Vyvanse vs. Adderall: Differences & Similarities

Choosing the right medication to manage ADHD can feel overwhelming. Two of the most commonly prescribed options, Vyvanse and Adderall, are stimulants that affect brain chemicals to improve attention, focus, and impulse control. While both medications can be effective, they have differences in how they work, their side effects, and how they feel when taken.

Understanding the difference between Vyvanse and Adderall can help you or a loved one make an informed decision about ADHD medications. This guide to Vyvanse vs Adderall explores their benefits, risks, and what to consider when discussing treatment options with a healthcare provider.

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is a prescription medication made up of two active ingredients: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. These are CNS (central nervous system) stimulants that help improve focus, attention, and impulse control. Adderall is commonly prescribed for individuals with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). It may also be indicated to manage narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that triggers excessive daytime sleepiness [1].

The medication works by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine.  These chemical messengers help regulate attention and behavior. By boosting their activity, Adderall helps people stay focused, organized, and less distracted.

Adderall comes in two main forms: Adderall IR (an immediate-release tablet) and Adderall XR (an extended-release capsule). IR works quickly and lasts for 4 to 6 hours, while XR provides effects for up to 12 hours due to its extended-release mechanism.

Since Adderall is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, it has a high potential for misuse and dependence [2]. Anyone prescribed Adderall should take the medication exactly as prescribed to mitigate these risks.

How Does It Feel to Take Adderall?

For someone with ADHD, taking Adderall can feel like finally having a clear head. Tasks that used to feel scattered or overwhelming may seem more manageable. Many people report being able to focus better, think more clearly, and stay on track without being distracted.

That said, how Adderall feels can vary from person to person. Some describe it as having a sense of calm or being able to sit still for longer periods, while others might notice increased motivation or productivity. While the medication can help reduce symptoms, people still need to use strategies like time management and organization to see the best results.

For individuals without ADHD who misuse Adderall, the effects can feel very different. Instead of creating a calming effect, it might cause feelings of euphoria or excessive energy. This is one reason why the medication has a risk of being misused.

Adderall may also have side effects, such as:

• Dry mouth
• Insomnia
• Appetite loss
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Increased heart rate

These side effects are usually mild and subside over time. If side effects persist or worsen, consult a doctor.

The experience of taking Adderall also depends on the formulation. The extended-release version provides a smoother, longer-lasting effect, while the immediate-release form can cause a more pronounced kick-in feeling that fades quickly.

What Is Vyvanse?

Vyvanse is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient lisdexamfetamine. [3] It is a CNS stimulant often used to treat ADHD. Vyvanse helps manage symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity by increasing levels of brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine.

As a prodrug, Vyvanse doesn’t become active until the body metabolizes it. After taking Vyvanse, the liver converts lisdexamfetamine into dextroamphetamine, a substance that works in the brain to improve focus and reduce ADHD symptoms. This slower activation process helps create a smoother release of the medication throughout the day and lowers the potential for misuse.

Vyvanse is approved for individuals aged 6+ to treat ADHD, and it is also FDA-approved for treating binge eating disorders in adults. [4] It is available as capsules or chewable tablets, making it a flexible option for those who have difficulty swallowing pills.

The effects of Vyvanse usually last 10 to 14 hours, making it a long-acting medication. Many people find this daily dosing fits well into their routine and provides all-day symptom control. Like other stimulants, Vyvanse is a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it has a high potential for misuse and should be used only as directed by a healthcare provider.

How Does It Feel to Take Vyvanse?

Individuals with ADHD taking Vyvanse feel calmer and experience more mental clarity. Many people describe being able to focus on tasks without feeling as distracted or overwhelmed. If often makes it easier to organize thoughts and follow through on responsibilities at home, work, or school.

Unlike some other stimulants, Vyvanse has a smooth onset and delivers its effects gradually, minimizing the jarring kick-in and crash cycle that occurs with some other ADHD medications.

