Comparing Dexedrine and Vyvanse: A Look at Their Shared Traits and Distinct Features

Drug Comparison: Dexedrine and Vyvanse - Similarities and Distinctions

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) and Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) are two FDA-approved prescription medications commonly used for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder (BED).

Vyvanse is a prodrug of Dexedrine, which means it is converted into an active form in the body. It works by increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the body. On the other hand, Dexedrine doesn't need to be converted into an active form as it is already an active medication.

For ADHD treatment, Vyvanse is typically prescribed for children over 6 years old and adults, with a recommended daily dosage of 30-70 mg. Dexedrine, however, is prescribed for people over the age of 3, with a recommended daily dosage of 5-30 mg in more than one dose.

Both medications have potential side effects, including anxiety, decreased appetite, weight loss, diarrhea or constipation, dizziness, dry mouth, irritability, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, growth suppression (in children), Raynaud's disease, psychosis, mania, increased blood pressure and heart rate, sudden death (in people with serious heart problems), and misuse potential.

In the treatment of narcolepsy, doctors typically prescribe 5-60 mg of Dexedrine daily. For BED, doctors typically prescribe 50-70 mg of Vyvanse daily.

It's important to note that the dose of either medication prescribed will depend on factors such as age, body weight, and response to treatment. Your doctor may not recommend or prescribe either drug if you have certain health conditions, such as structural heart abnormalities, heart arrhythmias, heart disease, cardiomyopathy, moderate to severe high blood pressure, glaucoma, a history of substance use disorder, hyperthyroidism, hypersensitivity or allergy to amphetamines.

The effects of Vyvanse may last a lot longer, which can be a problem if you have trouble sleeping. Dexedrine, on the other hand, may offer more flexible dosing due to its shorter duration.

Vyvanse is only available under its brand name as chewable tablets or capsules, while Dexedrine is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, oral liquid solution, and a skin patch. The newly-approved Dexedrine skin patch and Vyvanse chewable tablets may be options for people who have trouble swallowing pills.

Additional treatment options for ADHD include behavioral therapies, diet changes, and lifestyle changes. For BED, a combination of medication and psychotherapy is often recommended.

As with any medication, it's crucial to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Vyvanse or Dexedrine.