What does fact checked mean?
At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
Adderall vs. Focus Factor
Amid growing concerns about the long-term effects of prescription psychostimulants such as Adderall, many people have begun looking for safer, more “natural” treatments, such as Focus Factor, to increase focus and concentration.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Composition
Adderall, a prescription drug comprised of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, comes in instant release (IR) and extended release (XR) form.
The makers of Focus Factor claim it is an all-natural dietary supplement containing 40 different ingredients, such as omega-3 fish oil, choline and huperzine A.
Uses
Ritalin and Metabolism
Learn More
Adderall is widely prescribed to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as well as narcolepsy. As a psychostimulant, Adderall works by increasing the level of dopamine and norepineprine in the brain resulting in increased focus and concentration.
Focus Factor is not specifically formulated to treat ADHD or any other disorder, but rather to increase memory.
Efficacy
Clinical studies have shown Adderall to effectively treat ADHD in both children and adults 3. Currently, no reliable evidence or studies back up Focus Factor’s purported benefits.
Cost
Phenylethylamine for Weight Loss
Learn More
The cost of Adderall varies widely based on the dosage and the patient’s health insurance plan.
A bottle of Focus Factor (60 pills) can cost as much as $50 when purchased online or in health food stores.
Side Effects
According to the Mayo Clinic, side effects commonly associated with Adderall include “bladder pain; cloudy or bloody urine; burning or painful urination; fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse; and lower back or side pain.”
Because it is a vitamin supplement, there are no major side effects associated with Focus Factor; however, there is a possibility of harmful drug interactions.
Related Articles
References
- http://www.adultadhd.net/adderall/
- http://www.wellnessletter.com/html/ds/dsFocusFactor.php
- http://stanford.wellsphere.com/add-adhd-article/the-effectiveness-of-adderall-as-an-adhd-medication/578202
- Felt BT, Biermann B, Christner JG, Kochhar P, Harrison RV. Diagnosis and management of ADHD in children. Am Fam Physician. 2014;90(7):456-64.
- National Institute of Mental Health. Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Updated September 2019.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Updated January 29, 2020.
- Wolraich ML, Hagan JF, Allan C, et al. Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents. Pediatrics. 2019;144(4). doi:10.1542/peds.2019-2528
- Bhattarai J, Sumerall S. Current and future treatment options for narcolepsy: a Review. Sleep Sci. 2017;10(1):19-27. doi:10.5935/1984-0063.20170004
- Martinez-Raga J, Knecht C, Szerman N, Martinez MI. Risk of serious cardiovascular problems with medications for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. CNS Drugs. 2013;27(1):15-30. doi:10.1007/s40263-012-0019-9
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Label for Adderall.
- Clavenna A, Bonati M. Pediatric pharmacoepidemiology - safety and effectiveness of medicines for ADHD. Expert Opin Drug Saf. 2017;16(12):1335-1345. doi:10.1080/14740338.2017.1389894
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Information about medications used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Writer Bio
Jack Henry is freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from The Ohio State University. His work has appeared on eHow, Answerbag and Trails Travel. Since joining Demand Studios last year, he has focused on areas such as travel, education, health and science.