Millions of people in the United States use prescription stimulant drugs to manage attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Some prescription stimulant drugs have the potential for abuse and addiction.
This article will explore Vyvanse and Adderall. You will learn:
- The effects and risks of Adderall and Vyvanse
- The differences between Adderall and Vyvanse
- How to treat stimulant addiction
- Where to find treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love struggle with stimulant abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Vyvanse?
Vyvanse is a prescription stimulant drug. People may take it to manage the symptoms of ADHD. Vyvanse is a prodrug, meaning it contains an inactive form of its active ingredient, lisdexamfetamine. When metabolized, this ingredient turns into dextroamphetamine, which is a stimulant medication.
Like many other prescription stimulant drugs, Vyvanse has the potential for abuse and addiction. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies Vyvanse as a Schedule II drug. This means that it has a medical purpose and a risk of physical dependence.
People who take ADHD medications like Vyvanse may experience a reduction in their symptoms. However, people may also experience unwanted or dangerous side effects, including:
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Increased heart rate
- Elevated blood pressure
People may experience a “crash” after the initial symptoms of Vyvanse. A “crash” may include:
- Muscle aches
- Depression
- Drowsiness
- Increased appetite
- Lethargy
Unwanted side effects are more common in people who abuse Vyvanse. Vyvanse abuse includes:
- Taking a higher dose than prescribed
- Taking it more frequently than prescribed
- Taking it recreationally (without a prescription)
Abusing Vyvanse can lead to physical dependence and addiction. People who abuse it are also at increased risk of a life-threatening overdose. People who abuse Vyvanse must seek treatment to safely stop taking it.
What is Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription stimulant used in the treatment of ADHD. Doctors may prescribe Adderall to manage ADHD in children and adults. It is available in regular and extended-release capsules. People may also take Adderall to treat binge eating disorder and narcolepsy.
Like other prescription stimulants, Adderall has the potential for abuse and addiction. It can also cause unwanted side effects, including:
- Headache
- Fast heart rate
- Insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Anxiety
- Reduced appetite
- Weight loss
- Mood changes
- Stomach pain
People who take Adderall as prescribed are less likely to develop unwanted side effects or addiction. However, those who abuse it are at risk of these and more severe side effects, including:
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty swallowing
- Seizures
- Delusional thinking
- Chest pain
- Fainting
- Hallucinations
- Verbal or muscular tics
- Numbness in the extremities
- Slowed speech
- Peeling skin or blisters
Adderall is a controlled substance with the potential for addiction. People who abuse it by taking larger doses or using it recreationally (without a prescription) are at risk of developing physical dependence.
It can be challenging to overcome stimulant abuse. Many people require comprehensive treatment programs to stop using them and avoid relapse.
Vyvanse vs Adderall: What is the Difference?
Vyvanse and Adderall have some similarities. First, they are both prescription stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD. Both drugs have generic versions (Adderall’s generic is called mixed amphetamine salts, and Vyvanse’s generic is lisdexamfetamine). Both medications are central nervous system stimulants. Both have the potential for abuse and addiction.
However, there are some important differences between these medications. These include:
- Adderall has been available since 1996. Vyvanse became available in 2007.
- Vyvanse lasts up to 14 hours. Immediate-release Adderall lasts up to 6 hours, and the extended-release form may last up to 12 hours.
- Adderall is approved for use in children six and older. Vyvanse is only approved for people 18 and older.
It is critical to work with a licensed medical provider to find the medications that work best for you.
Treatment for Stimulant Addiction
People who abuse stimulant drugs may become addicted to them. It can be very challenging to overcome stimulant addiction. Many people require intensive, comprehensive treatment to stop taking these drugs.
Treatment for stimulant addiction may include:
- Assessments and screenings
- Medical detox programs (supervision, medications to manage withdrawal symptoms, emotional support, holistic treatments, and other therapies)
- Mental health care
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual therapy
- Group counseling
- Family education and therapy
- Relapse prevention education
- Holistic therapies, such as mindfulness, creative expression, exercise, acupuncture, and more
- Aftercare planning and support
Holistic substance abuse treatment programs are available in several levels of care, including both inpatient and outpatient options. Finding the right level of support to meet your unique needs is critical. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to determine which level of care is best for you.
Find Treatment Now
If you or a loved one struggles with stimulant abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find holistic treatment and support programs at Archstone Behavioral Health. Contact our treatment specialists to learn about our programs or schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate (Vyvanse), A Prodrug Stimulant for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
- Journal of Eating Disorders: Understanding the neural mechanisms of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) pharmacotherapy in Binge Eating Disorder (BED): a study protocol
- Science Direct: Evidence-based pharmacological treatment options for ADHD in children and adolescents
- NIH: Neurocognitive, Autonomic, and Mood Effects of Adderall: A Pilot Study of Healthy College Students