Like Adderall, Vyvanse can also have side effects. Common side effects include:

• Reduced appetite
• Trouble sleeping
• Mild irritability
• Nausea
• Jitteriness

These symptoms normally fade as the body adjusts to the medication.

People with ADHD report that Vyvanse helps them feel more in control of their actions. Rather than being overwhelmed by impulses or distractions, they can focus their energy more effectively. Vyvanse, like other ADHD medications, works best when combined with therapy or behavioral techniques.

For those misusing Vyvanse, the effects can be different. Instead of helping with focus, it may trigger euphoria or increased energy, potentially leading to unsafe behaviors. Like all Schedule II drugs, Vyvanse should be used only as prescribed.

What is 40 mg of Vyvanse equal to in Adderall?

When comparing Adderall vs Vyvanse, they are both stimulants, but they differ in how they work and are dosed. While exact comparisons vary depending on individual response, 40mg of Vyvanse is considered equivalent to 12 to 15mg of Adderall.

The difference lies in their formulations. Vyvanse is a prodrug that provides a slower, more consistent release of medication, while Adderall acts more quickly and abruptly. This means that while their effects are broadly similar, Vyvanse may feel milder and longer-lasting than an equivalent dose of Adderall.

Doctors carefully evaluate these differences when switching between medications, ensuring the dose is adjusted to provide the desired symptoms relief while minimizing side effects.

Differences Between Adderall and Vyvanse

While both medications treat ADHD effectively, they differ in key areas: 

• Formulation: Adderall is a combination of amphetamine salts, while Vyvanse is lisdexamfetamine, a prodrug that activates in the body.
• Onset: Adderall acts faster, especially in its immediate-release form, while Vyvanse offers a slower onset.
• Duration: Vyvanse lasts longer (up to 14 hours), while Adderall’s effects usually last 4 to 6 hours (IR) or 10 to 12 hours (XR).
• Misuse potential: Vyvanse’s prodrug design makes it harder to misuse, as it cannot be snorted or injected for instant effects.

Differences in Side Effects

Vyvanse and Adderall share similar side effects, such as:

• Dry mouth
• Appetite suppression
• Trouble sleeping
• Increased heart rate
• Irritability
• Anxiety

Due to its gradual activation, those using Vyvanse typically encounter fewer spikes in side effects like mood swings or jitteriness. The immediate-release form of Adderall, by contrast, can produce more noticeable highs and lows during the day.

Both medications carry risks of more severe side effects, such as increased blood pressure or rare cardiovascular events, and should be used under close medical supervision.

Differences in Benefits

Adderall’s faster onset and availability in immediate-release and extended release forms provides flexibility for those who need short-term or variable symptoms control.

Vyvanse, with its longer-lasting effects and smoother release, is ideal for those seeking consistent all-day management of ADHD symptoms without the need for multiple doses. Its lower misuse potential can also make it a safer option for individuals at risk of dependence.

Differences in Risks

Both medications carry risks, including dependence, cardiovascular complications, and potential mental health changes like depression or anxiety. That said, the design of Vyvanse lowers its misuse potential.

For individuals with a history of substance misuse, Vyvanse may be the safer choice. Both drugs require careful monitoring to manage risks and ensure safe use.

Vyvanse vs Adderall Mood

Both medications can positively impact mood by improving focus and reducing frustration. However, Adderall’s rapid onset may lead to more abrupt mood changes or crashes as it wears off. Vyvanse’s steady release often provides more stable mood regulation throughout the day.

Adderall or Vyvanse—Is Vyvanse Better Than Adderall?

Determining whether Vyvanse or Adderall is better depends largely on individual needs and response to the medication. The gradual onset and longer duration of Vyvanse make it an excellent choice for anyone who prefers steady, all-day symptoms control without the peaks and valets that can come with other stimulants. Children attending school or adults with a long workday may benefit from the consistent effects of Vyvanse.

