You finally went to the doctor to find out why you were so disorganized lately, and it turns out you have Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Now you are learning about the different treatments and medications, and it can be a bit overwhelming with all the options. 

During your search, you come across two different Adderall formulations: Adderall XR vs IR. So what is the difference between Adderall XR and IR?

Adderall comes in two formulations: extended-release (XR) and immediate-release (IR). This article will discuss the similarities and differences between these two forms of Adderall to help you better understand them. Knowing how each formulation fits into your daily routine, such as work, school, or activities, can help you and your healthcare provider decide which option aligns best with your needs and lifestyle.

ADHD Advisor can help you connect with a licensed provider who can help you find the best ADHD medication for you. But first, let's compare Adderall XR vs IR in more detail so you can learn more about each option.

The Basic Difference: How Each Type Works

Let's take a closer look at what "immediate-release" and "extended-release" actually mean so you can see how Adderall XR vs IR work in the body for ADHD.

What Immediate Release (IR) Means

Immediate-release Adderall starts to work in the body right away. The medication is designed to be released into the body as soon as it is taken.  

So how long Adderall IR last? The IR version of Adderall is an uncoated tablet and breaks down easily in the digestive system, allowing for effects to begin within about 30 minutes to an hour after taking it. The Adderall IR duration typically lasts between 4 and 6 hours.

With immediate-release Adderall, effects come on strong and last a few hours. After that, you may start to feel foggy or experience a rebound effect. A rebound effect occurs when medication wears off, and symptoms return, or you may notice yourself feeling a bit irritable. 

You know how it feels when you first drink a cup of coffee and get an energy boost, only to start to "crash" a couple of hours later when the caffeine wears off. A rebound from Adderall IR is similar to that. Most people take it 2–3 times a day for all-day relief of symptoms. Taking multiple doses or timing your doses appropriately can help you manage these rebound effects.

What Extended Release (XR) Means

Adderall XR's extended-release formula gradually releases the drug throughout the day, allowing for a convenient single daily dose.

The capsule contains two different types of beads. One contains a dose of the medication that is instantly dissolved into the body, allowing for effects to kick in within 30 minutes to an hour. The other type of beads are coated to release the rest of the medication slowly throughout the day. It is comparable to taking Adderall IR twice a day.

How long does Adderall XR last?  The medication usually starts to manage your symptoms in about 45 minutes or so, and the Adderall XR duration lasts between 10 and 12 hours. 

Side Effects: Are They Different Between XR and IR?

Let’s take a look at Adderall XR vs IR side effects. Adderall XR and Adderall IR both contain the same active ingredients, which are a combination of four amphetamine salts:

• Amphetamine sulfate
• Amphetamine aspartate
• Dextroamphetamine saccharate
• Dextroamphetamine sulfate

Common Side Effects You Might Experience with Either Type

Adderall XR and Adderall IR have the same active ingredients, so they share a very similar side effect profile. The main difference is how the medication is formulated and how intense or prolonged the side effects last. Some common side effects that Adderall XR vs IR have in common include:

• Weight loss or reduced appetite
• Dizziness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Dry mouth
• Headaches
• Stomach pain or nausea
• Nervousness
• Increased heart rate
  

These are all common side effects that can occur with either Adderall ER vs Adderall IR, and often do improve over time as your body gets used to the medication. If you have any of these common side effects, you still should let your provider know.

How Side Effects Feel Different with IR vs XR

While Adderall XR and Adderall IR share the same active ingredients, they differ in how side effects are experienced. For example, with Adderall IR, side effects are quicker and may start within as little as 30 minutes to an hour. Side effects with Adderall XR may take over an hour and a half to begin to take effect.

Let's say that a side effect you are experiencing with Adderall IR is that it causes you not to be as hungry as usual. After your first dose wears off around six hours later, you may start to get really hungry again. However, with Adderall XR, you may not feel hungry until the end of the day, around 12 hours later. So you may still experience some appetite suppression with both Adderall formulations, just in different ways.

The release patterns of Adderall XR vs IR can lead to differences in how side effects are experienced. The rapid onset of the Adderall IR formulation can be quick and intense, but it doesn't last as long as the extended-release formulation. Side effects with Adderall XR, because of the delayed mechanism of action, may start slowly and last a little longer, but feel a little bit smoother, too. 

