Adderall and Ritalin are both stimulants commonly used in treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other mental health conditions that hamper focus. While both medications have proven to be very effective in helping individuals with ADHD and anxiety disorders, they have been misused and abuse by those who don’t require the medication. Repeated use of either medication and abusing the drugs when not prescribed can lead to addiction. Families looking for an Adderall addiction treatment center in Texas might wonder what the difference is between these two medications. Santé Center for Healing has an experienced and compassionate staff guiding individuals struggling with substance use disorder and their friends and family through the best ways to heal and recover.
Ritalin vs. Adderall
To begin with, it’s necessary to understand how these two medications work. So, what is Ritalin?
Methylphenidate, brand name Ritalin, is a stimulant prescribed for the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy. Ritalin first came on the market in 1944 and became FDA-approved in 1955. There has been a global surge in the use of Ritalin. The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) reported a 66 percent increase in 2013. Ritalin is also a recreational drug, especially among students. A 2015 survey conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse found 3.6 percent of high schoolers abuse this drug.
Like Ritalin, Adderall is a stimulant for both ADHD and narcolepsy. Adderall is a combination drug that contains several salts of amphetamine. It first emerged in 1994 under the brand name Obetrol, and its use is controversial in many countries. Also, like Ritalin, Adderall is sometimes abused.
What is the Difference Between These Medications?
Besides the fundamental differences in formulas, these two medications work in similar ways. Both Ritalin and Adderall work to control the levels of certain chemicals in the brain to improve concentration. Both are also effective for many who have ADHD. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates up to 80 percent of children with ADHD take one of these two drugs to control it. Ritalin is more commonly the choice for children, though Adderall is prescribed more often to adults with ADHD.
Whether a person is struggling with Ritalin or Adderall abuse, finding the right addiction treatment program is key to healing. Addiction is a disease that only worsens when ignored or left untreated. Fortunately, Sante Center for Healing offers several addiction treatment programs, each designed to serve the particular needs of an individual depending on the severity of their substance use disorder. Our programs include:
In each of these programs, individuals work with our team of counselors and therapists to design a customized therapy plan.
Some Common Signs of Abuse
Snorting stimulants like Ritalin and Adderall produce effects very much like cocaine. They also have some similar side effects, including:
- Nervousness
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Dry mouth
Adderall, however, is an amphetamine and may cause stronger reactions and more serious medical problems when abused. Short-term effects include an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. In high doses, either stimulant can cause a rise in body temperature, heart failure, and seizures when abused.
Treatment for Adderall Addiction at The Santé Center for Healing
Treatment for Adderall addiction is critical since adults often abuse it. The Santé Center for Healing offers programs for Adderall addiction and uses a structured system for treatment that includes:
- Three days of evaluation
- Up to 10 days of detox
- On average, 45 to 65 days in the residential treatment program
- Six months for intensive outpatient care
- From three months to two years for transitional living
Santé Center for Healing features an integrated addiction treatment model that utilizes both traditional and innovative approaches. Professionals make up 30 to 45 percent of Santé Center clients, but they can treat anyone over 18. This facility also offers dual diagnosis treatment and programs for poly-addiction or addiction to more than one substance.
Their individualized treatment plans include input from the client, a medical doctor, a therapist, and other professional disciplines. When at Santé Center Healing Center, you work with the staff daily, and they will evaluate your progress towards recovery regularly.
The campus is warm and inviting, with plenty of room to spread your legs. Santé Center facility sits atop a hill on 16 acres near Argyle, Texas. While there, you’ll have access to a gym and swimming pool. The cafeteria serves healthy, nutritious meals and snacks, and there are plenty of private meditation and conversation areas.
For more information about Adderall abuse or tour our campus, give us a call at 866.238.3154.
