Adderall vs Spravato
A side-by-side look at two mental health medications advertised on TV. Informational only — not medical advice.
| US Adderall | US Spravato | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | amphetamine/dextroamphetamine | esketamine |
| Drug class | CNS Stimulant | NMDA Receptor Antagonist |
| Treats | ADHD, narcolepsy | Treatment-resistant depression |
| Category | Mental Health | Mental Health |
| Manufacturer | Teva | Janssen |
| Year approved | 1996 | 2019 |
| FDA warning | Black box warning | Black box warning |
| Est. TV ad spend | $1M | — |
| Common side effects | High potential for abuse and dependence, Insomnia, Decreased appetite, Increased heart rate | Sedation, Dissociation, Abuse and misuse potential, Increased blood pressure |
Frequently asked questions
Is Adderall or Spravato better?
Neither is universally "better." Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Spravato (esketamine) are both used for mental health, but the right choice depends on your medical history, insurance and your doctor's guidance. This comparison is informational only.
What's the difference between Adderall and Spravato?
Adderall is a CNS Stimulant made by Teva, while Spravato is a NMDA Receptor Antagonist made by Janssen. See the table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
Which one spends more on TV ads?
Adderall has the larger estimated TV advertising budget of the two.