From the Guidelines
Solriamfetol and Adderall are similar in that both are central nervous system stimulants used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness and attention disorders, though they work through different mechanisms. Both medications increase wakefulness, improve attention, and enhance cognitive function by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain. Solriamfetol primarily works as a dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, while Adderall contains amphetamine salts that increase the release of these same neurotransmitters 1.
Some key similarities between the two medications include:
- Increased wakefulness and improved attention
- Enhanced cognitive function
- Similar side effects, including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, decreased appetite, and anxiety However, there are important differences to note:
- Adderall is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance with higher abuse potential, while solriamfetol is Schedule IV with lower abuse potential 1
- Adderall is approved for ADHD and narcolepsy, whereas solriamfetol (brand name Sunosi) is specifically approved for excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea
- The medications also differ in dosing regimens and duration of action, with Adderall typically requiring multiple daily doses while solriamfetol is usually taken once daily in the morning
It's worth noting that the American Academy of Sleep Medicine clinical practice guideline recommends the use of solriamfetol for the treatment of narcolepsy in adults, as well as other medications such as modafinil, pitolisant, and sodium oxybate 1. However, when considering the treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness and attention disorders, the choice between solriamfetol and Adderall should be based on individual patient needs and medical history, taking into account the potential benefits and risks of each medication.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Similarities between Solriamfetol and Adderall
- Both solriamfetol and Adderall are used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness, although Adderall is primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Solriamfetol and Adderall have similar mechanisms of action, as they both increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which help regulate sleep and wakefulness 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Both medications have been shown to be effective in reducing excessive daytime sleepiness and improving wakefulness in patients with narcolepsy and obstructive sleep apnea 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Solriamfetol and Adderall have similar side effect profiles, with common adverse events including headache, nausea, decreased appetite, anxiety, and insomnia 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Comparison of Efficacy
- Studies have shown that solriamfetol is effective in reducing excessive daytime sleepiness and improving wakefulness in patients with narcolepsy and obstructive sleep apnea, with significant improvements in mean maintenance of wakefulness test (MWT) sleep latencies and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) scores compared to placebo 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Adderall has also been shown to be effective in reducing excessive daytime sleepiness and improving wakefulness in patients with narcolepsy and ADHD, although the exact mechanisms of action and efficacy may differ from solriamfetol 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Comparison of Safety
- Both solriamfetol and Adderall have been shown to be generally well-tolerated, with common adverse events including headache, nausea, decreased appetite, anxiety, and insomnia 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- However, Adderall has a higher potential for abuse and dependence compared to solriamfetol, and may have more severe side effects in some patients 2, 3, 4, 5, 6