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Drug vs. Drug

Mydayis vs. Adderall: Which ADHD medication Is right for you?

Mydayis and Adderall are both used to treat ADHD. Understand the benefits, risks, and side effects of both medications.
Gerardo Sison medical writer headshot
By | Oct. 1, 2024
Two Rx pill bottles respresenting Mydayis vs. Adderall

Key takeaways

  • Mydayis and Adderall are both stimulants used to treat ADHD by increasing focus and reducing impulsive behaviors.

  • Mydayis lasts up to 16 hours, while Adderall’s immediate-release version lasts 4 to 6 hours, with an extended-release option that lasts up to 12 hours.

  • Adderall can be prescribed for narcolepsy, while Mydayis is only approved for ADHD in individuals aged 13 and older.

  • Both medications can cause side effects like trouble sleeping, decreased appetite, and increased heart rate, and may carry a risk of misuse and addiction.

In this article:

If you’re diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a healthcare provider might recommend medication like Mydayis or Adderall. These two brand-name drugs are potential choices for treating ADHD symptoms because they help improve focus and impulse control. Both Mydayis and Adderall are oral capsules that contain amphetamine salts.

Both medications work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine, in the brain. These medications may be covered by some insurance plans, though costs can vary depending on the insurance company. Although these medications contain similar active ingredients and work in similar ways, they differ in how long they last and how the body processes them. 

What are the main differences between Mydayis and Adderall?

Mydayis and Adderall are brand-name prescription medications used to treat ADHD. They contain a mixture of amphetamine salts as their active ingredients. Both medications belong to a class of drugs called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. 

A key difference between Mydayis and Adderall lies in how they’re formulated and their duration of action. Mydayis is an extended-release medication with effects that last up to 16 hours. It uses a triple-bead release action that releases the medication at different times, which helps keep its effects steady and lasting throughout the day.

On the other hand, Adderall is available as an immediate-release and extended-release version (Adderall XR). The immediate-release version typically lasts for about 4 to 6 hours, while the extended-release capsules can provide effects that last for up to 12 hours.

Mydayis can be prescribed to adults and children 13 and older, while Adderall can be given to people as young as three. Adderall XR may be prescribed to adults and children six and older. 

Main differences between Mydayis and Adderall
Drug class Stimulant Stimulant
Brand/generic status Brand version available only Brand and generic version available 
What is the generic name? Dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts Dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts
What form(s) does the drug come in? Oral extended-release capsule Oral tablet 
What is the standard dosage? 12.5 to 50 mg once daily 5 to 40 mg once in the morning and then every 4 to 6 hours as directed by a doctor.
How long is the typical treatment? Long-term Long-term
Who typically uses the medication? Adults and children 13 years of age and older Adults and children 3 years of age and older

Conditions treated by Mydayis and Adderall

Mydayis and Adderall are FDA-approved to treat ADHD symptoms. These stimulant medications can help improve focus and decrease impulsive behaviors in people with ADHD. In addition to treating ADHD, Adderall has an approved use for narcolepsy, a sleep disorder in which people often feel sleepy during the day and may suddenly fall asleep at unexpected times.

Condition Mydayis Adderall
ADHD  Yes Yes
Narcolepsy No Yes

Is Mydayis or Adderall more effective?

Clinical studies suggest both medications are effective in treating ADHD. They both have similar active ingredients that help improve focus and attention. The choice between them often depends on the individual needs.

One study looked at how ADHD medications work differently for each person, depending on their needs and daily routines. It found that about 62% of children with ADHD are treated with stimulant medications. Mydayis might be a better choice than Adderall for some people because it can last up to 16 hours, providing longer relief from symptoms throughout the day.

Not all people will respond the same way to these medications. Effectiveness can vary based on a person’s medical history, including other medical conditions and medications they have. Consult a doctor or healthcare provider for medical advice on the most appropriate treatment option for you.

Coverage and cost comparison of Mydayis vs. Adderall

While Adderall is available in a generic version, Mydayis is only available as a brand-name drug. Therefore, insurance coverage for these drugs can differ, as commercial insurance and Medicare plans typically prefer to cover generic versions over brand-name ones. 

Without insurance, retail costs for these drugs can vary based on the pharmacy and location. Mydayis capsules are often more expensive than regular Adderall tablets and Adderall XR capsules. However, costs also depend on the quantity prescribed. 

In some cases, you may find better prices through discount programs like SingleCare. Shopping around could also offer better pricing options, whether you’re considering brand names or generics.

Mydayis Adderall
Typically covered by insurance? No Yes (generic)
Typically covered by Medicare Part D? No Yes (generic)
Quantity 30 capsules (50 mg) 60 tablets (20 mg)
Typical Medicare copay Varies Varies
SingleCare cost $112 $25

Common side effects of Mydayis vs. Adderall

Because they belong to the same drug class, Mydayis and Adderall share many common side effects. People taking these medications may experience increased heart rate, trouble sleeping, and weight loss. Other common side effects of these stimulant medications include dry mouth, nausea, anxiety, irritability, and upset stomach. 

Both medications may also cause serious side effects, including high blood pressure, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and heart attacks, especially in people with heart problems. 

These medications are also controlled substances that may carry a risk of misuse, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms when discontinued abruptly. Allergic reactions are also possible. 

