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Key takeaways
Focalin and Vyvanse are FDA-approved stimulant drugs prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Both drugs are effective treatment options for ADHD. However, some research shows Focalin is more effective for children and adolescents, and Vyvanse is better for treating adults.
Many insurance and Medicare plans cover generic Focalin. However, generic and brand-name Vyvanse may not be covered. A SingleCare coupon can help lower the cost of a Focalin or Vyvanse prescription.
Because Focalin and Vyvanse are stimulant drugs, they have some overlapping side effects. They also interact with some of the same drugs.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral condition characterized by inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. It occurs most often in children, and there have been an estimated 6 million children in the United States who have received a diagnosis as of 2016. Although ADHD can’t be cured, there are many treatments available to minimize its symptoms and effect on your life. Treatments include behavioral therapy and medications.
One of the most common ADHD medication options is central nervous system stimulants (CNS). They work by increasing the amount of certain chemicals in the brain, which can improve concentration and focus. Focalin and Vyvanse are both brand-name stimulant medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration for ADHD. Other stimulant drugs include Ritalin (methylphenidate), Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine), and Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine).
Although Focalin and Vyvanse are both used to treat ADHD, they have some important differences. In this article, we’ll discuss Focalin vs. Vyvanse.
RELATED: What is Focalin? | What is Vyvanse?
What are the main differences between Focalin and Vyvanse?
Focalin contains the active drug dexmethylphenidate. It’s a Schedule II controlled substance that’s approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat ADHD. Although Focalin is commonly referred to as its brand name, a generic version of Focalin is available. It’s also available in two formulations: an immediate-release tablet and an extended-release capsule.
Vyvanse contains the active drug lisdexamfetamine. Like Focalin, Vyvanse is also a Schedule II controlled substance approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. In addition to ADHD, Vyvanse is approved to treat moderate to severe binge eating disorder. As of 2023, there are generic versions of Vyvanse available. Vyvanse comes in capsules and chewable tablets.
| Focalin | Vyvanse | |
| Drug class | Stimulant | Stimulant |
| Brand/generic status | Brand and generic versions available | Brand and generic versions available |
| What is the generic name? | Dexmethylphenidate | Lisdexamfetamine |
| What forms does the drug come in? | Immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsule | Capsule, chewable tablet |
| What is the standard dosage? | 2.5 to 10 mg twice per day | 30 to 70 mg once per day |
| How long is the typical treatment? | Varies; months to years | Varies; months to years |
| Who typically uses the medication? | Adults and children ages 6 years and older | Adults and children ages 6 years and older |
Conditions treated by Focalin and Vyvanse
Both Focalin and Vyvanse are prescribed to treat ADHD in adults and children. ADHD is characterized by inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Vyvanse may also be prescribed for binge eating disorder, which is an eating disorder characterized by the frequent consumption of large amounts of food. Off-label uses of both drugs include narcolepsy and severe depression. However, Focalin may also be prescribed off-label for obesity.
| Condition | Focalin | Vyvanse |
| ADHD | Yes | Yes |
| Binge eating disorder | No | Yes |
| Depression | Off-label | Off-label |
| Narcolepsy | Off-label | Off-label |
| Obesity | Off-label | No |
Is Focalin or Vyvanse more effective?
Both Focalin and Vyvanse have been shown to be effective for ADHD.
In clinical studies, Focalin was found to be an effective treatment option for reducing symptoms of ADHD. One review showed that Focalin is just as effective as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, others) at half the dose, and its effects may last longer than methylphenidate.
Vyvanse was also shown to be effective at improving ADHD symptoms. A large analysis of 20 studies showed Vyvanse had the largest effect in reducing ADHD symptoms in comparison to amphetamines, modafinil, and methylphenidate.
Another meta-analysis of 133 clinical trials compared methylphenidate-containing drugs, including Focalin, amphetamines, including Vyvanse, and non-stimulant medications for ADHD in adults and children. Results showed methylphenidate-containing drugs were most effective for ADHD in children and adolescents, while amphetamines were most effective for adults.
The most effective medication, though, can vary from person to person. Consult a healthcare professional to help determine the most beneficial medication for you. This can differ based on your medical condition, medical history, and medications or supplements you’re taking. In some cases, it can be a matter of trial and error.
Coverage and cost comparison of Focalin vs Vyvanse
Private insurance plans or Medicare may not cover brand-name Focalin, but the generic version may be covered. Without insurance, the average cash price for a 30-day supply of Focalin is $130 for 60, 10 mg tablets. Using a free SingleCare coupon can help you save on your Focalin prescription. With a SingleCare discount, the cost can be less than $20 for a 30-day supply.
Unlike Focalin, brand-name and generic Vyvanse typically won’t be covered by commercial insurance or Medicare plans. Without insurance, the cash price of Vyvanse is $560 for a 30-day supply of medication. However, a free SingleCare coupon can lower the cost to under $100.
| Focalin | Vyvanse | |
| Typically covered by insurance? | Yes | Yes |
| Typically covered by Medicare Part D? | Yes | No |
| Quantity | 60, 10 mg tablets | 30, 70 mg tablets |
| Typical Medicare copay | Depends on your coverage stage | Depends on your coverage stage |
| SingleCare cost | Under $20 | $100 |
Common side effects of Focalin vs Vyvanse
Since Focalin and Vyvanse are both stimulants, they cause similar side effects. Common side effects of Focalin include abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and loss of appetite. Some of Vyvanse’s most common side effects are loss of appetite, anxiety, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, nausea, and upper abdominal pain.
