Concerta contains methylphenidate, whereas Ritalin includes a mixture of amphetamine salts (MAS). Although Concerta and Adderall contain different ingredients, they are classified as CNS stimulants. They are thought to work similarly in ADHD by increasing the brain’s concentration of two neurotransmitters (dopamine and norepinephrine).
Direct comparison studies of Concerta Vs. Ritalin and placebo trials indicate that both drugs are effective in ADHD, although it is worthwhile noting that most practices are of poor quality and short duration. Concerta and Adderall are both associated with sleep problems and a decreased appetite; in addition, Concerta is more likely to cause stomach pain.
Not everybody responds equally to either Concerta or Adderall, so if one treatment is ineffective or intolerable, it is appropriate to try another. Abuse or dependence potential is untested but likely to be similar.
Is Concerta Vs. Ritalin The Same?
Not as far as ingredients go. Concerta is a brand name for methylphenidate, and Adderall contains mixed amphetamine salts. Although they both have different elements, they are classified as CNS stimulants and are thought to work similarly – by increasing the concentrations of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. For more information on Concerta Vs. Ritalin, click here.
These two neurotransmitters transmit impulses between nerves, which helps improve ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattention. Methylphenidate is available as a generic, and other brands include Aptensio, Metadate, Methylin, Quillivant, and Ritalin. The mixed amphetamine salts in Adderall are dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate. Adderall is also available as a generic.
Which One Is More Likely To Be Abused?
Both Concerta and Ritalin have the potential to be abused. There is a misconception among teenagers and young adults that prescription stimulants can improve a person’s ability to learn and so are taken to boost study performance.
Although prescription stimulants promote wakefulness, research has shown that students who abuse them have lower high school and college GPAs than those who don’t. Thinking or learning ability does not appear enhanced in those without ADHD.
Unfortunately, no head-to-head comparison trials comparing the abuse potential of Concerta and Adderall have been done.
What Is Clozaril?
Clozaril, which runs under Clozapine, FazaClo, and Versacloz, is an antipsychotic medicine used to treat schizophrenia after other treatments have failed. Clozapine is available only from a certified pharmacy under a particular program.
It is also used to reduce the risk of suicidal behavior in people with schizophrenia or similar disorders. It may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
How Should One Take Clozaril?
One may take clozapine with or without food. Shake the oral suspension (liquid) for 10 seconds before you measure a dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Remove an orally disintegrating tablet from the package only when you are ready to take medicine. Place the tablet in your mouth and allow it to dissolve without chewing. Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves.
Clozapine affects your immune system and can have long-lasting effects on your body. You may get infections more easily, even serious or fatal diseases. One may need frequent medical tests while using this medicine and for a short time after your last dose.
One should not stop using clozapine suddenly. Follow your doctor’s instructions about tapering your dose. If you start retaking clozapine after two or more days off the medicine, you may need to use a lower amount than when you stopped. Follow your doctor’s dosing instructions very carefully.
Your doctor may recommend you use a laxative while taking clozapine. Use only the type of laxative your doctor recommends. For more information on Clozaril, click here.
Clozaril Side-Effects
One may get infections more easily, even serious or fatal diseases. Call your doctor right away if you have signs of infection such as:
- Fever, flu-like symptoms, extreme weakness
- Mouth sores, skin sores
- New or worsening cough, trouble breathing
- Pain or burning when you urinate
- Vaginal itching or discharge
Further doses may be delayed until your infection clears up.
High doses or long-term use of clozapine can cause a severe movement disorder that may not be reversible. The longer you use clozapine, the more likely you will develop this disorder, especially if you are a woman or an older adult.
Clozapine can increase your risk of seizure, especially at high doses. Avoid any activity that could be dangerous if you have a stroke or lose consciousness.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- Uncontrolled muscle movements in your face (chewing, lip-smacking, frowning, tongue movement, blinking, or eye movement)
- Seizure (blackout-out or convulsions)
- Severe constipation
- Heart problems–chest pain, fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, slow Heartbeats, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness (like you might pass out)
- Liver problems–loss of appetite, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, itching, dark urine
Conclusion
The main differences between Concerta Vs. Ritalin is how quickly they work to relieve symptoms and how long their effects last.