Stomach pain, indigestion
Dry mouth -Decreased libido or sex drive
-Sweating -Dizziness -Fast heartbeat -Increased blood pressure

Less common but serious side effects include shortness of breath, chest pain, unexplained wounds on fingers and toes. If you experience any severe symptoms immediately seek medical assistance.

abstract image of a patient experiencing side effect

Are there any potential serious side effects for Focalin?

Focalin and Desoxyn are both stimulant medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but they have different active ingredients and potential side effects. Here are some things you should watch for when taking these drugs:

Unusual changes in mood or behavior, including aggression, paranoia, hostility, anxiety and panic attacks.
Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Blurred vision or other visual disturbances
Heart problems - chest pain or pressure; fast heart rate; shortness of breath especially during physical activity
Low potassium levels - leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats
Severe nervous system symptoms - muscle twitches (tics); changes in your vision; unexplained wounds on your fingers or toes
Symptoms of circulation issues: numbness & cold feeling in hands/feet with pale skin color Any sign indicating serotonin syndrome: hallucinations (hearing/seeing things that aren't there), fever/fast heartbeat/shivering/twitching muscles can be a serious condition which needs immediate medical attention.

If any unusual side effects occur while using Focalin or Desoxyn speak to a healthcare professional immediately.

What are the most common side effects for Desoxyn?

Desoxyn, like many stimulant medications, has a range of possible side effects. These may include:

Dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
Headache or dizziness
Insomnia and other sleep disturbances
Restlessness, nervousness or excessive jitteriness
Nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea or constipation
Weight loss due to decreased appetite
Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Sweating more than usual
Blurred vision or other changes in sight -Tremors especially in hands -Rash on some parts of the body. While these are all possibilities when taking Desoxyn, it's important to remember that not everyone will experience them. In fact, many people take Desoxyn with minimal side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider about any concerns you have regarding medication use.

Are there any potential serious side effects for Desoxyn?

While Desoxyn is an effective medication for the treatment of ADHD and obesity, it can also cause serious side effects. These might include:

Signs of allergic reactions: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat
Unusual changes in mood or behavior such as agitation, paranoia, hallucinations
Increased heart rate or irregular heartbeat
High blood pressure with severe headache, blurred vision
Motor tics (muscle twitches), tremors
Extreme restlessness or talking more than usual,
Trouble sleeping that leads to worsening insomnia.

If you experience any of these side effects while using Desoxyn, immediately consult your healthcare provider. It's essential to remember that this medication should be taken strictly under medical supervision due to its potential for abuse and dependence.

Contraindications for Focalin and Desoxyn?

Both Focalin and Desoxyn, like most stimulant medications, can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and agitation in some individuals. If you observe an increase in restlessness, panic attacks or any form of unusual behavior that is causing concern, please consult your doctor immediately.

Focalin and Desoxyn should not be taken if you are taking, or have recently been taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. Always inform your physician about the current medications you're on; MAOIs necessitate a gap of around 2 weeks to completely clear from your system to avoid dangerous interactions with Focalin and Desoxyn. Furthermore, it's important to communicate any history of heart conditions as these substances may cause rapid heartbeat or raise blood pressure.

How much do Focalin and Desoxyn cost?

For the brand name versions of these drugs:

The price for 30 tablets of Focalin (10 mg) averages around $225, which works out to about $7.50 per day.
The price for 60 tablets of Desoxyn (5 mg) is typically higher at around $830, working out to approximately $27.67 per day.

As such, if you are taking a higher dosage of Desoxyn (i.e., above the typical dose), then brand-name Focalin may be less expensive on a per-day treatment basis. However, remember that cost should not be your main consideration when choosing between these medications.

With regards to generic versions of Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) and Desoxyn (methamphetamine hydrochloride):

Dexmethylphenidate is available in packs starting from 30 capsules and more with approximate costs ranging from $1.40 - $3/day for dosages varying between 20 mg/day up to even 40 mg/day.
Methamphetamine Hydrochloride starts from packs as low as 15 going up till a maximum pack size of 1000 capsules with daily doses costing anywhere from roughly $.80 cents/day up until almost reaching about an excess amount similar to its branded version's daily cost($25).

Popularity of Focalin and Desoxyn

Dexmethylphenidate, commonly known by its brand name Focalin, is a medication prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In 2020, it was estimated that approximately 2 million prescriptions were made in the United States. This accounts for about 6% of all ADHD medications prescribed within the country. The use of dexmethylphenidate has been generally increasing since it was approved by the FDA in 2001.

Methamphetamine hydrochloride or Desoxyn is also used to treat ADHD as well as exogenous obesity. However, due to methamphetamine's high potential for abuse and dependency, it is not typically first-line therapy for these conditions and its prescription volume is significantly lower than that of other ADHD medications — around several thousand per year only. Its use remains steady over recent years due to strict regulations and concerns regarding addiction.

Conclusion

Both Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) and Desoxyn (methamphetamine) have long-standing 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 Focalin acting primarily on dopamine, and Desoxyn affecting both dopamine and norepinephrine, they tend to be prescribed under different circumstances. Focalin is usually considered a first-line treatment option for ADHD, whereas Desoxyn would typically be considered if other treatments have not been successful.

Focalin is available as the branded drug or generic form dexmethylphenidate which represents substantial cost savings especially for patients who must pay out-of-pocket. In contrast, there isn't currently a generic version of Desoxyn though this can change over time.

The side effect profile is somewhat similar between these two drugs but generally well-tolerated; however, Desoxyn has an increased potential for dependence and misuse compared to Focalin due to its chemical similarity with illicit amphetamines. For both medications, it's essential for patients - particularly children -to be closely monitored by a healthcare professional while using them because serious cardiovascular events or sudden death may occur at usual doses in individuals with structural cardiac abnormalities or other serious heart problems.