Vyvanse vs. Strattera

See how Vyvanse and Strattera compare on approved uses, dosing, side effects, and cost.

Key Takeaways

  • Vyvanse is a stimulant approved for both ADHD and binge eating disorder, while Strattera is a non-stimulant approved only for ADHD.

  • Vyvanse can start working within hours, but Strattera often takes several weeks to reach its full effect.

  • Strattera is not a controlled substance, which can matter for people with a history of substance use, while Vyvanse is a Schedule II stimulant with misuse potential.

Vyvanse vs. Strattera Drug Summary

Vyvanse

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a CNS stimulant that acts as an amphetamine prodrug once absorbed in the body. It's FDA-approved for ADHD in patients 6 and older and for moderate to severe binge eating disorder in adults. It's taken once daily as a capsule or chewable tablet.

Strattera

Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant that works by blocking norepinephrine reuptake in the brain. It's FDA-approved only for ADHD in patients 6 and older, with no other approved uses. It's taken once daily, or split into two doses, as an oral capsule.

Vyvanse vs. Strattera Side Effects

Vyvanse

Most common
decreased appetite (up to 27%)
dry mouth (up to 23%)
insomnia (up to 16%)
anxiety (up to 8%)

Strattera

Most common
decreased appetite (up to 25%)
dry mouth (up to 21%)
nausea (up to 26%)
abdominal pain (up to 18%)

Vyvanse vs. Strattera Dosage

Vyvanse

Dosage
Dosage Table
STAGE DOSE WHEN
Starting dose 30 mg once daily Week 1
Maximum dose 70 mg once daily Week 4 onward
Dose changes 4 increases Every week

Strattera

Dosage
Dosage Table
STAGE DOSE WHEN
Starting dose 0.5 mg/kg/day Days 1-3
Maximum dose 100 mg once daily Week 5 onward
Dose changes 4 increases As tolerated

Vyvanse vs. Strattera Indications

Vyvanse

Vyvanse is approved for ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults, and it's the only stimulant specifically approved for moderate to severe binge eating disorder. It is not approved for weight loss, despite its appetite-suppressing effects.

  • ADHD in patients 6 years and older

  • Moderate to severe binge eating disorder in adults

  • Not approved for weight loss or obesity

  • Schedule II controlled substance

Strattera

Strattera is approved only for ADHD in patients 6 years and older, with no other FDA-approved uses. It is sometimes used off-label for other conditions, but that use is not backed by FDA approval.

  • ADHD in patients 6 years and older

  • Not approved for narcolepsy

  • Not approved for depression

  • Not a controlled substance

Vyvanse vs. Strattera Pros and Cons

Vyvanse

Vyvanse has decades of stimulant efficacy data and is the only medication approved for both ADHD and binge eating disorder. As a Schedule II controlled substance, it carries misuse potential and stricter prescribing rules.

Pros

  • Also FDA-approved for binge eating disorder

  • Effects begin within a few hours of the dose

  • Available as a chewable tablet for easier swallowing

  • Long track record of stimulant efficacy data

Cons

  • Schedule II controlled substance with misuse potential

  • Requires monthly in-person prescription refills in many states

  • Can cause insomnia and appetite suppression

  • Carries cardiovascular risk warnings

Strattera

Strattera offers ADHD treatment without stimulant-related abuse concerns, which can make it a fit for people with a history of substance use. It typically takes several weeks to reach its full effect and carries its own set of warnings.

Pros

  • Not a controlled substance, so no misuse potential

  • No stimulant-related refill restrictions

  • May suit people with a history of substance use disorder

  • Lower risk of stimulant-related cardiovascular effects

Cons

  • Boxed warning for suicidal thoughts in children and teens

  • Takes several weeks to reach full effect

  • GI side effects like nausea and vomiting are common

  • Requires monitoring for possible liver injury

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