Adderall IR vs Adderall XR: Finding the Best Option for ADHD

Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) is a widely used medication for treating ADHD. It combines two stimulants that boost chemicals in the brain essential for improving focus, attention, and impulse control, which are areas often challenging for those with ADHD.

In 2021, 41.4 million Adderall prescriptions were filled in the US, a 10% increase from the previous year. This shows the growing reliance on Adderall for managing ADHD. The medication comes in two forms–Immediate Release (IR) and Extended Release (XR). Both are FDA-approved, but they differ in how fast the drug takes effect and how long it lasts.

In this article, we’ll compare Adderall IR vs Adderall XR and explain how each version works, its benefits, and potential side effects to help patients choose the right ADHD medication.

How Adderall Works for ADHD

Adderall helps by enhancing brain activity in areas that control attention and behavior regulation. In people with ADHD, brain areas involved in executive function, such as the prefrontal cortex, often exhibit reduced activity.

The stimulants in Adderall increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels, which help improve attention, reduce impulsivity, and promote better control over hyperactivity. This mechanism of action is similar for both Adderall IR and Adderall XR, but the way the drug is released into the bloodstream varies significantly between the two formulations.

Efficacy of Adderall for ADHD

Adderall, in both its immediate-release and extended-release formulations, is widely regarded as an effective treatment for ADHD.

A meta-analysis in 2002 reviewed data from six studies that examined the effects of standard-release Adderall. The findings confirmed that Adderall is significantly effective in treating symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity-impulsivity, and aggression.

Additionally, the analysis demonstrated that the medication’s efficacy was consistent across various groups (clinicians, parents, and teachers) who provided ratings on the patients' behaviors and outcomes.

Comparing Adderall IR vs Adderall XR

Here’s a break down of the key differences between Adderall XR versus Adderall IR:

FDA-Approved Indications

Adderall IR is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in both children and adults. Specifically, it is approved for children aged 3 years and older. It is also approved for the treatment of narcolepsy, a sleep disorder marked by excessive daytime sleepiness.

In contrast, Adderall XR is approved exclusively for the treatment of ADHD in children aged 6 and older, adolescents, and adults. Unlike Adderall IR, Adderall XR is not approved for treating narcolepsy.

Strengths and Formulation

When comparing Adderall IR vs XR dosage, Adderall IR comes in tablet form, offering dosage strengths of:

• 5 mg
• 7.5 mg
• 10 mg
• 12.5 mg
• 15 mg
• 20 mg
• 30 mg

Meanwhile, Adderall XR is available in capsule form, with dosage strengths of:

• 5 mg
• 10 mg
• 15 mg
• 20 mg
• 25 mg
• 30 mg

Duration of Action

Adderall IR generally works for 4 to 6 hours, so multiple doses may be needed during the day to manage symptoms effectively. On the other hand, Adderall XR offers symptom relief for 8 to 12 hours.

Onset of Action

Both Adderall IR and XR begin working within 30 to 45 minutes after ingestion. However, the "time to peak"—the point at which the medication reaches its highest concentration in the bloodstream and is most effective—differs between the two.

Adderall IR reaches its peak effect around 3 hours after taking it, while Adderall XR peaks at around 7 hours. This makes Adderall IR beneficial in situations where immediate symptom control is necessary.

Dosing Frequency

Adderall XR is typically prescribed in amounts ranging from 10 to 30 mg per day. With Adderall IR, users need to take 2.5 to 40 mg per day divided into 1 to 3 doses, typically spaced 4 to 6 hours apart. This dosing schedule can be inconvenient for those with busy routines, and missing doses can lead to inconsistent symptom control.

Although, the flexibility of Adderall IR’s dosing can be advantageous in managing appetite. Stimulant medications often suppress appetite, which can make it challenging to consume sufficient nutrients and may affect growth and development in children.

By spacing doses farther apart, individuals may have periods when their appetite returns, allowing for better nutrient intake between doses.

Side Effects

Both Adderall IR and Adderall XR have similar side effect profiles due to their identical active ingredients. Common side effects include:

• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Dry mouth
• Insomnia
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Irritability
• Increased heart rate
• Nervousness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever

The risk and intensity of these side effects may differ slightly between the two formulations. Additionally, individuals taking Adderall XR are more likely to experience insomnia if the medication is taken later in the day because its effects last longer into the evening. Adderall IR is less likely to interfere with sleep if taken earlier in the day.