Mydayis Adderall
Side Effect Applicable? Frequency Applicable? Frequency
Trouble sleeping Yes 31% Yes 17%
Decreased appetite Yes 30% Yes 22%
Dry mouth Yes 23% Yes 35%
Nausea Yes 8% Yes 8%
Anxiety Yes 7% Yes 8%
Increased heart rate Yes 9% Yes 6%
Weight loss Yes 9% Yes 10%
Irritability Yes 6% Yes 9%
Upset stomach Yes 4% Yes 14%

This may not be a complete list of adverse effects that can occur. Please refer to your doctor or healthcare provider to learn more.

Source: DailyMed (Mydayis), DailyMed (Adderall XR) 

Drug interactions of Mydayis vs. Adderall

Both Mydayis and Adderall can have dangerous interactions with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Taking either medication with MAOIs, or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI, can cause a severe increase in blood pressure (hypertensive crisis), which could lead to serious complications like stroke or even death.

Mydayis and Adderall can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when used with drugs that affect serotonin levels, such as certain antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Serotonin syndrome is a serious condition that can cause symptoms like confusion, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure.

Alkalinizing agents, like certain antacids, can increase the levels of Mydayis or Adderall in the blood, making the effects of the stimulant stronger. On the other hand, acidifying agents, such as some stomach medicines, can lower the blood levels of these medications, reducing their effectiveness.

Drug Drug Class Mydayis Adderall
Nardil (phenelzine)

Parnate (tranylcypromine)

Emsam (selegiline)

 MAOI Yes Yes
Prozac (fluoxetine)

Zoloft (sertraline)

Lexapro (escitalopram)

Celexa (citalopram)

 SSRI Yes Yes
Effexor XR (venlafaxine)

Cymbalta (duloxetine)

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine)

 SNRI Yes Yes
Elavil (amitriptyline)

Pamelor (nortriptyline)

Tofranil (imipramine)

 Tricyclic antidepressant Yes Yes
Imitrex (sumatriptan)

Maxalt (rizatriptan)

Zomig (zolmitriptan)

 Triptan Yes Yes
Diamox (acetazolamide)

Sodium bicarbonate

 Alkalinizing agent Yes Yes
Ismelin (guanethidine)

Serpasil (reserpine)

Glutamic acid

 Acidifying agent Yes Yes

This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Please consult your doctor before taking these medications.

Warnings of Mydayis and Adderall

Both Mydayis and Adderall carry a high risk of abuse and addiction. Misusing these drugs by taking higher doses or using them in ways not prescribed can lead to overdose and, in some cases, death. 

Both drugs can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Therefore, people with serious heart conditions, like heart disease or arrhythmias, may need to avoid these medications.

In addition, both Mydayis and Adderall may worsen mental health symptoms in people with pre-existing psychosis or cause new psychotic or manic symptoms, even in patients without a history of mental illness. Report any hallucinations, delusions, or mood changes to a healthcare provider. 

These stimulants may slow growth in children, so their height and weight should be monitored regularly during treatment. Both medications can also lower the seizure threshold, meaning they can make seizures more likely in people who are at risk.

Mydayis and Adderall may cause Raynaud’s phenomenon, in which blood flow to the fingers and toes is reduced, causing cold sensations, pain, and skin color changes. In rare cases, this condition can lead to sores or tissue damage.

Mydayis and Adderall can cause motor and verbal tics or worsen Tourette’s syndrome in people who are predisposed to these conditions. People with a family history of tics or Tourette’s syndrome should be evaluated before starting these stimulants.

Frequently asked questions about Mydayis vs. Adderall

What is Mydayis?

Mydayis is a prescription drug used to treat symptoms of ADHD. It belongs to a group of medications known as stimulants and is designed as an extended-release formulation to provide all-day symptom control. Clinical trials have shown that Mydayis can help improve focus and reduce impulsivity in individuals with ADHD.

What is Adderall?

Adderall is a prescription drug commonly used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It combines two stimulants, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, to help improve attention and reduce hyperactive and impulsive behavior. Adderall is available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations.

Are Mydayis and Adderall the same?

While Mydayis and Adderall are both prescription drugs used to treat ADHD, they are not the same. Mydayis is an extended-release drug with effects that last up to 16 hours, whereas Adderall comes in both immediate-release and extended-release forms. Both medications have similar side effects, such as increased heart rate and decreased appetite.

Is Mydayis or Adderall better?

The best medication for treating ADHD varies from person to person. Some may find Mydayis’s longer-lasting effects more convenient, while others may prefer the flexibility of Adderall’s immediate-release option. Consult a healthcare provider to determine which medication may be better.

Can I use Mydayis or Adderall while pregnant?

Using Mydayis or Adderall during pregnancy is generally not recommended due to the high potential for adverse effects, such as low birth weight. Pregnant individuals should consult their healthcare providers to discuss the risks and potential benefits before continuing or starting these medications.

Can I use Mydayis or Adderall with alcohol?

It is not recommended to use Mydayis or Adderall with alcohol. Combining these prescription drugs with alcohol can increase the risk of adverse effects, such as heart problems and impaired judgment. Always consult a healthcare provider before mixing medications with alcohol.