Quick Answer
70 mg of Vyvanse is approximately equivalent to 20-25 mg of Adderall. Vyvanse contains only the active ingredient lisdexamfetamine, while Adderall contains a mix of amphetamine salts. Due to differences in pharmacokinetics between the drugs, the dosing is not directly equivalent milligram-for-milligram. However, 70 mg of Vyvanse generally provides a similar effect as 20-25 mg of Adderall.
Comparing Vyvanse and Adderall
Vyvanse and Adderall are both stimulant medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They have similar mechanisms of action, but there are some key differences between the two drugs:
Active Ingredients
– Vyvanse contains only lisdexamfetamine as the active ingredient. Lisdexamfetamine is a prodrug of dextroamphetamine.
– Adderall contains a mix of four different amphetamine salts: dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate.
Release Mechanism
– Vyvanse relies on enzymatic cleavage to release active dextroamphetamine. It is converted into dextroamphetamine more slowly and smoothly.
– Adderall releases its active ingredients immediately. The different amphetamine salts are designed to provide a blend of fast- and slow-releasing effects.
Duration of Action
– Vyvanse lasts 12-14 hours since it is gradually converted into dextroamphetamine over time.
– Adderall XR capsules last 8-12 hours, while Adderall IR tablets last 4-6 hours.
Approved Uses
– Vyvanse is FDA-approved to treat ADHD and binge eating disorder.
– Adderall can treat ADHD and narcolepsy.
Due to these pharmacological differences, Vyvanse and Adderall are not equipotent or directly interchangeable at the same doses.
Dosing Equivalency Between Vyvanse and Adderall
Although the dosing is not identical, there are some general guidelines for estimating equivalent doses between Vyvanse and Adderall:
Vyvanse 30 mg is approximately equal to Adderall 10 mg
Both of these doses represent a lower starting dose of each medication. Vyvanse 30 mg tends to be similar in efficacy to a lower 10 mg dose of Adderall.
Vyvanse 50 mg is approximately equal to Adderall 15 mg
A moderate Vyvanse dosage often matches a slightly higher Adderall dose. Vyvanse 50 mg provides effects comparable to Adderall 15 mg for many patients.
Vyvanse 70 mg is approximately equal to Adderall 20-25 mg
At higher doses, the equivalency is estimated in ranges rather than a fixed conversion. A high 70 mg dose of Vyvanse generally correlates to 20-25 mg of Adderall in terms of therapeutic benefits.
These dose conversions will vary between individuals based on factors like body weight, individual metabolism and needs, and drug interactions. People may respond differently to each medication. However, the ratios provided can serve as an approximate guide when comparing the dosages.
Converting Doses from Adderall to Vyvanse
Using the equivalencies above, one can roughly convert Adderall dosages to corresponding Vyvanse doses:
Adderall Dose | Equivalent Vyvanse Dose |
---|---|
10 mg Adderall | 30 mg Vyvanse |
15 mg Adderall | 50 mg Vyvanse |
20-25 mg Adderall | 70 mg Vyvanse |
Of course, these are not meant to be precise calculations. Dosing should always be individualized and titrated under medical supervision. This table simply provides estimated references when converting between the two medications.
Factors Affecting Dose Equivalency
Several factors influence how comparable Adderall and Vyvanse doses are for a given person:
Body Weight
Heavier individuals often need higher doses to achieve the same effects. Ideal doses are adjusted for each person’s weight.
Individual Variation
People metabolize and respond to stimulant medications differently based on individual biochemistry and neurochemistry. Equivalent doses can vary among individuals.
Tolerance
With prolonged use, people can develop tolerance to stimulants over time. Higher doses may be needed to maintain efficacy in those with tolerance.
Age
Stimulants are metabolized differently in children, adolescents, and elderly patients. Different dosing is required across age groups.
Co-administered Drugs
Certain drugs can affect the absorption and metabolism of stimulants when taken together, altering ideal dosages. Dose adjustments may be required.
Formulation Differences
As outlined earlier, Adderall IR, Adderall XR, and Vyvanse have different pharmacokinetic profiles that affect their potency.
Given all these variables, dose conversions should be considered rough estimates only. Doctors will fine-tune dosing based on clinical assessments.
Key Takeaways on Dose Equivalency
– Vyvanse contains only lisdexamfetamine, while Adderall contains mixed amphetamine salts.
