Many Australians prescribed medication for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often wonder whether Vyvanse and Adderall are the same. While both drugs are stimulants used to treat ADHD and share some similarities, they are distinct medications with important differences in their composition, how they work, duration, and side effects. This blog post explains these differences and similarities to help you understand which medication might be right for you.
What Are Vyvanse and Adderall?
Both Vyvanse and Adderall are central nervous system stimulants prescribed primarily to manage ADHD symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
- Vyvanse’s active ingredient is lisdexamfetamine, which is a prodrug. This means it is inactive until the body metabolizes it into the active compound, dextroamphetamine.
- Adderall contains a mixture of amphetamine salts, specifically amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, which are active immediately upon ingestion.
How Do They Work?
Both medications increase the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control.
- Vyvanse’s prodrug status causes it to have a gradual onset of action, typically taking about an hour to start working, with effects lasting 8 to 14 hours.
- Adderall, especially the immediate-release (IR) form, acts faster, usually within 30 to 60 minutes, but its effects last a shorter time (about 4 to 6 hours for IR and up to 12 hours for extended-release (XR) forms).
Differences in Formulations and Dosage
- Vyvanse is only available as an extended-release capsule or chewable tablet designed for once-daily dosing.
- Adderall comes in both immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules, offering more flexible dosing schedules.
- Typical Vyvanse doses range from 10 mg to 70 mg once daily, while Adderall doses vary from 5 mg to 40 mg taken one or two times daily.
Side Effects and Abuse Potential
Both drugs share similar side effects such as decreased appetite, insomnia, dry mouth, increased heart rate, and anxiety. However:
- Vyvanse’s gradual activation tends to produce less intense peaks and troughs, which can reduce the severity of side effects and lower abuse potential.
- Adderall’s immediate activity can lead to more pronounced highs and lows, increasing the risk of misuse and dependence.
Additional Uses
- Vyvanse is also approved in Australia for moderate to severe binge eating disorder in adults.
- Adderall is sometimes prescribed for narcolepsy in addition to ADHD.
Availability and Cost in Australia
- Vyvanse is widely prescribed and subsidized under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for eligible patients.
- Adderall is less commonly prescribed in Australia and may not be as readily available or subsidized.
Summary
While Vyvanse and Adderall are both effective stimulant medications for ADHD, they are not the same drug. Vyvanse is a prodrug with a slower, smoother onset and longer duration, making it convenient for once-daily use with potentially fewer side effects. Adderall contains active amphetamine salts and offers more dosing flexibility but may have a higher risk of side effects and abuse.
Choosing between Vyvanse and Adderall depends on individual needs, medical history, and lifestyle. Always consult your healthcare provider in Australia to determine the best treatment option for you.