Vyvanse vs Adderall
A side-by-side look at two mental health medications advertised on TV. Informational only — not medical advice.
| US Vyvanse | US Adderall | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | lisdexamfetamine | amphetamine/dextroamphetamine |
| Drug class | CNS Stimulant | CNS Stimulant |
| Treats | ADHD, binge eating disorder | ADHD, narcolepsy |
| Category | Mental Health | Mental Health |
| Manufacturer | Takeda | Teva |
| Year approved | 2007 | 1996 |
| FDA warning | Black box warning | Black box warning |
| Est. TV ad spend | $70M | $1M |
| Common side effects | Decreased appetite, Insomnia, Dry mouth, Increased heart rate | High potential for abuse and dependence, Insomnia, Decreased appetite, Increased heart rate |
Frequently asked questions
Is Vyvanse or Adderall better?
Neither is universally "better." Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) and Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) are both used for mental health, but the right choice depends on your medical history, insurance and your doctor's guidance. This comparison is informational only.
What's the difference between Vyvanse and Adderall?
Vyvanse is a CNS Stimulant made by Takeda, while Adderall is a CNS Stimulant made by Teva. See the table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
Which one spends more on TV ads?
Vyvanse has the larger estimated TV advertising budget of the two.