– Vyvanse 70 mg is approximately equivalent to 20-25 mg Adderall.
– Dose conversions are estimates only and should be adjusted individually.
– Many factors like weight, age, tolerance, and drug interactions influence appropriate dosing.
– Adderall and Vyvanse are not directly interchangeable at the same doses.
– Work closely with your healthcare provider to find the optimal dose of any stimulant medication.
How Doses Are Individualized
Since direct dose conversions do not always correlate well, providers follow some key principles to determine appropriate Vyvanse or Adderall dosing for each patient:
Start low, titrate up
Treatment is initiated at a low dose. The dose is then gradually increased based on efficacy and tolerability.
Assess clinical response
The provider evaluates how symptoms are improving at a given dose and adjusts accordingly.
Monitor side effects
Higher doses increase risk of side effects like sleep disturbances, appetite loss, irritability. The dose is optimized to minimize adverse effects.
Consider drug interactions
Addition of CYP inhibitors like fluoxetine requires lower stimulant doses. Inducers like carbamazepine can necessitate higher doses.
Change formulations if needed
Immediate-release Adderall can be swapped for extended-release preparations if the duration of effect needs adjusting.
Following these principles allows providers to dial in the ideal dose of stimulant tailored to the patient’s needs. While conversion guides can provide starting references, individualized titration produces the best clinical outcomes.
Key Factors in Dosing Vyvanse
Determining the optimal Vyvanse dose requires assessing multiple factors:
Age
Vyvanse dosing must be adjusted for pediatric patients based on body weight. Adult dosing applies for ages 6 and up.
Symptoms
The dose is titrated until it provides robust improvement in ADHD or binge eating symptoms. Higher doses relieve more severe presentations.
Tolerability
Adverse effects like insomnia, headaches, irritability signal the need for dose reduction. Tolerance can facilitate dose escalation if symptoms persist.
Clinical judgment
The provider combines knowledge of the medication, the patient’s history, and clinical standards to guide appropriate dosing.
Patient feedback
The patient reports back on how the medication is performing throughout the day. This input informs dosage adjustments.
Psychotherapy
Adding psychosocial interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy can improve outcomes at lower medication doses.
Weighing all these aspects helps determine the sweet spot where the Vyvanse dosage maximizes benefits while minimizing negative impacts.
How to Take Vyvanse
Vyvanse comes in six capsule strengths: 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg. It is taken orally once daily in the morning. Vyvanse is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence. To use Vyvanse safely and effectively:
– Take it first thing in the morning before eating breakfast.
– Swallow capsules whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or dissolve the capsules.
– Take your daily dose at least 6 to 8 hours before bedtime to avoid sleep disruption.
– Vyvanse can be taken with or without food. Avoid acidic foods and juices, as they can alter absorption.
– Stick closely to the prescribed dosage and schedule. Do not take extra doses or “catch up” doses if a dose is missed.
– Store Vyvanse in a secure, controlled location at room temperature away from excess heat, moisture, and light. Keep it out of reach of children or pets.
– Regular provider visits are key to monitor effectiveness and adjust dosing appropriately over time.
– Discontinue Vyvanse safely under medical supervision due to risk of withdrawal.
Following the prescribing information and dosing instructions carefully will promote safe and effective use of Vyvanse.
Titrating Your Vyvanse Dose
When starting Vyvanse, it is essential to gradually titrate the dosage to identify the optimal amount that provides maximum symptom control with minimal side effects:
– Initiate treatment at 30 mg once daily.
– After one week at 30 mg, increase to 50 mg daily if needed and tolerated.
– From 50 mg, can increase by 10-20 mg increments weekly up to 70 mg maximum daily dose.
– At each dose, assess ADHD symptoms/binge eating episodes for one week.
– Also monitor side effects like decreased appetite, headache, insomnia.
– Stop increasing dose when symptoms are controlled satisfactorily with acceptable side effects.
– If intolerable side effects develop at a given dose, decrease to previous lower dose.
– Once ideal dose is identified, continue taking it regularly as prescribed.
– Periodically re-evaluate need for dose adjustments with your provider.
This stepwise titration schedule allows the optimal Vyvanse dose to be honed in based on your individual needs. Patience is required to find the right regimen.
