{"id":628041,"date":"2024-05-05T19:52:09","date_gmt":"2024-05-05T23:52:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=628041"},"modified":"2026-03-17T10:05:22","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T14:05:22","slug":"focalin-vs-vyvanse","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/focalin-vs-vyvanse\/","title":{"rendered":"Focalin vs. Vyvanse: Differences, Similarities, and Which One is Better For You"},"content":{"rendered":"

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (<\/span>ADHD<\/span><\/a>) is a behavioral condition characterized by inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. It occurs most often in children, and there have been an estimated <\/span>6 million<\/span><\/a> children in the United States who have received a diagnosis as of 2016. Although ADHD can\u2019t be cured, there are many treatments available to minimize its symptoms and effect on your life. Treatments include behavioral therapy and medications.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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 <\/span>Ritalin<\/span><\/a> (methylphenidate), <\/span>Dexedrine<\/span><\/a> (dextroamphetamine), and <\/span>Adderall<\/span><\/a> (amphetamine\/dextroamphetamine).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Although Focalin and Vyvanse are both<\/span> used to treat ADHD<\/span><\/a>, they have some important differences. In this article, we\u2019ll discuss Focalin vs. Vyvanse.\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

What are the main differences between Focalin and Vyvanse?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Focalin<\/span><\/a> contains the active drug dexmethylphenidate. It\u2019s a <\/span>Schedule II controlled substance<\/span><\/a> that\u2019s 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\u2019s also available in two formulations: an immediate-release tablet and an extended-release capsule.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Vyvanse<\/span><\/a> 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 <\/span>binge eating disorder<\/span><\/a>. As of <\/span>2023<\/span><\/a>, there are generic versions of Vyvanse available<\/a>. Vyvanse comes in capsules and chewable tablets.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
<\/td>\nFocalin<\/b><\/td>\nVyvanse<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drug class<\/b><\/td>\nStimulant<\/span><\/td>\nStimulant<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand\/generic status<\/b><\/td>\nBrand and generic versions available<\/span><\/td>\nBrand and generic versions available<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the generic name?<\/b><\/td>\nDexmethylphenidate<\/span><\/a><\/td>\nLisdexamfetamine<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What forms does the drug come in?<\/b><\/td>\nImmediate-release tablets, extended-release capsule<\/span><\/td>\nCapsule, chewable tablet<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the standard dosage?<\/b><\/td>\n2.5 to 10 mg twice per day<\/span><\/td>\n30 to 70 mg once per day<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
How long is the typical treatment?<\/b><\/td>\nVaries; months to years<\/span><\/td>\nVaries; months to years<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Who typically uses the medication?<\/b><\/td>\nAdults and children ages 6 years and older<\/span><\/td>\nAdults and children ages 6 years and older<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Conditions treated by Focalin and Vyvanse<\/span><\/h2>\n

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. <\/span>Off-label<\/span><\/a> uses of both drugs include <\/span>narcolepsy<\/span><\/a> and severe <\/span>depression<\/span><\/a>. However, Focalin may also be prescribed off-label for obesity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Condition<\/b><\/td>\nFocalin<\/b><\/td>\nVyvanse<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
ADHD<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Binge eating disorder<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Depression<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Narcolepsy<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Obesity<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Is Focalin or Vyvanse more effective?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Both Focalin and Vyvanse have been shown to be effective for ADHD.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In clinical studies, Focalin was found to be an effective treatment option for reducing symptoms of ADHD. <\/span>One review<\/span><\/a> showed that Focalin is just as effective as <\/span>methylphenidate<\/span><\/a> (Ritalin, Concerta, others) at half the dose, and its effects may <\/span>last longer<\/span><\/a> than methylphenidate.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Vyvanse was also shown to be effective at improving ADHD symptoms. A large <\/span>analysis of 20 studies<\/span><\/a> showed Vyvanse had the largest effect in reducing ADHD symptoms in comparison to amphetamines, modafinil, and methylphenidate.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another <\/span>meta-analysis<\/span><\/a> 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 <\/span>children<\/span><\/a> and adolescents, while amphetamines were most effective for adults.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u2019re taking. In some cases, it can be a matter of trial and error.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Coverage and cost comparison of Focalin vs Vyvanse<\/span><\/h2>\n

Private insurance plans or <\/span>Medicare<\/span><\/a> 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 $63 for 60, 10 mg tablets. Using a <\/span>free SingleCare coupon<\/span><\/a> can help you save on your Focalin prescription. With a SingleCare discount, the cost can be less than $20 for a 30-day supply at Kroger<\/span><\/p>\n

