Mydayis vs. Adderall: Similarities and Differences

Medically reviewed by Alex Yampolsky, PharmD

When being diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), there are several medications that your healthcare provider may choose from to help manage your symptoms.

Both Mydayis and Adderall are mixed amphetamine salt medications that treat ADHD. They both contain amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Adderall comes in an immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER) form, whereas Mydayis is available in an ER version.

This article will highlight some key differences and similarities between both.

Mydayis vs. Adderall: Similarities & Differences

Although both Mydayis and Adderall have the same uses and active ingredients, some key differences include what age groups can take them, how long they work, and dosing. Adderall comes in an immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER) form. The ER form of Adderall is referred to as Adderall XR. Mydayis is available in an ER version.

The table below summarizes the similarities and differences between the two medications.

Dosing and Dosage Forms for Mydayis vs. Adderall

IR Adderall comes in several dosage strengths, including:

• 5 milligrams (mg)

• 7.5 mg

• 10 mg

• 12.5 mg

• 15 mg

• 20 mg

• 30 mg

Adderall XR comes in the following strengths:

• 5 mg

• 10 mg

• 15 mg

• 20 mg

• 25 mg

• 30 mg

Unlike Adderall, Mydayis only comes as an ER capsule, meaning it should only be taken once daily. Its dosage strengths include:

• 12.5 mg

• 25 mg

• 37.5 mg

• 50 mg

Related: Adderall XR vs. IR: How Are They Different?

Side Effects

The following table lists a side-by-side comparison of the most common side effects of Mydayis and Adderall in adults. Side effects are considered common when they occur in 5% or more of people in clinical trials.

The following table lists the most common side effects of Mydayis and Adderall in children and adolescents.

Risk of Misuse and Dependency

Both Mydayis and Adderall carry a boxed warning for the risk of abuse and dependence.

Because both Mydayis and Adderall are considered stimulants, there is a potential to develop a dependency on these medications.

To lower this risk, always take your medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you begin to feel like you need to take more of your medication than prescribed, please reach out to your provider to discuss your options for managing treatment.

Drug Interactions

Both Mydayis and Adderall interact with several medications, including:

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

• Other antidepressants

• Saint-John's-wort

• Opioids

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

MAOIs

MAOIs are a class of antidepressants that can cause a serious interaction with both Mydayis and Adderall. For this reason, it is necessary to space out your MAOI and Mydayis or Adderall by at least two weeks.

Other Antidepressants

Other classes of antidepressants that interact with Mydayis and Adderall are:

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)

• Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)

When taken with Mydayis or Adderall, these medications can increase the amount of the drug in your body, which may cause unwanted side effects, including serotonin syndrome.

To prevent drug interactions, share all your current and previous medication history with your healthcare provider before starting Mydayis or Adderall.

Saint- John’s-Wort

Saint-John's-wort is an herbal supplement. When taken in combination with Mydayis or Adderall, it can increase the risk of developing side effects.

Tell your provider about any herbal or dietary supplements you are taking before starting treatment.

Opioids

Taking opioids alongside Mydayis or Adderall can increase the risk of developing serotonin syndrome. Similar to stimulants, opioids also have a high risk of abuse and dependency.

PPIs

PPIs, such as Protonix (pantoprazole), are medications that can help reduce the acidity in your stomach. They are used to help treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Because they can reduce the acid in your stomach, they can also affect how medications are broken down in the body after you swallow them, which can cause unwanted side effects. Always talk to your healthcare provider about the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter (OTC) medications, as they can also have the potential to interact with Mydayis or Adderall.

Which Is Right for You?

Before starting a new treatment, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider about your medical history, including what medications (prescription and OTC) and herbal or dietary supplements you take.

Your provider may also consider your preferences on how you want to take your medications or whether you have trouble swallowing pills. For example, ER capsules of Adderall and Mydayis can be opened and sprinkled over food, such as applesauce, to consume. However, the IR tablet of Adderall must be swallowed whole.

Additionally, IR Adderall must be taken twice daily, whereas Adderall XR and Mydayis only need to be taken once daily.

Summary

When deciding between Mydayis and Adderall for the treatment of your ADHD, it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider certain differences between these medications. This includes side effects, dosing, and how often you need to take them.

Never take more of your medication than what is prescribed, and always follow up with your healthcare provider on routine appointments.

Read the original article on Verywell Health.