Stimulant medications are among the most common treatments for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Adderall, Mydayis, Dexedrine and Daytrana all belong to this group, but they differ in their ingredients, how long they last and how they’re taken.
This guide covers what to know about each one, along with the side effects, precautions and withdrawal considerations they share.
Adderall (Dextroamphetamine and Amphetamine)
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance with medicinal uses made by combining dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. Typically, it’s prescribed as an immediate-release tablet or extended-release oral capsule and taken under the supervision of a medical professional.
Uses and Benefits of Adderall
Typically, Adderall is prescribed for ADHD or narcolepsy. It may be prescribed for either children or adults and is effective in improving attention and focus, as well as in keeping you awake. It works by increasing the norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin levels in the brain.
Adderall Dosage and Administration
Adderall usage guidelines depend on several factors, and it can take some trial and error to find the right therapeutic dose for each person. Age and the purpose of using Adderall both can influence how a doctor may prescribe it. Whether you’ve been prescribed extended-release or instant-release medication also influences the frequency of dosage.
Generally speaking, for ADHD, people take between 5 and 40 mg per day in one or several doses throughout the day. Your doctor knows your health best, so follow their lead as they try to find the right dosage.
Typically, children between the ages of 6 and 12 are prescribed 10 mg once per day in the mornings at first, adjusting and increasing as needed to achieve therapeutic results. Doses rarely exceed 30 mg per day.
Children ages 13 to 17 also usually start with 10 mg once per day, increasing the medication as needed, up to 20 mg per day.
For adults, the typical starting dose is 20 mg once per day.
People with narcolepsy may take between 5 and 60 mg daily divided into one to three doses.
Typically, this medication should be taken first thing in the morning. If you require multiple doses throughout the day, they’re typically spaced out by 4 to 6 hours. It can be taken with or without food.
Mydayis (Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine Extended Release)
Understanding Mydayis
Mydayis is a stimulant ADHD medication, meaning that it works by increasing certain chemicals in the brain that regulate mood, concentration and impulse control. It’s available as a generic under the name amphetamine/dextroamphetamine, and it comes in an extended-release capsule that’s taken by mouth, typically once per day.
Mydayis is in a class of drugs called central nervous system stimulants, and it contains a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts. These compounds cause the body to release two important neurotransmitters: dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine, which we associate with the body’s reward system as well as motivation and concentration, helps to improve focus and attention span. Norepinephrine, on the other hand, is crucial for alertness and concentration.
The medication includes three types of coated particles, called beads, that are designed to release at various times throughout the day. These include:
- Immediate-release beads that provide a quick initial dose
- Mid-day delayed-release beads that provide a medication release a few hours later
- Evening delayed-release beads that provide a medication release during the later hours of the day
Mydayis is similar to Adderall, which also contains mixed amphetamine salts. However, Adderall’s extended-release formula only contains two types of drug beads compared to Mydayis’s three, meaning Mydayis provides more effective coverage throughout the day. For those who respond well to Adderall but find that the medication wears off too early in the day, Mydayis may be a good alternative.
It’s important to note that Mydayis is only available by prescription, despite some online pharmacies claiming to be able to sell it without a script from a doctor. These may be counterfeit or unsafe versions and should always be avoided.
Uses and Benefits of Mydayis
Mydayis is formulated to treat the symptoms of ADHD, including inattentive and hyperactive symptoms. While this is the only use the FDA officially approves it for, the medication is occasionally prescribed off-label to treat sleep disorders such as narcolepsy. Because it’s a stimulant, it can help reduce daytime sleepiness and prevent sleep attacks.
Use of a medication off-label means that a doctor prescribed the medication to treat a condition other than what the FDA approves it for. While there is evidence that Mydayis can treat certain sleep disorders, this use is generally considered experimental. For that reason, health insurance companies typically don’t pay for medications that are used off-label, meaning the patient is responsible for the entire cost.
A generic version of Mydayis was approved by the FDA in August of 2023, and the first generic hit the market just two months later. Like the name brand, this generic features an extended release, providing symptom control throughout the day.
Mydayis Dosage and Administration
Mydayis comes in capsule form in four different dosages:
- 12.5 mg
- 25 mg
- 37.5 mg
- 50 mg
Generally speaking, a doctor sets 12.5 mg as the starting daily dosage. From there, they may increase the dosage by increments of 12.5 mg until the individual has the best response, which is optimal improvement in ADHD symptoms without side effects.
