However, there are several differences between the two medications. The effects of Vyvanse generally last longer than the effects of Adderall; Vyvanse has a slower absorption rate than Adderall. Adderall also has a higher potential to be misused than Vyvanse. Both drugs work by acting on the central nervous system, which boosts the availability of neurotransmitters in the brain. With increased amounts of dopamine and norepinephrine, it is easier to pay attention and focus. In addition, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior are reduced.
Vyvanse vs. Adderall: Key Facts
Vyvanse and Adderall are two different medications. However, because they are both stimulant medications from the same drug family (amphetamine), they may be confused as being the same medication. Here are some facts about the two drugs to shed light on their similarities and differences.
Adderall
Adderall is a brand name for a drug that contains dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. It is available in two formulas: Adderall IR (immediate-release) and Adderall XR (extended-release). Adderall IR is short-acting. Typically, when a person is prescribed this immediate-release version, they would take it two or three times a day. Adderall XR was approved by the FDA in 2001 and may be prescribed to people 6 years and older. Adderall IR is also approved to treat narcolepsy.
Vyvanse
Vyvanse is a brand name for a drug that contains lisdexamfetamine. When lisdexamfetamine enters the body, it is converted to dextroamphetamine. It is available in one formula that was approved by the FDA in 2007 for people 6 years and older. In addition to treating ADHD, Vyvanse is approved to treat binge eating disorder.
Effectiveness of Vyvanse vs. Adderall
Both Vyvanse and Adderall are effective for treating ADHD. There is little comparative research to suggest that one is better than the other. The two medications do differ in terms of how long they last. This can be a deciding factor for many people and can impact how effective the medication is for controlling symptoms.
The immediate-release form of Adderall lasts for around three to four hours. However, people may be able to take a dose two to three times per day. The extended-release form is taken once per day but lasts for 10 to 12 hours.One dose of Vyvanse can last up to 14 hours, which means that it can often be taken in the morning and last all day.
Some people taking Adderall XR may find that they need to take other medications to help control their symptoms.
Side Effects of Vyvanse vs. Adderall
As Vyvanse and Adderall are both amphetamine-type stimulant medications, the side effects of each drug are similar and include:
Abdominal pain Affect lability Anxiety Appetite loss Diarrhea Dizziness Dry mouth Fever Headache Increased heart rate Insomnia Irritability Jitteriness Nausea Nervousness Sleep problems Vomiting Weight loss
There are some additional side effects that need to be considered. Men might experience erectile dysfunction (ED) when taking an amphetamine. Although you might feel embarrassed to talk about this with a doctor, they will be able to work with you to help resolve this issue.
Precautions
People with certain conditions should not take Vyvanse or Adderall. For example, you should not take either of these medications if you have:
Bipolar disorderCardiovascular diseaseGlaucomaHigh blood pressureHyperthyroidismLiver problems
Adderall and Vyvanse both could be unsafe during pregnancy, and they are not recommended while breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk with your prescribing doctor. Since both medications are amphetamines that can be addicting, you should also not use them if you have a history of substance abuse.
Drug Interactions
There is also a risk of drug interactions that can occur if you combine Adderall or Vyvanse with another substance. Medications that you should avoid while taking these ADHD medications include:
Antacids Antidepressants Antipsychotics Blood pressure medications Cold or allergy medications containing antihistamines or decongestants Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) Opioid pain medications
Other things that can interact with and affect the actions of Vyvanse and Adderall include alcohol, caffeine, and foods or beverages containing ascorbic acid.
Differences of Vyvanse vs. Adderall
While Vyvanse and Adderall share a number of similarities, there are some important differences between the two medications. These differences can play a role in determining which medication is right for you.
Absorption Rate
Perhaps the biggest distinction between Adderall and Vyvanse is that Vyvanse is a prodrug. This means that it needs to be taken orally in order to be metabolized by the body’s enzymes to become effective. The effects of Adderall start to work within 30 minutes. In contrast, Vyvanse takes approximately one to two hours to take effect. Vyvanse is often described as “smoother” than Adderall. One of the reasons for this is that—because it has a slower absorption rate—there is not a “kick” or “jolt” to the system when the medication starts to work.
Medication Rebound
In addition, there is less medication rebound when Vyvanse starts to wear off. Since Adderall is available in both intermediate and extended versions, it allows for great flexibility in how it can be taken. For example, a person might be prescribed Adderall XR to take daily and have Adderall IR to take when a more immediate effect is needed or when it is beneficial to have the medication wear off before bedtime.
Safety
Vyvanse and Adderall are Schedule II drugs, which means there is a potential for abuse and dependency. Both are approved to take orally. Since Vyvanse needs to be converted in the body, it can’t be inhaled or injected as a way to become high, so it is less likely to be misused than Adderall and other stimulant medications. Always store your medications safely and away from other people.
Forms and Dosages
Adderall IR is available in tablets ranging from 5 to 30 milligrams (mg). Adderall XR is available in six different doses ranging from 5mg to 30mg. Vyvanse is available in capsules and chewable tablets of several strengths in doses from 10mg to 70mg. Doctors usually prescribe a lower dose when you first start taking a medication and gradually increase it until they find the right therapeutic dose for you and your symptoms.
Cost
Adderall and Vyvanse are both brand names and a month’s supply without insurance can cost from around $150 to $400 depending on the frequency and dose. Adderall is available in generic versions (called mixed amphetamine salts), which can be considerably cheaper. Some people find that generic versions of Adderall are not as effective for them as the brand version. Vyvanse is not available in generic form. Online pharmacies might advertise generic forms of Vyvanse but take care: Generic Vyvanse has not been approved, giving it the potential to be unsafe.
Which Drug Is Right For You?
If you are wondering which ADHD medication is best for you or your child, talk through the options with your healthcare provider. Finding the optimal medication often involves some back and forth with your doctor as each person responds differently. When you start taking a new medication, monitor how it makes you feel, including side effects. Then inform your prescribing doctor so they can make the necessary adjustments if needed. Some of the key factors that might go into deciding which one is right for you are how long the medication lasts and how much it costs. After trying one medication, you might find that it is not working as well as expected, and you may want to switch. Each person is different, so go off of how you feel and work with your doctor to come up with the right approach.
A Word From Verywell
Because Vyvanse and Adderall are similar medications in many ways, the choice really comes down to what works best for you. Both are effective for managing symptoms of ADHD, but it may take some trial-and-error to find the medication and dose that works best. It is also important to remember that while these are among the most popular options for treating ADHD, they are not the only ones. There are also other options available, which you should discuss with your doctor if you feel like neither Vyvanse nor Adderall is right for your needs.
