Choosing a medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can be confusing, especially when so many have similar active ingredients and effects on the brain. Stimulant medications like Vyvanse and Focalin are often prescribed to regulate symptoms of ADHD. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
These medications increase the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which governs certain cognitive functions and reduces ADHD symptoms. Though Focalin and Vyvanse have similar effects on the brain and body, one may work better for you than the other. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this article, we thoroughly compare these medications so you have the information you need to have a knowledgeable discussion with your healthcare provider. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you are struggling with finding the right medication for ADHD, Klarity can help. In just 48 hours, you can connect with a healthcare provider for affordable online ADHD treatment<\/a>. Your provider will develop a unique treatment plan, including prescription medication, to help you find relief from your ADHD symptoms. Schedule an appointment<\/a> today to get started. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
| <\/th> | Focalin<\/th> | Vyvanse<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n | |||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Drug Class<\/strong><\/td>| Schedule II stimulant<\/td> | Schedule II stimulant<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | Brand \/ Generic Status<\/strong><\/td> | Brand name for dexmethylphenidate<\/td> | Brand name (no generic)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | Form(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td> | Immediate-release tablets; Extended-release capsules<\/td> | Capsules and chewable tablets | \n \n \nCapsules should not be crushed or chewed \n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n Standard Dosage<\/strong><\/td> | 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg immediate-release tablets; | \n5 mg to 35 mg extended-release capsules \n<\/td> 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg, and 70 mg capsules OR chewable tablets<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/td> | FDA-approved uses: | \n\u2022 ADHD \n<\/td> FDA-approved uses: | \n\u2022 ADHD \n\u2022 Binge-eating disorder \n \nOff-label uses: \n\u2022 Narcolepsy<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n Cost<\/strong><\/td> | Generic form (dexmethylphenidate): | \n\u2022 $22 for 30, 2.5 mg tablets \n \n\u2022 $766 for 60, 35mg extended-release capsules \n<\/td> Brand-name: | \n\u2022 $400 to $450 for 30 days of 30mg capsules or chewable tablets<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n Side-Effects<\/strong><\/td> | Common side effects: | \n\u2022 Trouble sleeping \n\u2022 Nausea \n\u2022 Stomach pain, headache \n\u2022 Nervousness \n\u2022 Loss of appetite \n\u2022 Weight loss \n\u2022 Dizziness \n \n \nSerious side effects: \n\u2022 Signs of blood flow problems in the fingers or toes \n\u2022 Unusual wounds \nIrregular heartbeat \n\u2022 Behavior changes \n\u2022 Uncontrolled muscle movements \n\u2022 Sudden verbal outbursts \n\u2022 Vision changes \n<\/td> Common side-effects: | \n\u2022 Anxiety \n\u2022 Diarrhea \n\u2022 Dizziness \n\u2022 Dry mouth \nIrritability \n\u2022 Nausea \n\u2022 Trouble sleeping \n\u2022 Vomiting \n\u2022 Weight loss \n\u2022 Upper stomach pain \n \n \nSerious side-effects: \n\u2022 Blurred vision \n\u2022 Irregular or fast heartbeat \n\u2022 Muscle twitching \n\u2022 Uncontrolled movements \n\u2022 Blood flow problems in the fingers and toes \n\u2022 Swelling in the ankles and feet \n\u2022 Rapid and unexplained weight loss \n\u2022 Mood changes, including aggression and depression \n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n Warnings For Use<\/strong><\/td> | \u2022 May be habit-forming | \n\u2022 Effectiveness decreases over time \n\u2022 Interactions with other drugs\u2014consult a doctor before use \n<\/td> Contraindicated for: | \n\u2022 History of substance abuse \n\u2022 Heart abnormalities \n\u2022 Circulation issues \n\u2022 Mental health issues \n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\n What is Vyvanse?<\/h2>\n\n\n\nVyvanse (active ingredient: lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) is a time-released stimulant used to treat ADHD symptoms by targeting neurotransmitters in the brain that control impulsivity, hyperactivity, and focus. It was approved for use by the FDA in 2007 and is considered a Schedule II controlled substance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Forms and Dosages<\/h3>\n\n\n\nVyvanse is a prodrug, meaning it doesn\u2019t activate in the body until the liver processes it. Because it also takes longer to process in the body, Vyvanse has a lower risk of abuse and addiction than ADHD medications like Adderall and Ritalin. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Vyvanse comes in 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg, and a max dosage of 70 mg capsules, and also comes in chewable tablets that follow the same dosage guidelines. This ADHD medication is taken first thing in the morning with or without food. Do not take Vyvanse anytime after 12 PM as it may interfere with your sleep pattern. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Conditions Treated<\/h3>\n\n\n\nVyvanse is FDA-approved to treat ADHD and some sleeping disorders like narcolepsy. It is also approved for use in those with binge eating disorder (BED). Vyvanse can also be prescribed off-label to treat certain conditions such as excessive daytime sleepiness, depression, and schizophrenia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Off-label use means there\u2019s scientific evidence that a drug is effective, but it\u2019s not FDA-approved to treat that condition, which takes a lot of time and resources to receive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\nVyvanse is currently only in branded form and does not offer a generic version. This is one of the costlier ADHD medications on the market, with a one-month supply of 30 mg Vyvanse fetching between $400 and $450 outside of a health insurance plan. Contact your provider’s pharmacy department for more information on pricing under your current health insurance plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Side Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\nMost people taking Vyvanse do not experience side effects due to the more subtle nature of this medication\u2019s delivery system. However, each person is different and side effects can occur when taking Vyvanse. Common side effects include but are not limited to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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