For an adolescent, 25 mg per day is the maximum daily dose, and for adults, the maximum daily dose tops out at 50 mg. The longer an individual stays on a high dose of Mydayis, the more likely they are to become dependent on it and develop withdrawal symptoms if they decide to go off it.
In most cases, individuals take their daily dose of Mydayis in the morning, shortly after waking. The capsule is intended to be swallowed whole with water or another liquid. However, if someone is unable to swallow the capsule, they can break it open and ingest it by sprinkling it over a soft food, such as a bite of applesauce, that allows it to be swallowed without chewing. Because the beads break down over the course of the day, it’s important that they’re swallowed whole, without chewing or crushing.
Dexedrine (Dextroamphetamine)
What Is Dexedrine?
Dexedrine is a powerful stimulant that helps to improve focus and limit impulsive behavior. Dexedrine’s generic name is “dextroamphetamine sulfate.” In most cases, doctors prescribe Dexedrine to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) alongside other treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy or other forms of counseling. This medication can also treat other conditions—namely the sleep disorder, narcolepsy.
As a stimulant, Dexedrine carries certain risks. The Drug Enforcement Administration/Food and Drug Administration classifies the various forms of Dexedrine as Schedule II drugs in the United States. Though Dexedrine is often safe, it is always wise to consult a doctor for personalized advice about the potential risks and benefits of this medication as they might pertain to you or a loved one.
Understanding Dexedrine
Dexedrine works by promoting wakefulness. Like other amphetamines, Dexedrine stimulates the brain by interfering with certain neurotransmitters and blocking dopamine reuptake in the central nervous system, among others. These mechanisms elicit a variety of effects, many of which are beneficial for treating conditions like ADHD.
Dexedrine is similar to another common ADHD treatment, Adderall. Both drugs contain a synthetic compound amphetamine called “dextroamphetamine”—Dexedrine’s generic name. However, while Adderall contains both amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, Dexedrine contains only dextroamphetamine. Because dextroamphetamine is the stronger compound, Dexedrine is a far stronger medication than Adderall. This results in a more effective drug, but also carries more risk.
Uses and Benefits of Dexedrine
Because of its strength, Dexedrine has relatively few approved uses. However, in those areas, it is very effective.
Case studies of long-term use in people with ADHD revealed that therapeutic doses of amphetamines can improve brain development and nerve growth. These doses also dramatically reduce the core symptoms of ADHD: hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. For most people, this results in a higher quality of life and better results in academic, professional, and personal settings.
And, though Dexedrine can sometimes foster drug dependence or misuse, a review of follow-up studies found that beginning treatment with amphetamines during childhood may reduce the risk of a substance use disorder in adulthood.
Dexedrine’s other main use is treating narcolepsy. This unusual sleep disorder involves chronic sleep-wake issues, meaning those with the condition feel extremely drowsy during the day and may even suddenly fall asleep. This condition also comes with various other symptoms, like sleep paralysis or a sudden loss of muscle tone and control called cataplexy.
While there is no cure for narcolepsy, Dexedrine is often an effective tool for managing symptoms. Most amphetamines boost wakefulness, but Dexedrine is particularly good at doing so, thanks to its effects on dopamine.
Off-label, Dexedrine has also been used to treat conditions like depression and anxiety, though this is usually in very specific cases.
Dexedrine Dosage and Administration
Generally, Dexedrine comes in tablet or capsule form. Most people take a slow-release capsule once a day. It’s usually best to take this drug in the morning, as taking it too late can lead to sleeplessness. In some cases, doctors will prescribe fast-acting tablets that patients take throughout the day. Do not take these drugs with fruit juice.
Always stick to the prescribed amount and follow the dosing schedule as closely as you can. If you ever miss a dose, you can take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time for your next dose, just skip the missed dose and try to stay on your schedule afterward.
Daytrana (Methylphenidate Patch)
Understanding Methylphenidate (Daytrana)
Daytrana, commonly known by its generic name “methylphenidate,” is a prescription patch for ADHD. You might be familiar with drugs like Ritalin and Adderall to treat ADHD. Unlike Daytrana, these medications are not available as a stimulant patch. Daytrana is in fact the only methylphenidate patch for ADHD.
So, what is Daytrana? This skin patch for ADHD is applied to the hip area where the stimulant methylphenidate is absorbed into the bloodstream. It’s a central nervous system stimulant that balances the brain chemicals that help with impulse control and hyperactivity.
