Vyvanse vs Adderall

What is The Difference Between Adderall and Vyvanse?

When comparing Vyvanse vs Adderall, it’s important to understand that both are central nervous system (CNS) stimulants commonly prescribed for ADHD. Adderall is also approved for treating narcolepsy, while Vyvanse has gained specific approval for binge eating disorder in adults. Despite their therapeutic benefits, these medications carry significant addiction risks, particularly when misused.

Adderall combines amphetamine salts (75% dextroamphetamine and 25% levoamphetamine) and is available in both immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (XR) forms. Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a prodrug, delivering 100% dextroamphetamine after being metabolized by the body, providing a gradual release and longer-lasting effects.

FDA-Approved Uses of Adderall and Vyvanse

• Adderall: ADHD (ages 3+), narcolepsy.
• Vyvanse: ADHD (ages 6+), binge eating disorder (adults 18+).

Both medications are classified as Schedule II substances by the DEA, indicating a high potential for abuse and dependency.

Vyvanse vs Adderall – Addiction and Abuse Risks

Both Adderall and Vyvanse carry a significant risk of addiction, particularly when used outside of prescribed guidelines. A 2022 report by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) revealed that 15% of high school seniors misused stimulants like Adderall. Misuse often stems from the misconception that these drugs enhance academic performance or focus. There are also many reports about mixing adderall with weed.

Why Vyvanse Is Considered Less Addictive

Vyvanse’s prodrug mechanism requires it to be metabolized into its active form, resulting in a slower onset of effects. Vyvanse converts from lisdexamfetamine to dextroamphetamine in the body after ingestion, but unlike other stimulant medications, this conversion process happens in an extended period of time through enzymes activity in the bloodstream. It doesn’t happen immediately in the gut. This slowed down process results in a controlled and sustained release of dextroamphetamine, reducing the potential for abuse compared to immediate-release stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin.

However, bypassing Vyvanse’s intended use (e.g., crushing and snorting) can lead to dangerous side effects and addiction.

Dr. Nora Volkow, Director of NIDA, emphasizes: “The misuse of stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse can quickly lead to addiction, especially when taken without medical supervision.”

Is Vyvanse a Stimulant?

Yes, Vyvanse is a stimulant, specifically a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that belongs to the amphetamine class of medications. It is primarily prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge-eating disorder (BED), working by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to improve focus, attention, and impulse control. Unlike immediate-release stimulants, Vyvanse is a prodrug, meaning it remains inactive until the body metabolizes it into dextroamphetamine, which produces its stimulant effects.

Side Effects and Health Risks of Vyvanse vs Adderall

Both Adderall and Vyvanse share similar side effects due to their stimulant properties, including insomnia, paranoia, increased heart rate, and decreased appetite. However, they differ in their risk profiles:

Adderall Side Effects

• Mood swings.
• Restlessness and blurred vision.
• Higher risk of exacerbating psychiatric conditions.

Vyvanse Side Effects

• Irritability and nausea.
• Gradual onset of withdrawal symptoms.
• Less severe psychiatric side effects compared to Adderall.

Serious Risks

Both medications can cause severe side effects, including cardiac events, sudden death, and dependency. The black box warnings on their labels highlight these risks, particularly for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.

Comparison Table: Vyvanse vs Adderall

Adderall vs Vyvanse – Managing Withdrawal Symptoms

Discontinuing stimulant medications such as Adderall or Vyvanse can result in withdrawal symptoms, including profound fatigue, mood instability, and increased appetite. Vyvanse withdrawal tends to be less intense but more prolonged due to its extended-release formulation, which affects how the drug is metabolized in the body. According to Dr. Nora Volkow, Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “Stimulant withdrawal is often characterized by a rebound in fatigue and emotional dysregulation as the brain adjusts to lower dopamine levels”. Given these challenges, medical professionals strongly recommend consulting a healthcare provider before stopping these medications to facilitate a safe and controlled tapering process.

The decision between Adderall and Vyvanse should be based on an individual’s medical history, treatment goals, and response to medication. Vyvanse may have a lower abuse potential due to its prodrug formulation, which requires enzymatic conversion before becoming active, thereby reducing immediate effects. However, Adderall’s rapid onset can be more beneficial for patients requiring immediate symptom relief. Both medications pose substantial risks of dependency, reinforcing the necessity of medical supervision to mitigate potential health complications.