Vyvanse Vs. Desoxyn | What ADHD Medication Is Better?

Vyvanse and Desoxyn are both brand name stimulant medications that can be prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Vyvanse Vs. Desoxyn | What ADHD Medication Is Better?

Vyvanse and Desoxyn are both brand name stimulant medications that can be prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They are both classified as amphetamines, and both are controlled substances with potential for drug abuse.

The main ingredient in Vyvanse is lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, while the main ingredient in Desoxyn is methamphetamine hydrochloride. Vyvanse can also be used to treat binge eating disorders, while Desoxyn can treat obesity after other weight loss options have been exhausted.

Vyvanse and Desoxyn may have similar side effects, including a loss of appetite, high blood pressure, and heart problems. Both can be dangerous when mixed with certain antidepressants or alcohol.

Similarities Between Vyvanse & Desoxyn

Vyvanse and Desoxyn are both classified as amphetamines. They both stimulate the central nervous system by increasing norepinephrine and dopamine levels.

ADHD & Other Uses

Like Adderall, Vyvanse and Desoxyn are both approved ADHD medications. They can reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity, improve attention, and help patients with a wide range of ADHD symptoms. Both amphetamines can also be used off-label to treat narcolepsy.

Both Vyvanse and Desoxyn can be prescribed for adolescent and adult ADHD patients. Healthcare professionals may not recommend either drug for use in children 6 years or younger.

Side Effects Of Vyvanse & Desoxyn

Vyvanse and Desoxyn share many common side effects, including:

  • headache
  • trouble sleeping
  • increased blood pressure
  • loss of appetite
  • dry mouth

Vyvanse and Desoxyn can both have harmful drug interactions with other substances. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), seizure medications, and blood thinners can be dangerous when mixed with these amphetamines.

Both Vyvanse and Desoxyn can cause serious side effects, including serotonin syndrome, drug addiction, psychosis, and substance use disorders. People with a history of drug abuse, patients with bipolar disorder, or patients receiving high doses may benefit from close monitoring.

Differences Between Vyvanse & Desoxyn

The main ingredient in Vyvanse is lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, while the main ingredient in Desoxyn is methamphetamine. These amphetamines have differences in their structure and metabolism in the body.

Formulations

Vyvanse is available in extended-release formulations, where the drug is metabolized into dextroamphetamine over time. Desoxyn is an immediate-release formulation that takes effect quickly.

Uses

Although Vyvanse and Deoxyn share some approved medical uses, prescribing may occur for different reasons. For example, Vyvanse may be prescribed to treat binge eating disorder and Desoxyn can be prescribed to treat obesity in some cases.

Unique Side Effects

Side effects unique to Vyvanse include stomach pain, excessive sweating, increased heart rate, and irritability. Side effects unique to Desoxyn include sudden changes to libido.

Treatment For Amphetamine Abuse

Vyvanse and Desoxyn have different main ingredients and slightly different usages. However, both amphetamines have a high potential for substance abuse. Vyvanse and Desoxyn can be abused for their stimulant effects even at low doses.

Abusing amphetamines can cause long-term damage to your physical and mental health. However, it can be difficult to quit without professional help.

To learn about our outpatient addiction treatment options, please contact us today.

Written by
Northeast Addition Editorial Team

Published on

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This page does not provide medical advice.

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