If you have a teen with ADHD, you may be aware that there are many different ADHD treatment options. However, it can be difficult to determine what’s best for your family. You may be confused about the differences between medications like Vyvanse vs. Adderall.
Venture Academy can help you, and your teen determine which of these may be the best fit for your child with our teen ADHD treatment program. Our 30-day assessment, intervention, and behaviour treatment programs offer your teen the time and focused energy to assess what they need for success.
Does My Teen Really Need Medication for ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD is a behaviour disorder. It can cause teens and young people to experience excessive fidgeting and physical movement, making it difficult for young individuals to focus on tasks or schoolwork. As teens grow into adulthood with ADHD, they may also experience impulsivity. This can make it challenging to complete tasks in the workplace and make it hard to wait during conversations or in physical queues. If your teen experiences an excess of these types of symptoms, they may need support with more robust ADHD treatment options.
Vyvanse vs. Adderall
Typically, ADHD treatment options may include medication. These may be prescribed by a doctor when ADHD symptoms become difficult to manage. Many individuals with ADHD may never need to be medicated. However, those who do require the assistance of medication for teen ADHD treatment may be prescribed Vyvanse or Adderall.
Vyvanse and Adderall both contain amphetamines that work by blocking the reuptake process of dopamine and norepinephrine, two specific neurotransmitters that can support your impulse control and focus. This can help to ease the negative symptoms of ADHD. The difference between Vyvanse vs. Adderall is that Adderall is a mixture of four types of amphetamines, while Vyvanse is the brand name for one type of amphetamine.
Adderall
This is a stimulant that can help treat ADHD as well as certain sleeping disorders like narcolepsy. Adderall is the brand name for the mixture of these four types of amphetamines: dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate. Adderall is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms. It is often referred to as a “study drug” because it can help to promote intense focus. Unfortunately, this also makes it more susceptible to non-prescription substance abuse.
Vyvanse
Vyvanse has been shown to be effective for both ADHD and eating disorders. Vyvanse is comprised of the amphetamine, Lisdexamfetamine. While it does require contact with red blood cells in the body before it is activated into dextroamphetamine, these deterrent properties do not completely shield it from being abused. Because it is typically prescribed in lower doses, symptoms of ADHD or even withdrawal symptoms from non-medication can cause problems throughout the day. This is why this medication must be used properly.
The similarities between these two medications mean that you may need to work with your child’s doctor to make the best determination for their needs.
Side Effects of ADHD Medications
Some notable side effects have been reported for ADHD medications. While your teen may experience some or all symptoms with the use of Vyvanse vs. Adderall, it is a personalized experience that may require some titration or shifting.
Some of these side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Anxiety
- Weight loss
- Mood swings
- Seizures
If your teen has used Vyvanse or Adderall and experienced some or all of the above symptoms, they may need to speak with a doctor about ways to reduce the side effects of these teen ADHD treatments.
Find Support for Your Teen with ADHD Today at Venture Academy
If your teen is struggling with debilitating symptoms of ADHD, reach out today to get them the help they need. Our experienced professionals can work with you to determine the best teen ADHD treatment options. Call us at 866.762.2211 to learn more about our programs, or consider taking our interactive child behaviour test. Help empower your teen’s journey toward comprehensive health today.
