Key takeaways
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) and guanfacine ER (Intuniv) are both used to treat ADHD, but they have some key differences. Vyvanse is a stimulant used to treat ADHD in adults and children 6 years and older, but can also treat binge eating disorder in adults. Vyvanse works quickly, often within a couple of hours, but can cause side effects like difficulty sleeping and loss of appetite. It’s also a controlled substance, which means it has a high risk of misuse and dependency. On the other hand, guanfacine ER is a non-stimulant and not a controlled substance, making it a safer option for those concerned about dependency. Additionally, guanfacine ER is only approved for children and adolescents and can take several weeks to start working. Common side effects of guanfacine ER include sleepiness and tiredness. Both medications are taken once a day and available as a lower-cost generics.