Ultimately, each person is unique and will experience medications and their side effects differently, so it's important to have an open conversation with your healthcare provider to determine which formulation works best for you.

IR vs XR - How to Decide Which is Best for You

Ok, so now which Adderall is better? Whether Adderall XR vs IR will work best for you is a decision you and your provider need to make together. Having said that, there really is not "better" medication for ADHD management; it just comes down to which one will work best for you and your lifestyle and needs. 

We can look at a couple of examples where Adderall XR or IR is a better fit. These scenarios are just examples to consider before you speak with your medical provider.

When IR Might Be a Better Fit

So let's look at when Adderall IR might be a better option. If you run a business or work odd hours, Adderall IR might be the best fit for you. This is because you may need a quicker onset of effects that you can control by taking a couple of different doses per day. 

Adderall IR might be good if you are looking for a medication-free evening and need that additional time to wind down without worrying about insomnia. Or if you are looking to take medication holidays on weekends, immediate-release Adderall may be the better option.

Adderall IR is ideal for those seeking control over their medication timing and dosage based on their symptoms.

If you need to skip a dose occasionally due to your schedule—like when you're going on vacation and need to drive late at night—you can adjust your dosage accordingly. Once you return home, you can revert to your original dosage. 

People who choose Adderall IR over Adderall XR usually do so because they want more control over their doses and symptom management.

When XR Might Be a Better Fit

There are times when you would want to choose Adderall XR over Adderall IR. If you work very long, busy days, you may want something that you only have to take once a day.  Anyone who has trouble remembering to take medication would probably do better to take the Adderall XR once a day.

Some people simply need symptom relief all day long to fit their lifestyles. Some people experience challenging "crashes" when taking Adderall IR and want to transition to something a bit smoother without the peaks and valleys that come with Adderall IR. 

Taking Adderall XR in the morning is convenient and provides consistent symptom relief, which is essential for many people.

Again, everyone is different, and you may want to try both Adderall XR and IR out before you and your healthcare provider decide which one works best, and that's perfectly normal.

Can You Switch Between XR and IR?

So, can you switch between Adderall XR and IR? Yes, you can safely switch between Adderall XR and Adderall IR with the help of a healthcare provider. 

There are many different reasons why you might want to change medications. Perhaps you're changing jobs or making a significant lifestyle change and need a bit more control over when you take your dose. 

Or maybe you're experiencing side effects from Adderall IR that aren't easing up, and you'd like to try Adderall XR to see if they balance out a bit more smoothly. Either way, it is best to remember that finding the right ADHD medication for you can take a bit of trial and error. It's a good idea not to get discouraged; instead, discuss everything you are feeling and experiencing with your doctor, and together, you can find a medication that works best for you! They can also help to straighten out Adderall IR vs XR dosing adjustments safely when you switch medications.

Reasons People Switch from One to the Other

Let's look at some common reasons people may decide to switch from Adderall XR to Adderall IR, or vice versa. For example, assume you've been taking Adderall IR to manage symptoms in the morning only. However, you recently got hired for a new job. You may need to adjust your approach now that you've secured a full-time job that requires more time and some light travel. In this scenario, you may want to try to switch from Adderall IR to XR to get more steady all-day symptom relief.

Another possible scenario would be if you are taking Adderall XR, and it has worked great so far, but you are not feeling hungry around dinner time.  Instead, you are eating late in the evening, which makes you feel bloated at night. You could decide to switch from Adderall XR to IR so that by dinnertime, your medication is starting to wear off. Then, you are hungry enough to eat with the rest of the family, and you no longer eat late at night before bed.

These are just two common examples when someone would want to switch ADHD medications. It is normal for people to switch ADHD medications. Your life is going to go through changes, and you want your ADHD medication to go along for the ride and change with you while experiencing the least disruptions. 

There may be times in your life when you need different symptom relief, and that is absolutely normal. It's so important to stay open and communicate with your provider anytime you want to consider switching medications.

Cost and Insurance: Is One More Affordable?

So, which medication is cheaper? We know that the cost of medication can really be a determining factor. Both Adderall XR and Adderall IR are available in a generic version, and generics are often cheaper than brand-name. 

Most insurance companies will cover generic versions of both Adderall IR and Adderall XR. Most of the time, generic Adderall IR will be more affordable than generic Adderall XR.

