The medications listed on this website are provided for informational purposes only. Their inclusion does not guarantee that they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers. This list is not exhaustive, and healthcare providers may prescribe other medications, including non-stimulant options, based on the patient's unique health circumstances and needs.
Phentermine and Adderall both fall under the stimulant category of ADHD medications. The two types of drugs are used for two different purposes. For example, experts approve Phentermine for weight loss, while Adderall is typically used to treat ADHD.
More often, people who use Adderall tend to experience weight loss, so sometimes, the drug can be prescribed as a weight loss aid. In this article, we look into the differences between Phentermine vs. Adderall, how to start using one after the other and if one can be substituted for the other.
Talk to your health care provider and find out how they can assist you regarding ADHD treatment. Click here to schedule your appointment today.
Is It Safe to Take Adderall and Phentermine Together?
Experts warn against taking Adderall together with Phentermine. This is because both of these medications are stimulant drugs. Therefore taking them together might lead to a similar mechanism of action in the body, thus increasing the risk of severe side effects such as:
- High blood pressure
- Nausea
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Restlessness
- Lack of coordination
Both drugs work by releasing various neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin in your brain. Such neurotransmitters have noticeable effects, including:
- Improved mood
- Suppressed appetite
- Reduced fatigue
- High mental alertness
Both Phentermine and Adderall work almost similarly, but Adderall is generally the best drug for ADHD regarding how it affects the release of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Click the button below to book your appointment with an ADHD expert and get help treating your ADHD.
Does Phentermine Give You Energy?
Many people have reported experiencing an energy boost when using Phentermine for weight loss. In addition, most find that using the drug helps them keep track as they live a more active lifestyle and lose weight. Phentermine is the active ingredient for Adipex-P, and it works by sending signals to your brain telling you that you’re full or aren’t hungry. When it combines with adrenaline, your body increases fatty acids and glucose levels and breaks down stored fat, leading to increased energy production.
When this happens, more blood goes to your muscles, and more oxygen fills your lungs. This, in turn, stimulates your body to increase its activity levels so that the rush of energy from the adrenaline can find a home. Suppose you feel like you aren’t getting the extra energy boost even after taking your regular Phentermine dosage. In that case, you could do the following activities to help you enhance the drug’s effects without necessarily increasing the dosage amount:
Drink Water
Whenever your body gets dehydrated, you may end up feeling tired. Always ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day. An excellent way to ensure you get the right amount of water every day is to always carry a water bottle with you and refill it whenever you can.
Remain Active
Physical activity and exercise may feel draining. However, it can actually be a significant energy boost, especially when coupled with Phentermine. Whenever you feel a loss of energy, try taking a quick walk or go for a jog, and you’ll be surprised just how quickly you become energized.
Eat Healthy Foods
The types of food you eat have a significant impact on whether the Phentermine will work or not. For example, if you eat acidic food items such as coffee, ice cream, or alcohol, your body may end up rejecting the Phentermine. This may lead to the drug passing through your body without taking effect. Try substituting any junk or acidic foods for healthy meals like broccoli, cucumbers, and almonds to allow that drug to stay in your body for a while and take maximum effect.
How Long Should You Wait Before Starting Adderall After Phentermine?
As previously stated, taking Adderall and Phentermine can have disastrous effects. It takes about three to four hours for the drug to take effect when absorbed. Phentermine has a 20-hour half-life. This refers to the time that the liver takes to metabolize the dosage. If you want to start taking Adderall, it is advisable to wait for Phentermine to leave your system altogether. This may take about five half-lives which roughly translates to five days.
After that, the doctor will advise you on how to take the Phentermine, but generally, it’s taken once every day in the morning as an extended-release capsule or half an hour before meals thrice a day as tablets. Experts also recommend taking Phentermine 12 hours before bed since Phentermine tends to cause insomnia. The doctor would recommend using the drug for less than 12 weeks. However, if you start noticing the drug isn’t as effective as before, talk to your doctor. They will be able to assess the situation and prescribe more if need be.
In Conclusion
Adderall is a better option for treating ADHD, while Phentermine is ideal for weight loss issues in a controlled setting. A disclaimer for these two drugs is that they can both get addictive, so it’s always best to seek medical help before taking any of them.
Talk to your health care provider and find out how they can assist you regarding ADHD treatment. Click here to schedule your appointment today.