Adderall is a flexible drug that also offers advantages in some situations. With both immediate-release and extended-release options, Adderall can be tailored to those who only need coverage during specific parts of the day. someone with an irregular schedule or short-term tasks may find Adderall a better fit.

When choosing between Adderall XR vs Vyvanse or Vyvanse vs Adderall XR vs IR, what works best for one person might not work for another. The decision often involves trial and error under a doctor’s guidance. Variables like convenience, lifestyle, and side effects can also influence determining which medication is better suited for managing ADHD.

Is Vyvanse Safer Than Adderall?

Vyvanse is often considered safer in certain contexts due to its prodrug design. Vyvanse is less likely to be abused because of its prodrug design—it needs to be metabolized to become active. This reduces the likelihood of someone snorting or injecting the medication, making it a preferred choice for individuals at risk of stimulant misuse.

That said, both Vyvanse and Adderall carry similar risks, including:

• Increased heart rate
• Elevated blood pressure
• Dependence
• Cardiovascular complications
• Anxiety
• Mood swings

Careful monitoring by a healthcare provider and regular check-ins can help identify emerging side effects or signs of dependence, enabling doctors to adjust the treatment plan.

Is Adderall Stronger Than Vyvanse?

Adderall may feel stronger for some people due to its quicker onset of action, especially in the immediate-release form. This rapid effect can deliver pronounced symptom relief in 30 to 60 minutes, making it ideal for individuals who need quick results. However, this quick action can lead to more jagged highs and lows, which some people find disruptive or overwhelming.

The slower activation of Vyvanse offers a different kind of strength. Its steady release provides a consistent level of symptom control, which can feel more balanced and sustainable for people seeking long-term focus and emotional regulation. Instead of an immediate surge, those taking Vyvanse may experience a smoother and more gradual improvement in ADHJD symptoms that lasts throughout the day.

In terms of effectiveness, neither drug is inherently stronger. Their differences lie in how they deliver their effects. For individuals who value rapid symptom relief, Adderall might feel stronger, while those who prefer stability may find Vyvanse’s strength lies in its consistency.

How To Decide Which One Is Better for ADHD

Choosing between Vyvanse vs Adderall involves considering factors like: 

• Desired duration of symptom control
• Potential for side effects
• Risk of misuse
• Lifestyle
• Daily schedule

Working closely with a doctor ensures the best choice based on individual needs and responses.

Similarities of Vyvanse and Adderall

Vyvanse and Adderall share many similarities, including: 

• Both are stimulants that increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels.
• Both are effective first-line treatments for ADHD.
• Both have similar side effects and carry a risk of dependence

How To Know if Your Adderall or Vyvanse Is Working

Signs that your medication is working include:

• Improved focus and attention
• Reduced impulsivity
• Better emotional regulation 

If you find tasks easier and feel more in control of your actions, the medication is likely effective. Regular follow-ups with your doctors ensure that your dosage and medication choice remain optimal.

Get Treated in a Luxurious, Science-Backed Addiction Treatment Program at Renaissance Recovery

If you or someone you care about needs help addressing stimulant addiction, reach out to Renaissance Recovery. We treat addictions and mental health conditions in an outpatient setting at our luxury rehabs in California and Florida.

When you choose outpatient therapy at Renaissance, you can engage with structured and personalized treatment while living at home and continuing at work or school. Every addiction is different, so expect a targeted treatment plan that may include:

• Medication management
• Motivational therapy
• Talk therapies like CBT and DBT
• Holistic interventions
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Aftercare

When you’re ready to address addiction or mental health issues, call 866-330-9449.

Sources

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556103/

[2] https://www.vmi.edu/media/content-assets/documents/police/Prescription-Drug-Abuse.pdf

[3] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2007/021977lbl.pdf

[4] https://www.ahdbonline.com/issues/2016/march-2016-vol-9-seventh-annual-payers-guide/2149-vyvanse-lisdexamfetamine-dimesylate-first-fda-approved-drug-for-the-treatment-of-adults-with-binge-eating-disorder-may