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Patients diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are often prescribed stimulants that improve their focus and impulse control, decrease hyperactivity, and prevent daytime sleepiness. Naturally, you should not take any prescription drugs without consulting with a licensed healthcare professional first but you can know more about the most widely used stimulants patients with ADHD take these days. What are the key Adderall vs Vyvanse differences? And which medication will be more effective?
In this article, we will talk about Adderall and Vyvanse benefits, explore the Vyvanse vs Adderall duration, and discuss the adverse effects these medications might have on a patient’s health.
Adderall vs Vyvanse Comparison
Adderall is a powerful stimulant which is commonly utilized to target the symptoms of ADHD and narcolepsy that cannot be eliminated with traditional talk therapy. This medication is a great choice for a person who needs help with their cognitive function and attention span and wants to get rid of their risk-taking and reckless behavioral patterns that take a toll on their social and professional life.
Vyvanse is also prescribed to people who struggle to control the symptoms of ADHD without prescription medication. Besides, over the last few years, Vyvanse has been used to help people diagnosed with binge-eating disorder – it is the only drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of this eating disorder.
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Overview of Adderall and Vyvanse
You need to talk about Vyvanse and Adderall dosage with the healthcare specialist who prescribes you either of these medications – there are many factors that will influence how long Adderall or Vyvanse will last in your body which will affect the dosage such as your weight, age, metabolic rate, and presence of co-occurring physical conditions. Usually, the starting dose for Adderall is five mg – take it once or twice every day. Vyvanse, on the other hand, should be taken once a day – a 30 mg tablet or capsule is enough until it is necessary to increase the dosage.
As for the Vyvanse and Adderall cost, the former costs more – a 30-day supply can cost up to $580, which is why many patients opt for generic Adderall since it may cost only up to $120 without insurance. Talk to your healthcare provider about the options you might have, and remember that extended-release versions of the drug can be more expensive.
Key Differences in Composition and Mechanism
| Feature | Adderall | Vyvanse |
| Chemical Structure | It contains dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine – overall, there are four amphetamine salts. | This medication, on the other hand, contains only one active ingredient – lisdexamfetamine dimesylate. |
| Mechanism of Action | Adderall enters the bloodstream directly – there is a faster onset of action compared to alternative medications. | Vyvanse is supposed to be metabolized by red blood cells before the activation begins – it results in a more consistent effect of the drug. |
Effectiveness of Adderall vs Vyvanse
Vyvanse vs Adderall effectiveness is on the same level – around seventy to eighty patients who take these medications respond well to stimulants and manage to control the most acute symptoms of their disorders.
How Each Medication Works
Adderall contains four amphetamine salts that block the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine and force their release from storage sites – as a rule, this medication works rather quickly after it is ingested. Adderall comes in two forms – immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (XR). The former lasts for four to six hours while the latter lasts for ten to twelve hours.
Vyvanse, however, is a “prodrug” – it is inactive once it is taken. The patient’s body needs to metabolize it into dextroamphetamine before it becomes active – this makes Vyvanse’s effect smoother and more consistent. The effects of Vyvanse will last for ten to fourteen hours – the effect is balanced throughout the day.
How They Address ADHD Symptoms
Both Adderall and Vyvanse increase neurotransmitter levels so that the patient’s cognitive function is enhanced, their distractibility is reduced, and their attention span is improved. When your dopamine and norepinephrine are boosted, you are more in control of your emotions and behaviors and can cope with hyperactivity that overwhelms you without medication.
Side Effects of Adderall and Vyvanse
Despite all the advantages stimulant medications offer struggling patients, there are certain complications that may become evident especially if prescription drugs are misused or the person chooses not to follow up with their primary care physician, neurologist, or psychiatrist. Let us take a look at the most common Adderall and Vyvanse side effects:
Common Side Effects
| Feature | Adderall | Vyvanse |
| Intensity | Adderall IR is associated with more intense initial adverse effects. | Vyvanse has a more gradual effect which results in fewer “crashes”. |
| Gastrointestinal Problems | Adderall can also cause nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting. | Decreased appetite and weight loss. |
| Effect on Mood | Adderall causes rapid highs and lows – your mood might fluctuate severely. | Vyvanse results in fewer mood shifts. |
| Effect on Sleep | In addition to insomnia, this medication may lead to an unexpected energy spike. | Reduced sleep quality and daytime fatigue. |
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Long-Term Implications
Long-term side effects of Vyvanse include poor blood circulation, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health disorders that make the person lose their touch with reality or experience intense euphoria and excitement. If the patient is a young child or an adolescent, Vyvanse may slightly affect their growth rate – the effect is usually temporary, and it has little impact on their adult height.
As for Adderall, cardiovascular issues are among the most common adverse effects which is why patients whose family members have struggled with cardiac diseases need to let their psychiatrists know more about their family history. Sleep disturbances and gastrointestinal issues can be a cause for concern as well.
Personalized Support for ADHD Medication Management at Treat Mental Health
Whether you were diagnosed with ADHD and are looking into various treatment options available to patients nowadays or you are navigating life after misusing either Adderall or Vyvanse, lasting and profound recovery is possible no matter how difficult your situation is. Our facility can guide you towards wellness and the future free from the side effects of prescription medication.
Get in touch with Treat Mental Health today – together, we will ensure you embark on a mental health journey that will benefit your mind and your body.
FAQs
What are the key differences in composition and mechanism between Adderall and Vyvanse?
Adderall contains four amphetamine salts while Vyvanse contains only one ingredient, lisdexamfetamine. Adderall acts directly on the nervous system, and Vyvanse needs to be metabolized to become active.
How do Adderall and Vyvanse compare in terms of addressing ADHD symptoms effectively?
Both of these medications are effective – it is up to a patient and their healthcare provider to determine which medication is necessary based on its duration, cost, and side effects.
What are the common side effects associated with Adderall vs Vyvanse, and how do they differ?
Adderall and Vyvanse may decrease your appetite, cause sleep disturbances, and make you suffer from headaches. Adderall is also linked to upset stomach, nervousness, and harsher “crashes”.
How do the benefits of Adderall compare to those of Vyvanse for ADHD treatment?
Both prescription drugs are effective for patients with ADHD but some of them opt for the longer-lasting and smoother effects of Vyvanse while Adderall is the right solution for people who need to feel the effect of the drug quicker.
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What should be considered when comparing the cost of Vyvanse and Adderall, including insurance factors?
While Adderall usually costs less compared to Vyvanse, your ultimate decision should depend on your insurance plan – many insurance providers can offer you great deals especially if you opt for a generic form of the drug.