Without insurance, the price for both Adderall immediate-release vs extended-release varies. In general, without insurance, generic Adderall XR will run around $200 for a month's supply. Generic Adderall IR may cost between $80 and $150 per month, though prices vary by pharmacy. You can always check sites that offer discounts, like SingleCare and GoodRx.

You should discuss costs and insurance concerns with your provider, and they may be able to point you to the more affordable option and even compare pharmacies near you to find the best price.  

Here at ADHD Advisor, we do not bill insurance companies. We can provide you with a superbill that you may be able to submit for reimbursement, depending on your provider.

Finding the Right ADHD Treatment Approach for You

Ultimately, whether Adderall IR or Adderall XR is the best choice for you will depend on many factors. Your lifestyle, work schedule, possible side effects, and other factors can all come into play as to which one, Adderall XR vs IR, is right for you. 

ADHD medication is a highly personal decision, and you may find that your needs change, and you need to adjust as you progress in your treatment plan. It's all part of the process of trial and error and determining what works best for you. 

Medical providers know this and will help you find the right fit. You just have to be open and discuss everything with them so you can work together to choose the best treatment. ADHD Advisor can help you find the best ADHD treatment for your life.

Medication Is Just One Part of ADHD Management

Effective ADHD management is not just about finding the right medication but also includes therapy, having a supportive social network, coaching, and lifestyle strategies. Finding the right medicine is integral to the overall healing process. ADHD treatment works best when medication and therapy are combined to manage ADHD symptoms.

How ADHD Advisor Can Help You Navigate Your Options

Here at ADHD Advisor, you can start your recovery journey today. We connect you with licensed clinicians via telehealth who can diagnose and treat ADHD in adults. We offer a virtual assessment, diagnosis, and treatment process that includes online medication management, therapy, and follow-up appointments. 

Our clinicians can prescribe and adjust medications as needed. So if you are currently taking Adderall XR or maybe Vyvanse and want to discuss switching to Adderall IR, you can work with one of our licensed clinicians to adjust your medication if they determine that it's a good fit to do so.

Our process is private, convenient, and fits around your lifestyle. We provide ongoing treatment and medication management for ADHD. Monthly follow-up appointments will help you and your provider determine what works and what needs adjusting to create a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle.

To get started, you can take our short online screening test today. After screening, you can expect to have your first appointment within 24 hours in most cases.

Disclaimer: Medication availability varies by state, and there is no guarantee that you will be prescribed any medication. It is solely at the doctor's professional discretion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Adderall XR and Adderall IR?

Adderall XR is extended-release, and Adderall IR is immediate-release. Adderall XR releases medicine into the body slowly throughout the day, while Adderall IR starts working right away and requires multiple doses for all-day symptom relief.

How long does Adderall XR last compared to Adderall IR?

Adderall XR tends to last 10–12 hours, whereas Adderall IR lasts 4–6 hours.

Which is better for ADHD: Adderall XR or Adderall IR?

Both Adderall XR and IR work effectively for ADHD; neither is “better” than the other. It just depends on each individual's preference and lifestyle.

How long does it take for Adderall IR to kick in?

Adderall IR starts to kick in and take effect in about 30 minutes.

What are the side effects of Adderall XR vs Adderall IR?

Both Adderall XR and IR have similar side effects. Common side effects of both Adderall formulations include:

• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Appetite suppression
• Insomnia
• Headache

How many times a day should I take Adderall IR?

Your doctor will determine how many doses you need, but most people typically take Adderall IR 2–3 times per day.

What is the peak effect time for Adderall XR and IR?

Adderall XR takes around an hour to an hour and a half to start working, with peak effects around 7–8 hours after ingestion. Adderall IR tends to start in 30 minutes, with peak effects at 1 to 3 hours after ingestion.

Can you switch from Adderall IR to Adderall XR?

Yes, with your medical professional, you can safely switch from Adderall IR to XR or any other ADHD medication.

Does Adderall XR cause insomnia more than Adderall IR?

Not necessarily; everyone experiences side effects differently. As Adderall IR has more control over when you dose because the effects are shorter, you can reduce your likelihood of experiencing insomnia more than you can with Adderall XR. They both can cause insomnia, but not everyone will experience it.

What is the cost difference between Adderall XR and Adderall IR?

Both Adderall XR and Adderall IR are available in generic versions. Adderall XR typically costs about $50 more than Adderall IR, but prices vary widely across pharmacies.