The Difference Between Adderall and Methamphetamine (Meth)
Adderall and meth are often confused as being very similar substances. However, while they both derive from amphetamines, they are far from the same drug.
Adderall is a prescription drug that is commonly used to treat ADHD, while meth is an illicitly made, highly addictive drug that is used recreationally and can cause serious health issues. Adderall and meth have very different effects and are used for very different reasons.
However, there are some similarities between these two drugs, including drug class (stimulants), effects (increased heart rate and euphoria), and potential for addiction (although meth is much more addictive).
Adderall is a prescription stimulant used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and reduces feelings of fatigue in narcolepsy. This drug helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control for those with ADHD by increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. A combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, Adderall is also commonly used illegally as a performance enhancer for academics and athletics [5].
For those with ADHD, Adderall has different effects than on someone without ADHD [1], causing those with a neurotypical brain to experience increased alertness, jitteriness, anxiety, and other stimulating effects. For those with ADHD, the effects are more mentally stimulating, which helps them focus on tasks.
Meth is an illicit drug that is highly addictive and dangerous to ingest, especially when used long-term. This drug affects the central nervous system (CNS) by increasing levels of dopamine in the brain and creating a sense of euphoria or intense pleasure.
A synthesized version of an amphetamine, meth was developed in the early 20th century and initially used in nasal decongestants and inhalers [3]. However, Meth is a far more potent version of amphetamines and has much longer-lasting and more harmful effects on the body. Although meth has long been criminalized in the US, it is a commonly abused drug that unfortunately leads many into deep addiction, loss of well-being, and even death via overdose.
However, meth addiction is treatable. Reach out to an accredited addiction recovery program if you are struggling with a dependence on meth.
It is often assumed that the side effects of Adderall vs. meth are similar because they both derive from amphetamines. However, Adderall is a much less intense stimulant than meth, and causes more mild effects. As a result, the effects of these two substances are vastly different.
Side effects of Adderall include:
Side effects of meth include:
Similar side effects of meth vs. Adderall:
The long-term effects of Adderall vs. meth differ greatly as the two drugs have unique chemical makeups, causing different levels of physiological responses. While both meth and Adderall can have significant long-term health risks if misused, meth is significantly more dangerous and addictive than Adderall. If you or a loved one are struggling with meth addiction, it’s incredibly important to engage in an addiction treatment program in order to avoid serious health and lifestyle consequences.
Here are the long-term effects of Adderall vs. meth:
People often assume Adderall is the same as meth because they are both central nervous system stimulants derived from amphetamines and can both increase mental stimulation and energy. Adderall simply contains what’s called “amphetamine salts,” [8] while meth is a much more potent form of amphetamine that is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and brain in high amounts.
Both Adderall and meth also increase the dopamine levels in a user’s brain, leading to heightened focus, energy, and euphoria. However, meth is much more potent, more addictive, and more hazardous to your health.
Adderall is also a legally prescribed drug, while meth is both made, sold, and consumed illegally. Except in extreme medical cases, meth is never prescribed in a clinical setting because of how incredibly dangerous and addictive it is.
No, there is no safe dosage of meth that you can use to replace Adderall. This is extremely dangerous and ill-advised.
Meth is not at all the same as Adderall in Adderall vs meth chemical structure and does not have the same physiological effects. While there are some similarities, such as increased energy (in those without ADHD) and hyper-focus, meth is a much more potent stimulant that can very quickly lead to addiction, even in small amounts.
Adderall is not nearly as addictive as it affects the central nervous system in a much less intense way than meth. When used under medical supervision, Adderall is a much safer, reliable, and useful drug. Not to mention, meth (without a prescription) is highly illegal, whereas Adderall is a widespread prescription for people with ADHD and narcolepsy.
If you or a loved one are having a hard time getting access to prescription Adderall due to a shortage or other limitations like cost or location, there are other alternatives such as nootropics like Ginseng [9] that can help, as well as behavioral therapy.
No, Adderall and meth are not the same. While they are both stimulants that can cause heightened mental stimulation and energy, the chemical makeup of these two drugs is vastly different. Meth is significantly more potent, dangerous, and illegal without clinical approval, which is only granted in extreme cases. Adderall, on the other hand, is frequently prescribed to treat ADHD.
Meth (methamphetamine) is a highly addictive and dangerous drug that is produced, sold, and used illegally. It is derived from amphetamines and can be found on the street in different forms, such as an off-white powder or as opaque “crack rocks.”
Adderall is a relatively mild prescription drug derived from amphetamines and dextroamphetamine [8] and used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. This drug works by improving focus and impulse control. However, it can be abused as a performance drug, in which case it becomes harmful and comes with the risk of addiction. Adderall is only intended for use under the supervision of a prescribing physician.
No, Adderall is not the same as methylphenidate. When comparing Adderall vs. methylphenidate, Methylphenidate’s generic name is Ritalin [4], which is also prescribed for ADHD. Some people respond better to Adderall, while others do better when taking Ritalin. The type of ADHD medication prescribed will depend on an individual’s needs and the prescribing clinician.
While Adderall and meth are much different in potency and chemical makeup, they are both stimulants with some similar effects. Both meth and Adderall can make you feel mentally stimulated and energized, and both have long-term health and addiction risks if abused.
Meth is an illegal drug that is primarily used recreationally and has serious risks associated with its use. Adderall is legally prescribed and has much less intense effects on the user. Meth is also highly illegal to possess (without a prescription-which is very rare) and can lead to jail time and other life-long severe health consequences.
If you or a loved one are struggling with meth or Adderall addiction, it’s critical that you get the support you need to achieve a healthy, sober life.
At California Detox, we offer insurance-covered, luxury treatment for drug and alcohol use disorders. Our 24/7 staff is dedicated to the success of our patients and utilizes evidence-based, custom treatment protocols in our Orange County, CA programs. Enjoy a serene and upscale environment for recovery with private rooms available and beautiful ocean views in every room.
Our world-class detox and inpatient rehab programs include:
Call our friendly recovery team today at (888) 995-4208 to begin your journey to recovery from meth or Adderall addiction.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3489818/
[2] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/adderall-ritalin-adhd-decreases-productivity-study/
[3] https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/methamphetamine/what-methamphetamine
[4] https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/ritalin-adderall-difference#:~:text=Adderall%20is%20the%20brand%20name,meant%20to%20last%20all%20day.
[5]https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3749314/
[6] https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/methamphetamine/what-are-long-term-effects-methamphetamine-misuse
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535356/
[8] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2007/011522s040lbl.pdf
[9] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4757677/
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