{"id":631357,"date":"2025-02-11T16:40:04","date_gmt":"2025-02-11T21:40:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=631357"},"modified":"2025-09-12T16:28:56","modified_gmt":"2025-09-12T20:28:56","slug":"phentermine-vs-vyvanse","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/phentermine-vs-vyvanse\/","title":{"rendered":"Phentermine vs. Vyvanse: Differences, similarities, and side effects"},"content":{"rendered":"

Phentermine<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Vyvanse<\/span><\/a> are two fairly different prescription drugs. They\u2019re both central nervous system (CNS) stimulant drugs that work by increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain\u2014but that\u2019s where the similarities end. Phentermine is usually prescribed as a weight loss drug, while Vyvanse is prescribed for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge-eating disorder. These medications also have different side effects, costs, interactions, and more.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Phentermine vs. Vyvanse: Key differences<\/span><\/h2>\n

Vyvanse is a brand-name medication that is available in tablet or capsule form, and it is also available as the generic <\/span>lisdexamfetamine dimesylate<\/span><\/a>. It is a stimulant that\u2019s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat ADHD in adults and children 6 years and older. It\u2019s also the only FDA-approved medication <\/span>for treating binge eating disorder<\/span><\/a> in adults.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Vyvanse reduces symptoms of impulsivity and inattention. \u201cIts primary mechanism is to increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain\u2014dopamine and norepinephrine. This action helps improve attention and focus, and can reduce impulsivity,\u201d says <\/span>Danielle Kelvas, MD<\/span><\/a>, primary care physician at <\/span>The HCG Institute<\/span><\/a> and chief medical editor at <\/span>DKMD Consulting<\/span><\/a>. In many cases, it’s prescribed as a longer-term maintenance drug.<\/span><\/p>\n

Phentermine is a generic drug sold in tablet or capsule form. It\u2019s available under the brand names <\/span>Adipex-P<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Lomaira<\/span><\/a>, and it\u2019s also combined with the anticonvulsant topiramate in a brand-name drug called <\/span>Qsymia<\/span><\/a>. Phentermine is \u201ca sympathomimetic amine with pharmacologic activity similar to that of amphetamines,\u201d Dr. Kelvas says. \u201cIt suppresses appetite and possibly increases energy expenditure by interacting with the central nervous system.\u201d phentermine is typically only prescribed for short-term use, although some healthcare providers may also approve it for longer treatments.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s worth noting that both medications are classified as controlled substances by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Phentermine is Schedule IV and Vyvanse is Schedule II, which means Vyvanse has a higher risk of abuse and dependence. That\u2019s why Dr. Kelvas says, \u201cIt’s critical for drugs like this (addictive controlled stimulants) to be given in tandem with cognitive behavioral therapy, or some sort of regular ongoing follow-up.\u201d Many states have additional requirements for physicians to prescribe Scheduled II, III, and VI medications.\u00a0 These requirements may include the patient signing a controlled substance agreement, having the patient perform an initial (and random) urine drug screen, and assess the risk for misuse or abuse.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
\n

Compare phentermine vs. Vyvanse key differences<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

<\/td>\nPhentermine<\/b><\/td>\nVyvanse<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drug class<\/b><\/td>\nAnorectics<\/span><\/td>\nCNS stimulant<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand\/generic status<\/b><\/td>\nGeneric<\/span><\/td>\nBrand-name<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What are the generic and brand names?<\/b><\/td>\nBrand names: Adipex-P and Lomaira<\/span><\/td>\nGeneric: Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What form(s) does the drug come in?<\/b><\/td>\nTablets and capsules<\/span><\/td>\nTablets and capsules<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the standard dosage?<\/b><\/td>\n15\u201337.5 mg once daily<\/span><\/td>\nFor ADHD: 30\u201370 mg taken once daily in the morning<\/span><\/p>\n

For binge-eating disorder: 50\u201370 mg taken once daily in the morning<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

How long is the typical treatment?<\/b><\/td>\n12 weeks or less<\/span><\/td>\nLong-term<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Who typically uses the medication?<\/b><\/td>\nAdults and adolescents 16 years and older<\/span><\/td>\nAdults and children 6 years and older<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

Phentermine vs. Vyvanse: Conditions treated<\/span><\/h2>\n

Vyvanse is FDA approved to treat ADHD and binge-eating disorder, and studies have confirmed its effectiveness in <\/span>improving adult ADHD<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>reducing binge-eating episodes<\/span><\/a>. Healthcare providers may also prescribe it off-label to treat depression or narcolepsy. \u201cWhile Vyvanse can help those with binge eating disorder lose weight, it\u2019s not a weight loss drug. However, some people may abuse it to lose weight, as weight loss can occur with Vyvanse use,\u201d says <\/span>Michael McGrath<\/span><\/a>, MD<\/span>, board-certified psychiatrist and chief clinical officer at <\/span>The Ohana Hawaii<\/span><\/a>. \u201cThere are much safer, and FDA-approved medications for weight loss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Phentermine is only FDA approved for short-term weight reduction, and <\/span>modern research <\/span><\/a>has proven its efficacy (especially when combined with topiramate). In most cases, it works best alongside lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. \u201cPhentermine is not approved by the FDA to treat ADHD but it\u2019s sometimes prescribed off-label for ADHD,\u201d says Dr. McGrath. \u201cThis drug works similarly to ADHD medications, which is why it\u2019s prescribed off-label for this. However, the research is scarce on the effectiveness of <\/span>phentermine for ADHD<\/span><\/a>.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
\n