Psychiatrists may recommend using Daytrana alongside a broader treatment plan from healthcare providers, which includes:
- Regular behavior therapy
- Ongoing education about ADHD with families, caregivers, and teachers
- Family counseling
- Setting small goals and targets
Alongside the above therapies, there are many uses and benefits of using Daytrana to treat ADHD in children.
Uses and Benefits of Daytrana
Daytrana is used to increase attention span and decrease impulsiveness in children exhibiting signs of ADHD. It’s FDA-approved for the sole use of treating ADHD in children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years old. Daytrana is the only methylphenidate patch that treats ADHD, and helps by increasing dopamine in the brain.
Some parents of children diagnosed with ADHD find a patch to be more beneficial than other medication types. Here’s why:
- A patch is hassle-free—children often battle with taking pills
- The patch provides a consistent dose of the stimulant over the recommended 9 hours
- No medication management and dosage control required
- Pills are easier to misuse than a patch
- The only thing you need to remember is to remove the patch after nine hours
There are a multitude of uses and benefits of using a patch for ADHD, but they’re not without their risks and side effects.
Daytrana Precautions
Daytrana comes with a black box warning, the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This warning indicates that Daytrana has a risk of misuse and addiction because of the main stimulant ingredient, methylphenidate.
Before prescribing Daytrana, a healthcare practitioner will probably screen for any underlying medical issues. An in-depth screening should include a full family history.
Precautions should be taken if the individual is taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)—there needs to be a two-week break before any Daytrana is administered.
During the first few months of any new medication, there may be some changes. The stimulant will affect chemicals and mood, so regular monitoring of mental wellness is advised. Generally, these symptoms tend to disappear when the body adjusts to the medication.
Daytrana Dosage and Administration
When it comes to dosage and administration, you should follow the required dosage recommended by your health care provider. Typically, a patch is put directly onto the hip area two hours before needed and removed exactly nine hours later.
The dose required depends on the individual but typically starts gradually to monitor the response and figure out the correct dosage for your system. Individuals on other forms of ADHD medication converting to Daytrana, will also need a gradual introduction to Daytrana.
Working out the ideal dose is called the titration schedule, which looks something like this:
- 10 mg in the first week
- 15 mg in the second week
- 20 mg in the third week
- 30 mg in the fourth week
Use the patches as recommended—don’t ever cut them, use them twice, or double up on dosages. The patches contain powerful drugs that affect the nervous system and should be handled with caution.
Risks and Side Effects of ADHD Stimulants
The risks below are described for Adderall, but most apply to the other stimulants in this guide as well.
Perhaps the biggest risk to taking Adderall is its potential to become addictive. This drug’s Schedule II classification comes from its potential for misuse and dependence. If it’s been prescribed to you, your doctor has weighed the benefits you may gain from this medication with the potential risks and side effects and you should follow their instructions for use.
Other potential risks include:
- Physical dependence and withdrawal if you suddenly stop taking Adderall.
- Heart attack or stroke in people with a history of heart problems.
- Psychosis or aggressive behavior for people with certain co-occurring mental health disorders.
- Restricted growth in children. Studies show that stimulants like Adderall can slow both height and weight growth in children. Children prescribed this medication require regular growth checks to ensure it’s not stunting them.
- Seizures. People with a history of seizures may experience them more frequently while taking Adderall.
- Problems with blood circulation. More specifically, Raynaud’s phenomenon, which occurs when there’s temporary blood flow restriction to the fingers or toes, causing skin to pale and feel cold or painful.
- Serotonin syndrome. This rare, but serious, condition occurs when there’s too much serotonin in the brain. Taking Adderall in conjunction with other medications that can raise serotonin levels, such as antidepressants, migraine medications, or monoaminase oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), can cause this condition to occur. It’s characterized by a rapid heart rate, sweating, muscle spasms or stiffness, fever, and altered mental status and is considered a medical emergency.
Common and Serious Side Effects
Mydayis is approved in those aged 13 and over and is generally well-tolerated by most patients. Even so, there are several common side effects individuals may experience, especially when they first start taking the medication. The most common adverse reactions include:
- Dry mouth
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach pain or upset
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Trouble sleeping
- Nervousness
In addition to these side effects, Mydayis can cause more serious adverse effects in some people. Talk to your doctor if you’re on this medication and experience any of the following:
- Increased blood pressure
- Indicators that you have blood flow problems in your fingers or toes, such as numbness, pain, coldness or changes in skin color
- Unusual wounds on the fingers or toes
- Changes in mood or behavior, such as increased aggression, agitation, depression or mood swings
- Thoughts of suicide
- Uncontrolled movements
- Teeth grinding
- Verbal outbursts
In rare cases, Mydayis side effects can be life-threatening. Adverse reactions to watch for include:
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in the chest or left arm
- Fainting
- Seizures
- Severe headache
- Trouble speaking
- Confusion
- Swelling in the ankles or feet
- Blurred vision
- Extreme tiredness
- Weakness on one side of the body
If you experience these reactions, seek medical attention immediately.
