Adderall vs. Vyvanse: Which ADHD Medication Is Best for You?
Vyvanse and Adderall are two of the most frequent stimulant drugs used to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This article compares these therapies based on their efficacy, side effects, potential for misuse, and what doctors should consider when prescribing them.
We at Keystone Counselling Healthcare think that people should be able to make clear and confident decisions about their mental health. This guide explains how these drugs work, how they differ, and what to consider when choosing between them.
Adderall vs. Vyvanse
Both Adderall and Vyvanse are stimulant medications that have been approved for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The three distinct characteristics of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattentiveness define this condition.
Adderall has been available for purchase since 1996 and has been approved for the treatment of both attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. A more recent option,
Vyvanse was granted a license by the FDA in 2007. Additionally, it is utilized in the treatment of binge eating disorders in adults.
Although they perform similar functions, they are constructed differently.
How They Work in the Mind
Amphetamine salts are combined to make Adderall. It works swiftly by raising the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These are two substances that help with focus and self-control. People like it because it works quickly, but it can also wear off swiftly.
Vyvanse is a prodrug, so the body must break it down before it works. It turns into dextroamphetamine after being digested, which releases the drug more slowly and smoothly.
Adderall is like a sprint, and Vyvanse is like a steady stroll.
How long do they stay?
- Adderall IR (immediate release): effective for 4 to 6 hours
- Adderall XR (extended release): lasts up to 12 hours
- Vyvanse: helps with symptoms for 10 to 14 hours
Vyvanse’s slower absorption can imply fewer “ups and downs,” which is easier for many people to deal with throughout a long day at work or school.
Which One Works Better?
Studies show that both drugs work equally well to lessen ADHD symptoms. Some studies show that Vyvanse lasts slightly longer and works more consistently. A meta-analysis from 2024 indicated that Vyvanse lowered symptom scores by 15% more than a placebo. However, it hasn’t been proven that Vyvanse is better than a placebo in a direct comparison.
Ultimately, it’s not so much about which is “better” as it is about which works best for your brain and way of life.
Possible Side Effects and Long-Term Effects
These stimulants, like most medicines, might have adverse effects. Some of the most common ones are
- Can’t sleep
- Don’t want to eat
- Get angry easily
- Have stomach aches
More significant but rare adverse effects might happen, especially with higher doses. These include a faster heart rate, high blood pressure, and even psychotic signs.
A new study indicated that people who took more than 40 mg of Adderall or 100 mg of Vyvanse were 5.3 times more likely to have drug-induced psychosis. However, these risks remain minimal when individuals take their drugs as prescribed and closely monitor them.
Which Is More Likely to Be Misused?
People in college and at work know Adderall as a “study drug.” It may be easier to abuse because it works quickly and comes in a generic form.
Vyvanse is less likely to be abused because it takes longer to work and is designed as a prodrug. Many people don’t utilize it because they can’t snort or inject it.
Around 3.8 million Americans said they misused prescription stimulants in 2022. This shows the need to be careful when prescribing and teaching how to use them.
Advice from mental health professionals for patients
Most doctors say to start with a modest dose and then change it based on how the patient responds. Monitoring your blood pressure and heart rate, monitoring changes in your sleep and appetite, documenting any mood changes or signs of irritation, and attending regular follow-ups to adjust your dosage are crucial.
We also suggest that you review your family’s mental health history and your heart rate before you start taking stimulants at Keystone Counseling.
FAQs
Conclusions
Both Adderall and Vyvanse can significantly improve focus, organization, and daily functioning for those with ADHD. Choosing the right one depends on individual needs, health history, and how your body responds.
At Keystone Counselling Healthcare, we believe in personalized mental health care. If you or a loved one is navigating ADHD treatment options, we’re here to guide you through a safe, evidence-based journey because your mental wellness deserves nothing less.
Contact us now.