Compare phentermine vs. Vyvanse conditions treated<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

Condition<\/b><\/td>\nPhentermine<\/b><\/td>\nVyvanse<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Obesity or overweight with a weight-related condition<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
ADHD<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/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>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Narcolepsy<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

Phentermine vs. Vyvanse cost\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

As a generic drug, phentermine often costs significantly less than brand-name Vyvanse. For people paying completely out of pocket, <\/span>phentermine can cost<\/span><\/a> around $51 for a 30-day supply, while <\/span>Vyvanse costs<\/span><\/a> around $539.<\/span><\/p>\n

Of course, not everyone has to pay 100% out of pocket. Some insurance and Medicare Part D plans will cover Vyvanse when it\u2019s deemed medically necessary\u2014although some might have prior authorization requirements. Many insurance and Medicare plans, however, refuse to cover weight loss drugs, so phentermine might not receive coverage. It all depends on your specific plan, so check your formulary to find out for sure.<\/span><\/p>\n

Yet insurance coverage isn\u2019t the only way to save on phentermine and Vyvanse. Coupons from SingleCare can significantly reduce the price of either drug. It\u2019s free to<\/span> sign up<\/span><\/a> and you just need to present your discount card at a local participating pharmacy to reap the benefits.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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Compare phentermine vs. Vyvanse cost & coverage<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

<\/td>\nPhentermine<\/b><\/td>\nVyvanse<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by insurance?<\/b><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by Medicare Part D?<\/b><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Quantity<\/b><\/td>\n30, 37.5 mg tablets<\/span><\/td>\n30, 50 mg capsules<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cost without insurance*<\/b><\/td>\n$51<\/span><\/td>\n$539<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
SingleCare cost*<\/b><\/td>\n$10<\/span><\/td>\n$105 for generic lisdexamfetamine dimesylate<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Savings<\/b><\/td>\nGet coupon<\/span><\/a><\/td>\nGet coupon<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
*Cost at time of publication. Drug prices fluctuate and vary by location.\u00a0<\/span><\/h5>\n

Phentermine vs. Vyvanse side effects<\/span><\/h2>\n

The most common <\/span>side effects of Vyvanse<\/span><\/a> for adults with ADHD are decreased appetite, insomnia, dry mouth, and irritability. For adults with binge-eating disorder, the most common side effects are dry mouth, insomnia, decreased appetite, and increased heart rate. Abusing Vyvanse can also cause heart arrhythmia and psychosis, according to Dr. McGrath.<\/span><\/p>\n

The <\/span>side effects of phentermine<\/span><\/a> include irregular heartbeat, elevated blood pressure, restlessness, dizziness, and insomnia. And per Dr. McGrath, \u201cBoth phentermine and Vyvanse have side effects of dry mouth, nausea, and vomiting.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

In rare cases, each drug can also cause serious side effects. For example, phentermine may cause cardiovascular issues like pulmonary hypertension, rapid heart rate, and heart failure. Vyvanse can cause similar heart issues, plus <\/span>serotonin syndrome<\/span><\/a>, seizures, anxiety, and more. Dr. Kelvas says she also often has patients report palpitations\u2014sometimes to the point that the patient needs to discontinue Vyvanse treatment.<\/span><\/p>\n

These are only some of the possible side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider about how either drug may affect you.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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Compare phentermine vs. Vyvanse side effects<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

<\/td>\nPhentermine<\/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
Dry mouth<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n26%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Insomnia<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n24%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n27%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Decreased appetite<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n27%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Diarrhea<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n7%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Anxiety<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n24%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n6%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Feeling jittery<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n4%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Anorexia<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n5%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Increased blood pressure<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n3%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Agitation<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n3%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Restlessness<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n3%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Sweating<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n3%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Increased heart rate<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n2%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Difficulty breathing<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n2%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Tremors<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n2%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Palpitations<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Pulmonary hypertension<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dizziness<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Headache<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Mood changes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Psychosis<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Constipation<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Impotence<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Changes in libido<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nN\/A<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
Source: <\/span>Phentermine label<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Vyvanse label<\/span><\/a><\/h5>\n

Phentermine and Vyvanse drug interactions<\/span><\/h2>\n

The most serious <\/span>Vyvanse drug interaction<\/span><\/a> occurs when Vyvanse is taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (<\/span>MAOIs<\/span><\/a>). Taking them together can cause life-threatening blood pressure spikes, so patients should wait 14 days after taking their last MAOI before taking phentermine. It can also cause seizures when mixed with some antipsychotics (or bupropion) and serotonin syndrome when combined with certain selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).<\/span><\/p>\n

