Concerta vs Adderall | What's the Difference and How to Recover?

What are stimulant drugs?

Prescription stimulants are treatment medications often used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (a condition pertaining to uncontrollable bouts of deep slumber). They improve alertness, focus, and vitality. Most prescription stimulants are available in pill, capsule, or liquid form and are administered orally. Using this form of medication is considered successful for most people since about 80% of patients under stimulant medication experience an improvement in their symptoms during treatment.

Concerta and Adderall are two distinct kinds of drugs, despite being both stimulants and operating similarly. They are both seen as significantly effective in treating ADHD symptoms. However, it is essential to note that Concerta yields long-lasting effects compared to its direct counterpart, Adderall.

How do they work, and what are the differences?

The well-known brand name for methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release pills is Concerta. How it works is that the medication enters your system gradually, and the effects may last up to 12 hours. Physicians would often prescribe one tablet taken in the morning to help you control your ADHD symptoms throughout the school or workday.

Meanwhile, the other known ADHD drug is called Adderall. As earlier mentioned, it's a stimulant combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It is available in both normal and extended-release formulations. The usual form is taken twice a day with a window period of four to six hours before taking a second dose. The extended-release version is a capsule with a half-life of up to 12 hours. Each capsule contains a small number of beads. Half of the beads begin to act immediately, while the other half is released slowly into your body.

Most common side effects associated with Concerta and Adderall use

As they both act on the brain in the same way, Concerta and Adderall have comparable side effects. The following are common side effects:

·         Mouth dryness

·         Vomiting or nausea

·         Sweating

·         Appetite suppression

·         Headache

·         Anxiety or agitation

·         Restlessness

·         Insomnia

Because Concerta is a methylphenidate while Adderall is an amphetamine, they may produce varying side effects, with Concerta being milder than Adderall. Furthermore, Concerta has been shown to have a more considerable impact on mental activities than motor tasks.

It's worth noting that Both Concerta and Adderall have a common side effect of suppressing appetite, which is why they are frequently misused by people seeking a fast method to lose weight.

People must know that any kind of misuse of any of these medications is very hazardous and may lead to addiction and other health concerns.

Can the use of these drugs lead to addiction?

Yes, misusing prescription stimulants may result in a substance use disorder (SUD), which in extreme instances can lead to Concerta or Adderall addiction.

Long-term use of stimulants, even when recommended by a doctor, may lead to tolerance. Simply put, there may be a tendency for an individual to require more significant and/or repetitive dosages of the medication to get the intended benefits.

An SUD occurs when long-term drug use produces difficulties such as health problems and the inability to fulfill obligations at work, school, or family. Concerns regarding usage should be addressed with a physician.

Who are usually prone to these drugs for substance abuse?

Since these drugs suppress appetite and stimulate the mind for prolonged focus, this type of substance addiction is often seen in college students who resort to stimulant use to continue studying for more extended hours—especially when there is pressure on their part to perform at school.

Some athletes are seen ingesting these stimulant drugs to boost energy and focus, especially when endurance is needed for rigorous practice and training.

What are the adverse long-term effects of Adderall and Concerta substance abuse?

Abuse of Concerta and Adderall over time may result in more severe side effects such as:

·         Hostility or aggression

·         Hallucinations

·         Convulsions or fainting spells

·         Breathing difficulty

·         Manic or depressive episodes

·         Cold or numb fingers or toes that may become white or blue

·         hypertension or high blood pressure

·         Cardiovascular problems

·         involuntary motions and/or tics

·         Problems with the mind and psychosis

Because these medications are highly addictive, people suffering from substance abuse from these two drugs should immediately seek medical attention to avoid long-term physical and mental health damages. It may entail behavior medication through the collaboration of a therapist and an addiction recovery center.

What can you do to recover from Adderall and/or Concerta addiction?

Behavioral treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and contingency management (motivational rewards), may be beneficial in treating individuals who are addicted to prescription stimulants. Cognitive-behavioral therapy may successfully control triggers and stress while also modifying the patient's drug-use expectations and behaviors.

It also helps if you have a robust support system that you get from therapists, counselors, and sober companions to help steer you on the path to rehabilitation and sober living.

In a nutshell

Now that you know the difference between Concerta and Adderall and are familiar with how to recover from substance abuse, not all hope is lost.

Mustering the courage to seek help is never easy. That crucial first step always comes as a challenge for most people as they fear they might be judged—or worse—fail from their road to recovery. That's why it's necessary to have a strong sense of community and receive positive encouragement and support from people who know and understand what you're going through.

If you or someone you know suffer from stimulant addiction, don't hesitate to ask for help. You may contact Transcend Recovery Community and start your path to getting better. An addiction recovery counselor is just beside you to guide you every step of the way and help get you on track with your recovery journey.