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
Strattera
Vyvanse vs. Strattera Dosage
Vyvanse
Strattera
| 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 |
| 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
| 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
| 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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