Are Adderall and Meth the Same Thing?

Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants are drugs that cause activity in the brain to speed up. Many stimulants are approved to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). For example, both Adderall and methamphetamine (Desoxyn) are used for this purpose.

Despite their medical uses, Adderall and meth can be habit-forming and addictive. It is important to note that when someone abuses meth, they are most likely using the street version. In other words, the meth they are consuming might contain a variety of dangerous chemicals and unknown additives.

In 2019, 7.5% of youth and 12.8% of young adults abused prescription stimulants in the United States.[1]

Adderall and meth both increase energy, heighten blood pressure and heart rate and can lead to significant weight loss when abused. Because of the risk of abuse, they are both considered Schedule II controlled substances.[2]

While meth and Adderall share some similarities, they have many differences. Meth has a higher risk of abuse and is not prescribed as often as Adderall. Additionally, they have a difference in chemical structure, as methamphetamine has an additional methyl group.

How are Adderall and Meth Similar?

Adderall is a prescription drug that is used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Meth is used for the same medicinal purpose under the brand name Desoxyn.

Both substances are central nervous system stimulants and contain amphetamines. Adderall is a combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts while Desoxyn only contains methamphetamine.

While each drug can be used to treat ADHD, they are also common drugs of abuse. Both of them can lead to heightened energy, increased heart rate, a rush of euphoria, excessive sweating, insomnia, lessened appetite, and more. Long-term use of either substance will lead to dependence and addiction.

Since Adderall and meth both pose a potential for abuse and addiction, they are classified as Schedule II substances. This means they are drugs of abuse despite their legitimate medical uses.

If you or a loved one abuse meth or Adderall, you should seek treatment for stimulant addiction. PAX Memphis is here to assess your needs, determine the best course of treatment, and refer you to a reputable drug rehab program in your area.

Meth vs Adderall: Understanding the Differences

While meth and Adderall are used to treat the same condition and cause similar symptoms, there are many differences between them. For example, they contain different ingredients, have variations in chemical structure, and have varied risks of abuse.

The main differences between Adderall and meth include:

Chemical Structure

Many people believe that meth and Adderall have the same chemical structure because they appear similar. However, there are small differences that set them apart. To explain, meth contains an extra methyl group that has one carbon atom and three hydrogen atoms.[3]

Ingredients

Prescription meth only contains methamphetamine hydrochloride. Adderall contains dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate monohydrate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate.[4]

You also have to take into consideration that there is an illicit type of meth that people buy off of the street. This substance contains methamphetamine and a variety of dangerous chemicals, including:[5]

• Ether
• Paint thinner
• Freon
• Acetone
• Drain cleaner
• Battery acid
• And more

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Risk of Abuse

Because there is an illicit form of meth that circulates the streets, the risk of abuse is higher. Additionally, some of the long-term risks of meth abuse are more severe than Adderall abuse, including dental decay, substance-induced psychosis, malnutrition, and sores on the skin.

While people do abuse Adderall, there is a higher percentage of individuals taking the medication to treat their ADHD.

Whether you are abusing meth or Adderall, you should seek help from an addiction treatment program. Even though meth abuse tends to be a bit riskier than Adderall abuse, you still require professional help.

Prescribing

Adderall and the prescription version of meth (Desoxyn) are used to treat ADHD. That said, Adderall is used more frequently. This is because the risk of abuse associated with Adderall is lower than meth.

Find Help for Adderall or Meth Abuse

If you or a loved one abuse meth or Adderall, it’s time to seek help. No matter which drug you are addicted to, recovering can be difficult. Thankfully, drug rehab centers will offer services like medical detox, evidence-based therapies, and relapse prevention planning to improve your chances at long-term sobriety.

At PAX Memphis, our addiction counselors will provide you with an in-depth assessment. This will be used to determine your needs and draft an individualized treatment plan. Once this is created, we can refer you to a stimulant addiction treatment center in your area that is suited to your needs.

Contact us today to learn more about meth and Adderall addiction treatment.

References:

1. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): PRESCRIPTION STIMULANT MISUSE AND PREVENTION AMONG YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS
2. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Drug Scheduling
3. The National Library of Medicine (NLM): Methamphetamine 
4. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Adderall Label
5. The Department of Justice (DOJ): Meth Awareness