Compare Vyvanse vs. Strattera

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) and atomoxetine (Strattera) are both used to treat ADHD in adults and children age 6 years and older, but they have some key differences. Vyvanse is a stimulant and a controlled substance, meaning it has a high risk of misuse and dependency. Atomoxetine, on the other hand, is a non-stimulant and not a controlled substance, so it doesn't carry the same risk of addiction. However, it doesn’t improve ADHD symptoms as well as stimulant medications do. Vyvanse can also treat binge eating disorder in adults, while atomoxetine is only approved for ADHD. Vyvanse tends to work faster, often within a couple of hours, whereas atomoxetine may take a few weeks to show full effects. Additionally, Vyvanse is available in both capsule and chewable tablet forms, while atomoxetine is only available as capsules. Common side effects for Vyvanse include difficulty sleeping and loss of appetite, while atomoxetine can cause nausea and dry mouth. Both medications are available as low-cost generics.