Both medications can also cause serious side effects. These include increased blood pressure and heart rate, psychotic or manic symptoms, and slowed growth in children.
The following table contains a list of side effects of Focalin and Vyvanse. This is only a partial list. Always consult a healthcare professional for a complete list of side effects.
| Focalin | Vyvanse | |||
| Side Effect | Applicable? | Frequency | Applicable? | Frequency |
| Abdominal pain | Yes | 15% | Yes | 12% |
| Fever | Yes | 5% | Yes | 2% |
| Loss of appetite | Yes | 6% | Yes | 39% |
| Nausea | Yes | 9% | Yes | 6% |
| Insomnia | Yes | % not given | Yes | 22% |
| Irritability | No | Yes | 10% | |
| Vomiting | Yes | % not given | Yes | 9% |
| Weight loss | Yes | % not given | Yes | 9% |
Source: DailyMed (Focalin), DailyMed (Vyvanse)
Drug interactions of Focalin vs Vyvanse
Focalin and Vyvanse may interact with other medications. These interactions can lead to serious adverse effects or changes in effectiveness.
Focalin can interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), blood pressure medications, certain anesthetics, and certain antipsychotic medications.
Vyvanse can interact with MAOIs as well, but it can also interact with drugs that increase serotonin levels, drugs that alter the acidity of your urine, and tricyclic antidepressants.
The following table shows some of the common drug interactions of Focalin and Vyvanse.
| Drug | Drug Class | Focalin | Vyvanse |
| Eldepryl (selegiline), Parnate (tranylcypromine) | Monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) | Yes | Yes |
| Toprol (metoprolol) | Beta blocker | Yes | Yes |
| Zestril (lisinopril) | Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor | Yes | Yes |
| Norvasc (amlodipine) | Calcium channel blocker (CCB) | Yes | Yes |
| Halothane | Halogenated anesthetic | Yes | Yes |
| Risperdal (risperidone) | Atypical antipsychotic | Yes | No |
| Imitrex (sumatriptan) | Triptan | Yes | Yes |
| Wellbutrin (bupropion) | Norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NRI) | Yes | Yes |
| Paxil (paroxetine) | Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) | Yes | Yes |
| Elavil (amitriptyline), Pamelor (nortriptyline) | Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) | Yes | Yes |
Warnings of Focalin and Vyvanse
Focalin and Vyvanse are Schedule II controlled substances that have boxed warnings for the risk of misuse, abuse, and addiction. They have a high potential for abuse and misuse, which can lead to substance use disorder, overdose, and even death. This risk increases with higher dosages or if the drugs are used in ways they aren’t supposed to, such as through injection. Due to this risk, your healthcare provider will monitor you or your child closely during the treatment of ADHD for signs of misuse, abuse, and addiction.
These medications can cause serious medical events, including sudden death, in people with heart problems, such as heart defects. For this reason, tell your doctor if you or your child has any heart conditions, heart disease, or heart defects. If you or your child experience signs or symptoms of heart problems during treatment, get emergency medical help right away. Examples include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fainting.
Focalin and Vyvanse can also increase blood pressure and heart rate. If you take medications for high blood pressure (hypertension), Focalin and Vyvanse may make them less effective.
Stimulants, including Focalin and Vyvanse, can also cause or worsen mental health problems. Symptoms include new or worsening behavior and thoughts, hallucinations, delusions, or mania.
Stimulants typically aren’t recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult a healthcare professional before taking Focalin or Vyvanse.
Frequently asked questions about Focalin vs Vyvanse
Are Focalin and Vyvanse the same?
No. While Focalin and Vyvanse are both stimulant drugs used for ADHD, they are different medications. Focalin contains the active drug dexmethylphenidate, while Vyvanse contains the active drug lisdexamfetamine. Focalin is only approved to treat ADHD, but Vyvanse is used to treat ADHD and binge eating disorder.
Is Focalin or Vyvanse better?
It depends on the person. Focalin and Vyvanse are both effective treatment options for ADHD. Finding the right medication for your condition is often a matter of trial and error. Nevertheless, some research says Focalin is more effective for children and adolescents, while Vyvanse is better for treating adults. Consult with your healthcare provider about which treatment is best for you.
Can I use Focalin or Vyvanse while pregnant?
It’s not recommended to take Focalin or Vyvanse while pregnant. Stimulants may cause harm to an unborn baby during pregnancy. If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, seek medical advice before starting Focalin or Vyvanse.
Can I use Focalin or Vyvanse with alcohol?
It’s usually not recommended to drink alcohol while taking stimulant medications. Doing so can increase the risk of side effects, such as increased blood pressure and heart rate. Discuss any alcohol consumption with a healthcare provider before taking Focalin or Vyvanse.
Sources
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride and d,l-threo-methylphenidate hydrochloride in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (2004)
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2023)
- Comparative efficacy and tolerability of medications for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children, adolescents, and adults: A systematic review and network meta-analysis, The Lancet (2018)
- Dexmethylphenidate fact sheet, Child Medication Fact Book for Psychiatric Practice
- Efficacy, acceptability, and tolerability of lisdexamfetamine, mixed amphetamine salts, methylphenidate, and modafinil in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis, Annals of Pharmacotherapy (2019)
- FDA approves multiple generics of ADHD and BED treatment, Food and Drug Administration (2023)
- Focalin (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) tablets, for oral use, CII, DailyMed (2023)
- Methylphenidate and dexmethylphenidate formulations for children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy (2014)
- Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) capsules, for oral use, CII; Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) chewable tablets, for oral use, CII, DailyMed (2023)
