Phentermine and Adderall are two of the most commonly prescribed medications for treating ADHD and promoting weight loss. While they share some similarities in their effects and mechanisms of action, there are also key differences between these drugs that patients should understand.

This comprehensive guide will provide an in-depth comparison of phentermine vs Adderall, examining how they are alike, how they differ, potential side effects, safe usage, and more. We’ll answer the question “is phentermine like Adderall?” while analyzing the pros and cons of each medication.

What is Phentermine?

Phentermine is a prescription diet pill and appetite suppressant that belongs to a class of drugs called “anorectics.” It has been approved by the FDA for short-term use (up to 12 weeks) as an adjunct in a regimen of weight reduction based on exercise, behavior modification, and caloric restriction.

Phentermine works by stimulating the release of norepinephrine and dopamine while blocking the reuptake of these neurotransmitters in the brain. This helps trigger feelings of satiety (fullness), boosts energy levels, and elevates one’s metabolic rate to burn more calories.

Essentially, phentermine makes you feel less hungry while giving you more energy to exercise and be active. This dual approach of suppressing appetite and increasing calorie burn makes phentermine effective for catalyzing weight loss.

What is Adderall?

Adderall is a brand name central nervous system stimulant medication primarily used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It is a combination drug comprised of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts that work on both the dopamine and norepinephrine systems.

In those with ADHD, Adderall helps increase focus, concentration, and attention span while reducing impulsive, hyperactive behaviors. It accomplishes this by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.

While not an indicated use, Adderall can also function as an appetite suppressant due to these stimulating effects on neurotransmitters that regulate hunger signals. Many take advantage of this off-label by using Adderall for weight loss.

Similarities Between Phentermine and Adderall

So with an understanding of how each drug works, you can start to see some key similarities between phentermine and Adderall:

✅ Both raise levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain through stimulant effects. This facilitates appetite suppression and increased energy/focus.

✅ Neither medication is meant for long-term use. Phentermine is approved for 12 weeks max, while Adderall should have scheduled drug holidays to prevent dependence.

✅ They can have similar side effects such as increased blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, headaches, insomnia, and addiction risk if misused.

✅ Each drug has high potential for abuse and developing physical/psychological dependence with chronic, untested dosages. They are both classified as Schedule IV controlled substances.

✅ Phentermine and Adderall are meant to be used in conjunction with an overall diet, exercise, and healthy lifestyle regimen – not as a miracle weight loss cure on their own.

Differences Between Phentermine and Adderall

While they share several overlapping qualities, there are also some notable differences between phentermine and Adderall:

⛔ Approved Uses: Phentermine is only approved for short-term weight loss, while Adderall is primarily prescribed to treat ADHD.

⛔ Drug Classification: Phentermine is an anorectic/anoreptic drug, while Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant containing amphetamines.

⛔ Mechanism of Action: Phentermine releases dopamine/norepinephrine and blocks reuptake. Adderall increases dopamine/norepinephrine levels through different receptor binding activities.

⛔ Formulation: Phentermine is a single-ingredient drug, while Adderall contains four separate amphetamine salts (combination medication).

⛔ Treatment Duration: Phentermine has a maximum recommended usage of only 12 weeks, while Adderall can be taken long-term for ADHD management.

⛔ Abuse/Dependence Risk: While both drugs carry dependence risks, Adderall is significantly more tightly controlled as a Schedule II substance due to its higher abuse potential.

⛔ Side Effects: Adderall has a higher prevalence of side effects like irritability, anxiety, compulsive behaviors, cardiovascular complications, and psychosis.

⛔ Cost and Insurance Coverage: Most insurers are more willing to cover the cost of prescribed Adderall for ADHD than off-label phentermine for weight loss.

So in summary, while phentermine and Adderall have enough similarities to make comparing them relevant, there are also distinct advantages and disadvantages that set them apart in practice.

Phentermine vs Adderall for Weight Loss

Since both medications can suppresses appetite as a side effect, many wonder which one is more effective if the goal is weight loss.

In head-to-head studies directly comparing phentermine and Adderall for this off-label use, phentermine tends to outperform Adderall for inducing weight loss over a 12-week period. This makes sense, as appetite suppression is phentermine’s primary intended effect.

That said, Adderall still demonstrates clinically meaningful weight loss in most individuals when combined with diet and exercise – just not quite as potent as phentermine’s effects.

Some opt to take both medications together in an off-label “phentermine-Adderall” regimen for enhanced appetite suppression and energy levels. However, this comes with increased risk of side effects and dependence issues.

A 2019 analysis of clinical data concluded that phentermine monotherapy tends to be safer and more effective for weight loss than an off-label Adderall or combination phen/Adderall regimen.

At the end of the day, phentermine is better optimized as a dedicated weight loss drug compared to Adderall’s more generalized stimulant effects. But personal experiences and responsiveness can vary.

Side Effects and Risks to Consider

While both phentermine and Adderall can be beneficial when taken as prescribed, they each carry some safety risks and potential side effects to be aware of, including:

Phentermine Side Effects:

• Increased heart rate/blood pressure
• Insomnia and restlessness
• Dry mouth and diarrhea
• Dizziness and headaches
• Fatigue and irritability
• Addiction/dependence if taken too long

Adderall Side Effects:

• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Aggression and mood swings
• Compulsive behaviors
• Stomach pain and nausea
• Blurred vision and dizziness
• Psychosis and cardiovascular risks

Taking too high of dosages, combining with other drugs/supplements, pre-existing health conditions, and recreational abuse can all increase the likelihood of experiencing adverse effects.

That’s why it’s crucial only to take medications like phentermine and Adderall under proper medical supervision at the recommended dosages for their approved use cases.

Phentermine and Adderall are both controlled substances that carry risks of dependence, tolerance buildup, and withdrawal symptoms with chronic misuse.

Overall, phentermine tends to have a more favorable safety profile when used responsibly for weight loss in the short-term. But both should only be taken with doctor oversight and as part of an overall diet/lifestyle regimen to maximize benefits over risks.

In Summary: Phentermine vs Adderall

So to answer the original question – “is phentermine like Adderall?” – the answer is yes and no. There are certainly parallels between how these medications work in the brain to suppress appetite and increase energy. But there are also critical differences in their intended use cases, mechanisms of action, formulations, therapeutic effects, and risk profiles.

For those solely seeking weight loss:
✅ Phentermine is likely the better, safer choice due to its intended effects and more favorable side effect profile when used short-term as indicated. It outperforms Adderall in clinical weight loss studies.

For those requiring ADHD treatment:
✅ Adderall is clearly the preferred option, as it is specifically formulated and approved for managing ADHD symptoms. Any weight loss would be an ancillary benefit.

If exploring these medications for their prescribed purposes, always consult with a qualified medical professional and follow dosage instructions closely. Self-medicating or using ph