Vyvanse and Adderall are commonly used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. ADHD is a mental health disorder that affects individuals of all ages. Vyvanse is a brand name for the generic drug Lisdexamfetamine, whereas, Adderall is a brand name containing a combination of Dextroamphetamine and amphetamine generic drugs. Both these drugs are classified as central nervous system stimulants, and they work by increasing the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine that help individuals to focus and concentrate. Vyvanse and Adderall work in many similar ways, but both these medicines have some important differences. In this blog, we will discuss a few of these differences between Vyvanse vs Adderall drugs and their dosages and side effects.
What is Vyvanse Drug
Vyvanse is useful in the treatment of ADHD to decrease symptoms like hyperactivity, and impulsiveness and also help to increase attention. It should be used in counseling or behavioral therapies. It contains Lisdexamfetamine drug.
When this drug is consumed, it is transformed into Dextroamphetamine. But, it is possibly addictive and may cause serious side effects in patients.
The Vyvanse medicine is prescribed for ADHD and Binge Eating Disorder (BED) and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on 23 February 2007.
What is Adderall Drug
Adderall contains four types of amphetamine salts which are used to enhance focus, pay attention, and reduce impulsive behavior in children and adults. Adderall drugs can also treat narcolepsy. This medicine is prescribed for treating narcolepsy and ADHD conditions in patients.
It is also available as Adderall XR (extended-release) and Adderall IR (immediate-release) variants of the medication. Adderall XR extended-release drug was approved by the FDA in 2001.
Adderall IR immediate-release is a short-acting variant of the medicine. Taking Adderall drugs may be habit-forming and can cause sleeping disorders.
Differences between Vyvanse and Adderall
Vyvanse and Adderall medicines are FDA-approved for treating ADHD in individuals. These medicines can help improve concentration and attention in patients.
Both these branded medicines contain the same generic amphetamine drug and are central nervous system (CNS) stimulant medications. They can help enhance the function of neurotransmitters in the individual’s brain.
Drug Class
Vyvanse and Adderall belong to the Schedule II Controlled Substance category of pharmaceutical drugs.
Vyvanse and Adderall drugs contain amphetamine that may cause addiction in persons.
If any side effects may occur while taking Vyvanse or Adderall, check with your healthcare provider immediately.
Effectiveness
Adderall starts its effect quickly and starts working in 30 minutes when taken orally. Vyvanse, on the other hand, can take 1 to 2 hours to absorb properly after consuming orally.
Dose
Vyvanse can’t be injected or inhaled, and it is not recommended for children who are under the age of 6 years. Adderall drug is also useful for children who are 3 years old and above.
Both medicines are listed as a psychostimulant. The duration of Adderall is 11–13 hours, on the other hand, the duration of Vyvanse is about 10–12 hours.
Adderall and Vyvanse medicines have their positive results, different dosages, and even a few similar side effects.
Dosage of Vyvanse
The Vyvanse drug is available in different strengths and forms. Its oral capsule dosage strengths are 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg, while the chewable oral tablet’s dosage strengths are 60 mg, 50 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg.
It comes in oral tablet and capsule forms.
Dosage of Adderall
Adderall comes in various dosage strengths such as 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg, and 70 mg. Oral tablets of Adderall are available in the market.
Side Effects
Side Effects of Vyvanse
Here are common side effects of the Vyvanse drug such as:
- Diarrhea
- Pain in stomach
- Problem in sleeping
- The feeling of dryness in the mouth
- Feeling irritated
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Heart problem
- Psychiatric problem
- Movement issue in toes and fingers
- Weight loss
- Chill
- Difficulty in breathing
- Swelling around the eyes
Side Effects of Adderall
Here are several side effects of Adderall such as:
- Pain in bladder
- Dark urine
- Irregular heartbeat
- Pain in lower back
- Shivering
- Muscle pain
- Feeling weak and tired
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Chest pain
- Loosening of the skin
- Swelling on the lower legs
- Itching
- Rash or redness on the face
Conclusion
People who have cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, liver problems, heart disease, and other serious conditions, should not take Vyvanse or Adderall drugs for treatment. Both these medicines are not recommended for women during pregnancy.
Adderall and Vyvanse medications are, technically, a class of controlled substances and should be taken under the guidance of a medical professional.