There are a lot of debates about Adderall Vs Vyvanse, but what makes them different? Both are drugs that are used to treat health problems such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. They also have similar side effects. But here are the differences between them.
Adderall vs Vyvanse Main Difference
Both Adderall and Vyvanse are amphetamines. They can increase the level of neurotransmitters in the brain. A neurotransmitter is a chemical messenger that carries signals between nerve cells or neurons as well as target cells in the human body.
Adderall and Vyvanse are used to treat ADHD because they boost levels of neurotransmitters known as dopamine and norepinephrine. The former affects memory formation and addictive behaviors, while the latter affects attentiveness.
However, Adderall XR is used only for ADHD. Other than ADHD, Vyvanse is also prescribed for patients with moderate to severe cases of binge eating disorder.
The main difference between Adderall vs Vyvanse lies in the composition. Adderall contains amphetamine salts, namely amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. On the other hand, Vyvanse contains lisdexamfetamine. The body will convert this substance to dextroamphetamine.
Adderall vs Vyvanse Dosage
Adderall and Vyvanse also differ in terms of dosage taken. Generally, because they are amphetamines, they are to be taken in the morning. Since they are stimulants, taking them in the evening might cause an inability to sleep.
Adderall
Generally, Adderall is taken once or twice every day. Each dose must be separated by at least 4 to 6 hours. The recommended dose is usually between 5 to 40 mg daily, though individual dosages vary depending on the patient’s age and the severity of the condition Adderall is used to treat. It can be any amount between 2.5 to 60 mg per day.
Vyvanse
For ADHD, the recommended starting dose is 30 mg for adults and between 20 to 30 mg for children between 6 to 12 years of age. Considering the patient’s condition, doctors may increase the doses of 10 to 20 mg per day weekly. The maximum allowed dose of Vyvanse is 70 mg per day.
On the other hand, adult binge eating patients start at 30 mg daily. This will be gradually increased by 20 mg at weekly intervals until the patient reaches the recommended daily dose. The recommended dose is between 50 to 70 mg per day, depending on the patient’s age and condition.
Adderall vs Vyvanse Weight Loss
Amphetamines can cause weight loss as a side effect. This is because they release chemical messengers that can increase energy and decrease appetite. Adderall and Vyvanse might be abused to lose weight. Both have similar weight loss effects. However, Adderall may cause rebound hunger after its effects disappear, and your appetite will quickly return.
Neither medication is approved to be used for weight loss, although Vyvanse can be prescribed for binge eating disorder. Amphetamines are ineffective and not suitable for weight loss. Not only that, but there may also be other side effects.
Adderall vs Vyvanse Side Effects
Both medications have similar side effects. They may cause palpitations, nervousness, dizziness, appetite suppressing weight loss, insomnia, pria**pism, and even sudden death. Patients may also experience psychiatric symptoms such as depression, hallucinations, manic episodes, or aggressive behavior.
Whether Adderall vs Vyvanse, the two are often abused and cause dependence. Stopping amphetamines suddenly may result in a withdrawal syndrome that leads to exhaustion and depression. A patient who has to stop using either drug must reduce the dose slowly.
That concludes the differences between the two amphetamines. Before you take a medication, make sure that you understand the difference between Adderall vs Vyvanse.
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Thank you very much for reading Adderall Vs Vyvanse: Key Differences, hopefully useful.