Cost and Accessibility

When comparing the costs, there are notable differences between branded and generic versions of the medication. Below is a breakdown of the cost variations:

Adderall IR vs. Adderall XR (Branded)

According to GoodRx, the price for 90 tablets of 5 mg Adderall IR ranges between $950 to $1,074, depending on the pharmacy. For the extended-release formulation, the price for 90 capsules of 5 mg ranges from $630 to $840.

Adderall IR has been affected by supply chain disruptions, which include difficulties in sourcing ingredients or manufacturing delays. These shortages have led to increased demand for the drug, driving up its price.

Amphetamine Salt Combo vs. Amphetamine Salt Combo XR (Generic)

The generic form, listed as Amphetamine Salt Combo, is significantly more affordable. For 90 tablets of 5 mg, the cost ranges from $26.96 to $52.50, while Amphetamine Salt Combo XR ranges from $40.46 to $145. This cost difference can be attributed to the complexity of manufacturing the extended-release formulation.

For those seeking more affordable options, opting for generic versions can be a cost-effective alternative to branded Adderall.

Adderall XR vs IR Pros and Cons

Adderall IR offers several unique benefits that may make it a better choice for some individuals. These include:

• Achieves its maximum effect more quickly
• Better for short-term symptom relief
• More flexibility with dosing throughout the day

However, there are also important considerations when choosing Adderall IR:

• Requires multiple doses for full-day symptom control
• Higher potential for abuse due to rapid release
• More noticeable peaks and crashes
• Can disrupt sleep if taken too late
• Currently priced higher due to shortage

For other patients, Adderall XR may be the preferable choice due to:

• Convenient once-daily dosing
• Provides long-lasting symptom control (up to 12 hours)
• Reduces need for midday dosing, ideal for work/school
• Gradual release minimizes peaks and crashes
• Lower abuse potential compared to IR

Nevertheless, it’s also important to keep in mind the following when considering Adderall XR:

• Effects may fade late in the day
• Not ideal for short-term needs or late tasks
• Side effects may last longer

Final Thoughts

Adderall IR offers quick relief with flexible dosing, suitable for those who need short-term symptom control. However, its shorter duration of action requires multiple doses throughout the day, and the current shortage has driven up its price. On the other hand, Adderall XR provides the convenience of once-daily dosing and long-lasting symptom relief for up to 12 hours. This is ideal for individuals with busy routines.

Both formulations share similar side effects, but Adderall XR’s gradual release reduces peaks and crashes. Although, its effects may last into the evening, potentially causing insomnia. Finally, since these are prescription medications, they should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional and never without a valid prescription.

FAQs on Adderall IR vs Adderall XR

Can Adderall XR capsules be opened?

Yes, Adderall XR capsules can be opened and the beads inside can be sprinkled on a small amount of soft food (like applesauce) for easier ingestion. However, the beads should not be chewed or crushed, as this would destroy the extended-release mechanism.

Can you take Adderall XR and IR together?

Yes, in certain cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe both Adderall IR and XR together. This combination might be used to extend symptom control throughout the day, where XR provides longer relief, and IR is used for breakthrough symptoms or later in the day. However, this should only be done under medical supervision to avoid potential misuse or an overdose, which can be fatal.

Is Adderall IR stronger than XR?

Neither Adderall IR or XR is inherently "stronger" than the other. They both contain the same active ingredients, but the difference lies in how the medication is released and absorbed by the body. Adderall IR provides a quicker, more immediate release of medication, while Adderall XR releases the medication gradually over time, leading to more sustained effects. The strength of the medication depends on the dosage prescribed rather than the formulation itself.

What is the conversion ratio between Adderall XR and IR?

The conversion from Adderall XR to IR is typically a 1:1 dosage, meaning the total daily dose remains the same. For example, a 20 mg dose of Adderall XR can be converted to two 10 mg doses of Adderall IR, taken 4-6 hours apart.

Is Adderall XR or IR more likely to cause sleep problems?

Both Adderall XR and IR can cause sleep problems if taken too late in the day due to their stimulant effects. Adderall XR is designed to last up to 12 hours, so taking it in the morning is recommended to avoid insomnia. Adderall IR can be scheduled to minimize impact on sleep. However, both should be carefully timed according to a healthcare provider's guidance.