Starting Vyvanse Treatment
When beginning Vyvanse, proper administration and monitoring are vital:
– Take the first dose on a weekend or non-working day in case of initial side effects.
– Stay well hydrated and eat a healthy meal before the first dose.
– Be alert for new side effects like dry mouth, headache, insomnia in the first few days.
– Monitor blood pressure and heart rate for increases from the stimulant effects.
– Adhere carefully to the prescribed dosing schedule without adjustments at first.
– Keep a log of effects, side effects, sleep quality, appetite to discuss with your provider.
– Schedule follow up within 1 week of starting Vyvanse to assess initial response.
– Work closely with your provider during dose titration until reaching optimal regimen.
– Allow 4-6 weeks for full therapeutic effects to emerge at target dose.
– Add behavioral interventions like CBT for a combined medication/therapy approach.
Closely adhering to prescriber recommendations when beginning Vyvanse leads to the best outcomes long-term.
Maximizing Vyvanse Efficacy
The full benefits of Vyvanse are achieved by:
– Taking Vyvanse consistently: ADHD requires daily treatment, weekends included. Skipping doses reduces effectiveness.
– Identifying optimal dose: Could take weeks to months of dose adjustments to hone in on just the right amount.
– Being patient: The full effects may take 4-6 weeks to emerge at the ideal dosage. Don’t give up too soon.
– Adding therapy: Psychosocial treatment like CBT enhances the effects of stimulant medication.
– Creating structure: External structure from schedules, alarms, calendars complements Vyvanse’s internal focus.
– Getting organized: Vyvanse promotes organization – use checklists, to-do lists, labels to leverage this.
– Eating nutritious meals: Avoid empty calories. Protein enhances bioavailability.
– Exercising: Aerobic activity boosts circulation and augments medication effects.
– Staying hydrated: Drink enough water to prevent dehydration.
– Tracking progress: Use rating scales and trackers to identify ongoing symptom improvements.
With consistent use and supportive self-care strategies, Vyvanse can significantly improve ADHD impairment.
Alternative Medications
If Vyvanse is not well tolerated or effective, alternatives include:
Methylphenidate products
Such as Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate, Daytrana patch. Release methylphenidate instead of amphetamines.
Dextroamphetamine products
Such as Dexedrine, Zenzedi. Provide effects similar to Vyvanse but may have different tolerability.
Mixed amphetamine salts
Such as Adderall. Contains multiple amphetamines with blended pharmacokinetics.
Atomoxetine
Sold as Strattera. Works as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor instead of stimulant. Only non-stimulant ADHD med.
Guanfacine
Sold as Intuniv. Acts as a selective alpha-2A agonist. Can also be used as an adjunct to stimulants.
Discuss alternatives with your provider if Vyvanse is poorly matched to your needs. Other classes of medication may be more appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Vyvanse come in different forms like Adderall XR vs IR?
No, Vyvanse only comes in one standard delayed-release capsule formulation. It does not come in immediate and extended release versions like Adderall.
Can Vyvanse be taken in the afternoon or evening?
Vyvanse should only be taken first thing in the morning. Afternoon or nighttime doses can significantly disrupt sleep due to the long 14 hour duration of action.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Vyvanse?
It is best to avoid alcohol when taking Vyvanse. Both alcohol and Vyvanse may impair judgment. The combination also increases the risk of heart problems and other side effects.
How long does Vyvanse stay in your system after stopping?
Vyvanse has an elimination half-life of about 1 hour. It typically takes 4-5 days for Vyvanse to be completely cleared from your system after stopping.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Vyvanse?
If you miss a Vyvanse dose, you can take it later in the same day as long as it’s at least 6-8 hours before bedtime. Never take extra Vyvanse to make up for a missed dose.
The Bottom Line
While Vyvanse and Adderall doses do not share a direct 1:1 conversion, 70 mg of Vyvanse generally correlates to 20-25 mg of Adderall in terms of therapeutic effects. However, many factors like age, weight, metabolism, and drug interactions can affect individual equivalencies.
It is essential to work closely with your prescriber to identify your optimal dose of Vyvanse or Adderall based on careful clinical evaluation and titration schedule. Finding the “sweet spot” that provides maximum symptom relief with minimal side effects takes time and patience – but the effort pays off in improved daily functioning.