
Phentermine and Adderall are two different versions of amphetamine that are commonly used off-label for each other’s intended purposes.
Even though their main jobs are different, when used in this way, they have been known to have similar effects.
But it’s important to remember that if you use these medicines in ways that go beyond what the instructions say, you might not get the results you want.
Whether you want to lose weight or have more focus and energy, it’s important to be careful with these medications and talk to a doctor before starting any new treatment plans.
This post will explain the efficacy, side effects, and cost of these two therapies so you may understand why they are marketed differently and for different conditions.
Phentermine vs Adderall – Overview
Phentermine and Adderall are two stimulants that are known to aid in weight loss and ADHD treatment, respectively.
While Phentermine is FDA-approved for those with a BMI over 30 or 27, Adderall is not FDA-approved for weight loss but is commonly prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy.
The two drugs have different mechanisms of action, with Phentermine suppressing hunger and increasing energy expenditure, and Adderall stimulating the central nervous system to enhance focus and attention.
Although both drugs have been used off-label for each other’s purposes, there are differences in their effectiveness when treating individual conditions. It is important to note that these drugs should only be used under the supervision of a medical professional.
Difference Between Phentermine and Adderall
Phentermine is a weight loss medication, whereas Adderall is an ADHD medication. Even though they are both stimulants, they have different impacts on the body. Phentermine reduces hunger, while Adderall improves attention and energy.
Continue reading to learn how they differ in terms of effectiveness, side effects, and cost.
1. Effectiveness
Phentermine and Adderall are two drugs that have been used for different purposes, but their potential to be effective in treating ADHD and obesity has caught the attention of many in the medical community.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that these two drugs are effective for weight loss and the management of ADHD.
Even though the use of these drugs should be closely watched, we can’t ignore the fact that they might help treat these conditions.
With more research and the right kind of medical supervision, these drugs can help people with ADHD and obesity in important ways.
Weight loss with Phentermine vs. Adderall
When it comes to losing weight, there is a lot more evidence that phentermine is better than Adderall.
A clinical trial found that 87.5% of participants on the optimum dose of 37.5 mg phentermine HCl lost 5% or more of their body weight during a 12-week trial.
A significant 58.3% also lost 10% or more, demonstrating the efficacy of phentermine as an FDA-approved weight loss medication.
On the other hand, even though some people have promoted Adderall as a weight loss aid, there is no solid scientific evidence to back this claim.
Despite a theory that Adderall may impact certain brain chemicals to cause weight loss, there simply isn’t enough research to back up this claim.
In the phentermine vs. Adderall debate, it’s clear that phentermine is the superior option for those seeking to lose weight.

Phentermine versus Adderall – ADHD
When it comes to treating ADHD, many different medications are available. Adderall is a common medication that has been shown to work 49% of the time when compared to a placebo in a clinical trial.
The best results were seen in children aged 5-7 (60%) and 8–9 (71%). Adderall is also more potent than other drugs, such as Ritalin.
Even though a case report says that phentermine hydrochloride helped treat ADHD in a 4-year-old boy, more evidence is needed to support its use.
For this reason, Adderall is the preferred choice for ADHD treatment over phentermine. It’s important to work closely with a medical professional to determine the best treatment plan for each individual.
2. Side Effects of Phentermine versus Adderall
When comparing the side effects of Phentermine and Adderall, it is important to note that both medications have their own unique set of potential adverse reactions.
While both drugs may cause gastrointestinal symptoms, headaches, insomnia, high blood pressure, and changes in libido, Adderall has been known to potentially cause hallucinations, while Phentermine may result in dry mouth.
Because of these different side effects, it’s important for people to talk to their doctor before starting either drug and to keep in touch with them to make sure the treatment plan is safe and working.
Overall, understanding the potential side effects of Phentermine versus Adderall is crucial to making informed decisions about treatment options.
3. Cost
The price of Adderall and phentermine can change based on the seller, the location, and any available discounts.
According to drugs.com, 5 mg of Adderall can cost $9.53, while 37.5 mg of phentermine costs $1.82 (both with a discount).
Interestingly enough, some insurance companies cover the cost of both obesity and mental health treatments.
However, it is not recommended to take both drugs on the same day without a doctor’s prescription, as it carries a risk of side effects.
Additionally, it is worth noting that phentermine has a half-life of 20 hours, while Adderall has a half-life of 34 hours, according to drugs.com.
Can I combine Adderall and Phentermine?
When it comes to combining Adderall and Phentermine, it’s important to seek guidance from a medical professional.
According to drugs.com, there is no reported drug interaction between these two psychostimulant medications.
However, it’s worth noting that taking them together could result in a more pronounced outcome due to their shared side effects.
Additionally, a Quora user reported a positive urinalysis for Adderall after taking Phentermine, suggesting that the two drugs may have a similar structure and could potentially result in overdosing if used together.
Ultimately, consulting with a doctor is the best way to determine whether combining these medications is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

Which is better for energy: phentermine or adderall?
Both phentermine and Adderall work as stimulants to give you more energy, but they do it in different ways.
Phentermine works by making you feel less hungry. This makes you eat less, which gives you more energy.
On the other hand, Adderall increases norepinephrine and dopamine neurotransmitter levels, leading to heightened alertness and energy levels.
Both drugs work, but the way they work for each person may be different depending on what they need.
Summary
Phentermine and Adderall are commonly used for promoting weight loss and improving ADHD, respectively.
While these drugs have shown positive effects, their safety and efficacy studies are limited when it comes to using them for other conditions.
It’s important to remember that Adderall may cause you to lose weight as a side effect, and that phentermine may help your ADHD.
To ensure optimal results, drugs should always be taken according to their intended purpose. It’s crucial to avoid self-medication and trust your doctor’s advice when it comes to using prescription drugs.
With the right guidance, these drugs can provide much-needed relief for those struggling with weight management or ADHD.
I'm Jacob Foxx, a proud native of the outskirts of Chicago, Illinois. I was enamored with the expansive Star Trek universe and its promise of cutting-edge technology and space travel from a young age. This early fascination with science fiction sparked my imagination and laid the foundation for my writing career. Alongside my love for the cosmos, I developed a passion for fitness in my formative years.
This dual interest in the world of tomorrow and the pursuit of physical health has greatly informed my writing, allowing me to explore themes of human potential and the future of our species. As an author, I strive to blend these passions into compelling narratives that inspire readers to dream and to push their own boundaries.