When it comes to managing conditions such as ADHD, doctors consider whether the benefits a medication such as Mydayis provide outweigh potential risks and side effects. While many people use this medication without adverse reactions, others experience disruptive or unsafe side effects. Maintaining ongoing communication with your doctor and keeping up with regular check-ups is necessary while you’re taking Mydayis.
Precautions and Considerations
These precautions are written for Adderall, but the same cautions generally apply to other ADHD stimulants.
Be completely honest with your prescribing doctor about all other medications, both prescribed and over-the-counter, that you take. Adderall can interact with certain medications. For example, sodium bicarbonate, commonly used in medication like Alka-Seltzer for stomach upset, can affect how your body absorbs Adderall. Other medications that are known to interact with Adderall include:
- Heartburn medication
- Blood pressure medication
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI)
- Many medications used to treat mental health disorders, such as anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medication
- Blood thinners
- Cold medication including decongestants
- Narcotics
- Seizure medication
Other medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements may also interact negatively with Adderall.
Non-prescription drugs, such as alcohol or marijuana, may also impact you differently while taking Adderall. Generally, it’s a good idea to abstain from these completely while taking this prescription.
Beyond that, when you first start taking Adderall, it’s a good idea to hold off on driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how it affects your thinking and reaction time.
Taking Adderall at the same time as you drink fruit juice or take vitamin C may also interfere with your body processing the medication. Try to avoid doing so for best results.
Be sure to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant in the near future, as Adderall can pose a risk to the developing fetus. People taking Adderall are more prone to premature birth or having a baby with a low birth weight. Depending on use, a baby born to someone taking Adderall may be born dependent on the drug and experience withdrawal symptoms after birth. Likewise, this medication is not compatible with breastfeeding, as it passes through breast milk to the nursing infant.
Treatment Duration and Withdrawal
The withdrawal pattern below is described for Adderall; other stimulants can cause similar symptoms when stopped.
Adderall is commonly used to treat ADHD, which is a lifelong condition. While there are other ways to manage it, some people may require Adderall to function normally. Because of this, there’s no exact treatment duration for this drug. Some people may take it for most or all of their lives once they start.
However, if you decide that Adderall is no longer helping you manage your ADHD symptoms, or if you’re concerned about health effects, you may face a period of withdrawal. Your body becomes physically dependent on this drug after consistent long-term use, so once you stop using it, your body needs time to readjust to working without it.
Withdrawal symptoms typically last about a week, though some people, especially if they used Adderall at high doses or for years, experience them for several weeks or months. These may include:
- Anxiety
- Changes in appetite
- Cravings for Adderall
- Depression or thoughts of suicide
- Low or no motivation
- Irritability and mood swings
- Insomnia
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Tremors
- Seizures
Between 6 and 36 hours after your last dose, you can expect to feel fatigued and down, possibly even depressed. Symptoms exacerbate between days 3 and 5 of withdrawal, typically leading to irritability and depression, as well as headaches and nightmares. Between days 5 and 7, the symptoms usually start to fade, but you’re likely to feel moody, depressed, and a lack of motivation.
When it’s time to go off of Mydayis, a doctor will generally recommend that their patient tapers off, gradually reducing their dosage to minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms. Stopping the medication suddenly can cause severe tiredness, sleep problems and mood changes.
The Decision to Take an ADHD Stimulant Is Between You and Your Doctor
Ultimately, the decision to take an ADHD stimulant is one to discuss with your doctor. If they recommend you try one for ADHD or narcolepsy, it will be because they believe any side effects are worth the benefits you’ll see. You’ll likely start noticing the medication’s effects the first day you take it, but you should give it an opportunity to work before deciding whether or not it’s right for you.
If medication alone isn’t enough to help manage your symptoms, you may benefit from working with licensed clinicians in group and individual therapies to develop more healthy coping skills. Restore Mental Health in Deerfield Beach offers psychiatric care and therapy as part of residential and outpatient treatment. Call (877) 810-2074 or contact us today to learn how we can help.