Unlike Focalin, brand-name and generic Vyvanse typically won\u2019t be covered by commercial insurance or Medicare plans. Without insurance, the <\/span>cash price of Vyvanse<\/span><\/a> is $560 for a 30-day supply of medication. However, a <\/span>free SingleCare coupon<\/span><\/a> can lower the cost to under $56 at CVS.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
<\/td>\nFocalin<\/b><\/td>\nVyvanse<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by insurance?<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by Medicare Part D?<\/b><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Quantity<\/b><\/td>\n60, 10 mg tablets<\/span><\/td>\n30, 70 mg tablets<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typical Medicare copay<\/b><\/td>\nDepends on your coverage stage<\/span><\/td>\nDepends on your coverage stage<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
SingleCare cost<\/b><\/td>\nSee latest prices<\/span><\/a><\/td>\nSee latest prices<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Prescription drug prices often change. These are the most accurate medication prices at the time of publishing in ZIP code 23666 as o 12\/08\/25. The listed price without insurance references the price of brand-name drugs (unless otherwise specified). The listed SingleCare price references the price of generic drugs if available.<\/small><\/p>\n

Common side effects of Focalin vs Vyvanse<\/span><\/h2>\n

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 <\/span>Vyvanse\u2019s most common side effects<\/span><\/a> are loss of appetite, anxiety, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, nausea, and upper abdominal pain.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Both medications can also cause serious side effects. These include increased blood pressure and heart rate, psychotic or manic symptoms, and <\/span>slowed growth in children<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
<\/td>\nFocalin<\/b><\/td>\nVyvanse<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side Effect<\/b><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/b><\/td>\nFrequency<\/b><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/b><\/td>\nFrequency<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Abdominal pain<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n15%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n12%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Fever<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n5%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n2%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Loss of appetite<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n6%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n39%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nausea<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n9%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n6%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Insomnia<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n% not given<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n22%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Irritability<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n<\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n10%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Vomiting<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n% not given<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n9%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Weight loss<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n% not given<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n9%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Source: DailyMed (<\/b>Focalin<\/b><\/a>), DailyMed (<\/b>Vyvanse<\/b><\/a>)<\/b><\/p>\n

Drug interactions of Focalin vs Vyvanse<\/span><\/h2>\n

Focalin and Vyvanse may interact with other medications. These interactions can lead to serious adverse effects or changes in effectiveness.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Focalin can interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), blood pressure medications, certain anesthetics, and certain antipsychotic medications.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The following table shows some of the common drug interactions of Focalin and Vyvanse.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Drug<\/b><\/td>\nDrug Class<\/b><\/td>\nFocalin<\/b><\/td>\nVyvanse<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Eldepryl (selegiline), Parnate (tranylcypromine)<\/span><\/td>\nMonoamine oxidase inhibitor (<\/span>MAOI<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Toprol (metoprolol)<\/span><\/td>\nBeta blocker<\/span><\/a><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Zestril (lisinopril)<\/span><\/td>\nAngiotensin-converting enzyme (<\/span>ACE<\/span><\/a>) inhibitor\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Norvasc (amlodipine)<\/span><\/td>\nCalcium channel blocker (<\/span>CCB<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Halothane<\/span><\/td>\nHalogenated anesthetic<\/span><\/a><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Risperdal (risperidone)<\/span><\/td>\nAtypical antipsychotic\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Imitrex (sumatriptan)<\/span><\/td>\nTriptan<\/span><\/a><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Wellbutrin (bupropion)<\/span><\/td>\nNorepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor (<\/span>NRI<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Paxil (paroxetine)<\/span><\/td>\nSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (<\/span>SNRI<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Elavil (amitriptyline), Pamelor (nortriptyline)<\/span><\/td>\nTricyclic antidepressant (<\/span>TCA<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Warnings of Focalin and Vyvanse<\/span><\/h2>\n

Focalin and Vyvanse are <\/span>Schedule II controlled substances<\/span><\/a> that have <\/span>boxed warnings<\/span><\/a> 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\u2019t 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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

Focalin and Vyvanse can also <\/span>increase blood pressure<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>heart rate<\/span><\/a>. If you take medications for high blood pressure (<\/span>hypertension<\/span><\/a>), Focalin and Vyvanse may make them less effective.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Stimulants typically aren\u2019t recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you\u2019re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult a healthcare professional before taking Focalin or Vyvanse.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Frequently asked questions about Focalin vs Vyvanse<\/span><\/h2>\n

Are Focalin and Vyvanse the same?<\/span><\/h3>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Is Focalin or Vyvanse better?<\/span><\/h3>\n

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 <\/span>children and adolescents<\/span><\/a>, while Vyvanse is better for treating adults. Consult with your healthcare provider about which treatment is best for you.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Can I use Focalin or Vyvanse while pregnant?<\/span><\/h3>\n

It\u2019s not recommended to take Focalin or <\/span>Vyvanse while pregnant<\/span><\/a>. Stimulants may cause harm to an unborn baby during pregnancy. If you\u2019re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, seek medical advice before starting Focalin or Vyvanse.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Can I use Focalin or Vyvanse with alcohol?<\/span><\/h3>\n

It\u2019s usually <\/span>not recommended to drink alcohol<\/span><\/a> 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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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\u2019t be cured, there are many treatments available to minimize its […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":133,"featured_media":628043,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8313],"tags":[15107],"coauthors":[20969],"class_list":["post-628041","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drug-vs-drug","tag-adhd","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nFocalin vs. Vyvanse: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Focalin and Vyvanse treat ADHD, but they work in different ways. 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