Learn the Differences Between Adderall vs. Vyvanse
Adderall and Vyvanse are two medications prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but few people really know the differences between them. Did you know you can only take Vyvanse orally? Or, that you can snort Adderall or mix it with water and inject it? Have you heard that Vyvanse is only available as a name-brand drug? But Adderall is available under various brand names like TEVA and Alovegen? These are all things a doctor might not tell someone when prescribing Adderall or Vyvanse.
Many people who use these drugs without a prescription have little knowledge about what they are taking. So, we thought we’d clear up the confusion for good. Here at Zinnia Health, we provide transparent advice to people taking Adderall and Vyvanse. Our team also helps loved ones of those with substance use disorders who might look for additional information.
Adderall vs. Vyvanse: What’s the Difference?
Doctors prescribe both Adderall and Vyvanse to children and adult patients with ADHD. However, Adderall also treats narcolepsy and other sleep disorders. Its stimulant effect keeps those suffering from these conditions awake during the day. Vyvanse, on the other hand, also treats people with binge eating disorders. Its stimulant effect can curb food cravings and prevent someone from overeating.
There are other differences between these drugs:
- Adderall is the name of various branded medications. These medications include TEVA and Alvogen. Few people know the brand of Adderall they are taking. Vyvanse is only available as a brand-name drug.
- You can only take Vyvanse orally. You can also snort Adderall or mix it with water and inject it.
- The FDA approved Adderall in 1996 and Vyvanse in 2007, so Adderall has been around for almost ten years longer than Vyvanse.
- Doctors in the United States write more prescriptions for Adderall than for Vyvanse.
- The effects of Vyvanse last for around 12 to 14 hours. Adderall lasts for around four to six hours.
One of the biggest differences between Adderall and Vyvanse is the composition of these drugs. Adderall combines two stimulants: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine stimulate the central nervous system and influence brain and nerve chemicals responsible for hyperactivity and impulse control. Vyvanse doesn’t contain these stimulants. It’s made from a chemical called lisdexamfetamine dimesylate.
Only doctors can prescribe either Adderall or Vyvanse. Those who use these drugs without a prescription are breaking the law. However, many people become addicted to these medications and seek them out on the black market, posing serious safety risks.
Here at Zinnia Health, we have years of experience in Adderall and Vyvanse recovery. Our treatment plans help those addicted to these drugs and their loved ones.
Adderall vs. Vyvanse Similarities
Adderall and Vyvanse both treat children and adults with ADHD, a common neurodevelopmental disorder. According to the CDC: “Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (may act without thinking about what the result will be), or be overly active.” “ADHD can last into adulthood. Some adults have ADHD but have never been diagnosed.
The symptoms can cause difficulty at work, at home, or with relationships. Symptoms may look different at older ages, for example, hyperactivity may appear as extreme restlessness.” Other similarities include:
- Both drugs have similar levels of dependency. That means someone using one of these medications might develop an addiction with continued use.
- Adderall and Vyvanse have similar side effects. At high doses, both drugs can cause sleep problems and swelling as well as increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Other side effects include high blood pressure and paranoia.
- Both drugs are equally effective in treating ADHD in child and adult patients.
- Someone can buy Adderall or Vyvanse on the black market.
- Both drugs are popular with those who want to lose weight or improve their fitness goals. The stimulant effect of Adderall and Vyvanse can curb food cravings and increase focus and energy in the gym.
How Zinnia Health Helps
Recovering from an Adderall or Vyvanse addiction can be tough. That’s because the substance user might experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking one of these drugs.
Zinnia Health utilizes evidence-based treatment programs focus on recovery, providing substance users with the resources and support they need at a difficult time:
- We provide high-quality care to all patients.
- Our private and intimate environment helps with the recovery process.
- Our high staff-to-patient ratio makes sure substance users get the attention they require.
- We also treat co-occurring disorders that might influence an Adderall or Vyvanse addiction.
- We work with most major healthcare insurers in the U.S.
- You can tailor our treatment plans around your schedule or work commitments. We work with patients who work in a wide range of job industries.
- Zinnia Health can provide you with the support and resources required for a successful recovery outcome in as little as 30 days.
Related reading: Addiction vs. Dependence If you are suffering from Adderall or Vyvanse addiction and want to start a new life of recovery, we can help. Call us at (855) 430-9439 for a 15-minute assessment about Adderall vs. Vyvanse.
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