Adderall vs. Vyvanse Similarities and Differences: Choose What’s Right For You

Living With ADHD: Signs and Symptoms

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a disruptive mental health disorder commonly diagnosed in childhood but is still prevalent in adults. ADHD interferes with routine functioning and can impact development. Someone with ADHD may present symptoms including:[2]

• Inattentive: They may be easily distracted, struggle to follow through, start tasks they can’t finish, or have trouble managing time. This can result in unfinished projects, forgetting things, missing deadlines, mistakes, and being easily sidetracked.
• Hyperactive: They may feel chronically restless and unable to stay still, constantly fidgeting. Many also struggle with antisocial behavior and difficulty maintaining relationships.
• Impulsivity and Poor Self-Control: Individuals may struggle with delayed gratification, frequently make impulsive decisions, and have difficulty with active listening, often interrupting others during conversations.

Who is more at risk for ADHD?

There is no definitive cause of ADHD, but medical and mental health professionals consider the following components to influence ADHD:[3]

• Genetics
• Environmental factors
• Brain injuries
• Nutrition
• Social environments

If you believe you or a loved one may have ADHD, consult a healthcare professional. They will assess your symptoms and determine the best course of action for treatment.

Why Stimulants Are Used To Treat ADHD

Why Stimulants Are Used To Treat ADHD: Stimulants, such as the active ingredients in Adderall and Vyvanse, stimulate the central nervous system, increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine.[4] This action helps to improve focus, attention, and control over impulsivity and hyperactivity in individuals with ADHD.  Those with ADHD struggle to stay focused and motivated, making stimulants the first-line treatment for this disorder.

A Comparison of Adderall and Vyvanse

Choosing the right medication is a decision that should be made with your doctor and will depend on your individual needs.

Similarities of Adderall vs Vyvanse

• Mechanism of Action (How it works in the brain and body): Stimulant medications like Adderall and Vyvanse increase the availability of neurotransmitters, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. This action enhances focus, motivation, and wakefulness in individuals with ADHD. [5]
• Amphetamine Ingredients: Both of these two medications have a similar formula, both containing amphetamines. Adderall contains two active ingredients, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, whereas Vyvanse contains one primary amphetamine ingredient, lisadexamfetamine.[6][7]
• Side effects: Adderall and Vyvanse are associated with many of the same side effects, including heart issues, circulation problems, weight loss, sleep issues, rapid heart rate, and more.
• Abuse potential: As Schedule II controlled substances, both Adderall and Vyvanse carry a significant risk of misuse and dependence. Adderall, in particular, has been noted for its high abuse potential among school-aged teenagers in the United States. [8]
• Risks and Warnings: Both substances carry health warnings regarding cardiac issues, pregnancy concerns, high blood pressure, serotonin syndrome, stroke, and more.

Differences of Adderall vs Vyvanse

• Usage: While both Adderall and Vyvanse are prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Adderall is also used to treat narcolepsy.[9] Vyvanse is also prescribed to treat adults with moderate to severe binge eating disorder.[10]
• Patient Age: Adderall is prescribed for children as young as 3, but Vyvanse is only suitable for children 6 and older.
• Formulation: Adderall is available in immediate and extended-release prescriptions, but Vyvanse is only prescribed as an extended-release formula.
• Administration: Vyvanse is available as a capsule that can be mixed with liquid and a chewable tablet.[11] Prescription Adderall is a tablet that must be swallowed and never crushed or chewed.[12]
• Dosage: Vyvnase prescriptions will vary at the discretion of your physician and based on your need. The typical adult dosage for Adderall for ADHD is 5 or 10 mg per day.[13]

Adderall vs. Vyvanse Effectiveness

Individual responses to medication can vary, but research supports the effectiveness of both Adderall and Vyvanse in treating ADHD. Standard and extended-release formulations of Adderall have been shown to reduce symptoms such as inattention and hyperactivity. It reduced the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and aggression across the board. [14] However, concerns remain for any patient regarding the high potential for misuse, especially with long-term use.

This is where Vyvanse may be a more suitable alternative when compared to other extended-release stimulants for ADHD (like Adderall). Vyvanse is effective in doses of 30 to 70 mg per day and may have a lower potential for abuse.[15] This shows promise in reducing the risk of abuse.

Both medications are approved as a first-line treatment for ADHD, indicating they offer significant symptom management and relief. Choosing the right medication for you will depend on several biological and medical history factors, including a history of substance misuse or other mental health concerns.

Adderall vs. Vyvanse: Is one stronger than the other?

The exact Vyvanse dosage will vary from patient to patient, so a direct potency comparison is difficult to determine. Adderall is available in an immediate-release formula, while Vyvanse acts as an extended-release only. This could influence the perception that Vyvanse is stronger than Adderall.

Help For Substance Use or Co-Occurring Disorders

Living with ADHD presents several challenges to productivity, function, and quality of life. When paired with a substance use disorder, these concerns can escalate into something more debilitating.

We’re here to help. Reach out for support and direction. Let’s reset your path in life and build a bridge to a safer, happier tomorrow.