Adderall vs. Methamphetamine: What’s The Difference?
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Adderall vs. Methamphetamine: What’s The Difference?
Although Adderall and methamphetamine (meth) have similarities, they are different drugs. For instance, meth is far more potent and longer-lasting than Adderall.
Adderall is a prescription stimulant used to treat narcolepsy and ADHD. On the other hand, meth is rarely prescribed for ADHD; when it is prescribed, it has a lower dosage than adderral.
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Is Adderall Meth?
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How are Meth and Adderall Similar?
Both substances are schedule II drugs which put you at risk for substance use disorder (SUD). They’re also both medications with legitimate medical use approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Additionally, they’re both stimulants that belong to the amphetamine drug category. They also have similar effects on the brain, such as a rush of dopamine and mood changes.
Do Adderall and Meth Have the Same Chemical Makeup?
Meth and Adderall are often referred to as chemical cousins because they tend to share the same ingredients. However, meth has an additional methyl group in its structure, which includes a single carbon atom and three hydrogen atoms.
Prescription meth and Adderall contain various inactive ingredients. These include food coloring, cornstarch, and more.
However, there is a difference in the ingredients of prescription meth and illegal “street” meth, which can vary by dealer.
Which Drug is Stronger?
Most people consider meth to be stronger than Adderall. But this depends on the dose of the medication.
It also depends on whether you compare it to Adderall’s immediate- or extended-release version. On the other hand, it’s difficult to know the strength of street meth.
Most people have no idea how potent their dose of street meth is. And it’s typically mixed with other drugs.
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What Are the Side Effects of Meth and Adderall?
Meth and Adderall both trigger various side effects and pose a danger to users. Both of these substances have short and long-term side effects, which include:
Short-Term Effects of Meth and Adderall
| Short-term Effects of Meth | Short-term Effects of Adderall |
| Increased attention and activity | Convulsions |
| Decreased fatigue | Paranoia |
| Insomnia | Irregular heartbeat |
| Decreased appetite | Appetite loss and weight loss |
| Euphoria | Nausea and dizziness |
| Increased respiration | Insomnia |
| Rapid or irregular heartbeat | Hallucinations |
| Hyperthermia | Depression or anxiety |
| Dry mouth | |
| Lower back or side pain | |
| Lack of strength | |
| Constipation | |
| Frequent urge to urinate | |
| Twitching and seizures | |
| Peeling skin |
Long-Term Side Effects of Meth and Adderall
| Long-term Effects of Meth | Long-term Effects of Adderall |
| Addiction | Addiction |
| Paranoia | Heart-related issues |
| Hallucinations | Psychiatric problems |
| Repetitive motor activity | Changes in the brain |
| Problems with motor skills | Malnutrition |
| Changes in brain function | Skin disorders |
| Memory loss | |
| Mood change | |
| Weight loss | |
| Problems with thinking | |
| Easily distractable | |
| Aggressive behavior | |
| Severe dental problems |
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Is Meth More Dangerous Than Adderall?
In general, meth is more dangerous than Adderall. However, when used therapeutically under the supervision of a doctor, both drugs can be safe.
Meth is typically considered more dangerous because it’s rarely prescribed. It’s most commonly purchased on the street, which means it’s likely to contain toxic contaminants. Meanwhile, the “street” version of Adderall carries the same risk of contamination.
Which One is More Addictive?
Although they have the same potential for addiction and dependence, meth is typically more addictive because of its intense effects.
The fact that it’s also sold illegally means it can be laced with toxic contaminants and other drugs to increase its potency.
What are the Signs of an Adderall and Meth Addiction?
Aside from the short and long-term side effects of these drugs listed above, there are other signs that you, or someone you know, has developed an addiction to meth or Adderall.
These include:
| Signs of an Adderall Addiction | Signs of a Meth Addiction |
| Talkativeness | Dilated pupils |
| Loss of appetite and excessive weight loss | Loss of appetite and excessive weight loss |
| Easily excitable | Sleeplessness |
| Changes in social circle | Increased euphoria |
| Problems with work, school, and social life | Elevated body temperature |
| Unexplained financial problems | Violent behavior |
| Aggressive and impulsive behavior | Long periods of wakefulness followed by a sudden crash |
| Neglecting personal hygiene | Skin sores |
| Mania | Twitching and jerky movements |
| Disorientation |
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Symptoms of Meth or Adderall Withdrawal
If you’ve been using Adderall or meth for a long time, suddenly stopping may cause withdrawal. Oftentimes, your doctor will gradually reduce or taper your dosage to avoid withdrawal.
Additionally, Adderall and meth withdrawal symptoms require medical attention to manage. These symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Agitation
- Nightmares
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Stomach aches
- Dehydration
- Seizure
- Uncontrollable itching
The first few days and weeks after someone stops using these drugs pose the highest risk of health complications. It can also increase the risk of relapse.
Treatment for Adderall or Meth Addiction
Medical support usually includes medication to ease withdrawal symptoms. Medical detox can help clear the drug from your body with fewer complications and risks.
Following detoxification, there are many different treatment options available, including:
- Inpatient treatment: Involves checking yourself into a rehab facility for 24-hour medical supervision.
- Outpatient treatment: A treatment program where people are allowed to leave the rehab facility.
- Addiction therapies: Different types of therapies are available to tackle your specific needs with addiction.
- Motivational interviewing: A therapeutic approach designed to help people make behavioral changes for their health.
- Contingency management therapy: Involves using incentives such as cash prizes and vouchers to reward good behavior.
- Support groups & aftercare: Provides a much-needed community to help maintain sobriety after treatment.
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- Mccance-Katz, E. “The National Survey on Drug Use and Health: 2017.” SAMHSA.gov, 2018.
- NIDA. “Methamphetamine.” National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2024.
- Cole, V.T. & Hussong, A.M. “Psychosocial functioning among college students who misuse stimulants versus other drugs.” Addict Behav, 2020.
- “Know the Risks of Meth.” www.samhsa.gov.
- Sharbaf Shoar et al. “Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine.” Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing, 2023.
- Martin, D. & Le, J.K. “Amphetamine.” Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing, 2023
- Yasaei, R. & Saadabadi, A. “Methamphetamine.” Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing, 2025.
- DEA. “Drug Scheduling.” Drug Enforcement Agency, 2018.