Many of the same drugs can <\/span>interact with Vyvanse<\/span><\/a>. It has the same serious interaction with MAOIs, and drugs that affect serotonin\u2014like SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, and some headache drugs. Other CNS stimulants can further push the heart rate and blood pressure to dangerous levels when combined with Vyvanse, and some analyzing agents can reduce the body\u2019s ability to eliminate the drug.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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Compare phentermine vs. Vyvanse drug interactions<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

Drug<\/b><\/td>\nDrug class<\/b><\/td>\nPhentermine<\/b><\/td>\nVyvanse<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Marplan (isocarboxazid)<\/span><\/td>\nMAOI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nardil (phenelzine)<\/span><\/td>\nMAOI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Emsam (selegiline)<\/span><\/td>\nMAOI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Parnate (tranylcypromine)<\/span><\/td>\nMAOI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
ProvayBlue (methylene blue)<\/span><\/td>\nMAOI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Zyvox (linezolid)<\/span><\/td>\nMAOI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Prozac (fluoxetine)<\/span><\/td>\nSSRI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Celexa (citalopram)<\/span><\/td>\nSSRI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Zoloft (sertraline)<\/span><\/td>\nSSRI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Paxil (paroxetine)<\/span><\/td>\nSSRI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Lexapro (escitalopram)\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nSSRI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Pristiq (desvenlafaxine)<\/span><\/td>\nSNRI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cymbalta (duloxetine)<\/span><\/td>\nSNRI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Amitriptyline<\/span><\/td>\nTricyclic antidepressant<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Buspirone<\/span><\/td>\nAnxiolytic<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Adderall<\/a> (dextroamphetamine)<\/span><\/td>\nCNS stimulant<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dexedrine<\/span><\/td>\nCNS stimulant<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ritalin (methylphenidate)\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nCNS stimulant<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Preludin (benzphetamine)<\/span><\/td>\nSympathomimetic amine<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Bontril (phendimetrazine)<\/span><\/td>\nFluoroquinolone antibiotic<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Epinephrine<\/span><\/td>\nAlpha\/beta adrenergic agonist<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Norepinephrine<\/span><\/td>\nAlpha\/beta adrenergic agonist<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Acetazolamide<\/span><\/td>\nCarbonic anhydrase inhibitor<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Hydrochlorothiazide<\/span><\/td>\nDiuretic<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Chlorothiazide<\/span><\/td>\nDiuretic<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Sodium bicarbonate<\/span><\/td>\nAlkalinizing agent<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Abilify (aripiprazole)<\/span><\/td>\nAntipsychotic<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nSometimes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Seroquel (quetiapine)<\/span><\/td>\nAntipsychotic<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Zyprexa (olanzapine)<\/span><\/td>\nAntipsychotic\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Wellbutrin (bupropion)<\/span><\/td>\nNDRI<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nSometimes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Zestril (lisinopril)<\/span><\/td>\nACE inhibitor<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Diovan (valsartan)<\/span><\/td>\nAngiotensin II receptor blocker<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Norvasc (amlodipine)<\/span><\/td>\nCalcium channel blocker<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nSometimes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Toprol XL (metoprolol succinate ER)<\/span><\/td>\nBeta blockers<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nSometimes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
*This may not be a complete list of drug interactions for phentermine and Vyvanse. Additionally, the likeness or severity of these interactions may depend on the patient\u2019s medical condition. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining drugs.\u00a0<\/i><\/b><\/h5>\n

Phentermine and Vyvanse drug warnings<\/span><\/h2>\n

Patients who should not use Vyvanse include those who have preexisting heart conditions like high blood pressure (since it can cause cardiovascular reactions), a medical history of substance abuse, hypersensitivity to amphetamines, or those who have taken an MAOI within 14 days. On the other hand, phentermine\u2019s label says phentermine use is contraindicated for people who have a history of heart disease, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, drug abuse, or those who have taken an MAOI within 14 days.<\/span><\/p>\n

People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid both drugs because they may harm the fetus and it\u2019s unclear how much of the drugs are passed through breast milk.<\/span><\/p>\n

As we\u2019ve already mentioned, both drugs can lead to abuse or physical and psychological dependence. They can also cause withdrawal when a patient stops using them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Bottom line<\/span><\/h2>\n

Phentermine and Vyvanse might affect the body in similar ways\u2014specifically when it comes to appetite\u2014but they\u2019re very different drugs with distinct uses. While phentermine is a low-cost, short-term, generic option for people looking to lose weight, Vyvanse is focused primarily on ADHD and binge-eating disorder treatment and tends to be more expensive. Regardless, a healthcare provider can provide specific medical advice on which might be best and safest for a particular patient\u2019s condition.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Phentermine and Vyvanse are two fairly different prescription drugs. They\u2019re both central nervous system (CNS) stimulant drugs that work by increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain\u2014but that\u2019s where the similarities end. Phentermine is usually prescribed as a weight loss drug, while Vyvanse is prescribed for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge-eating disorder. These […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":631359,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8313],"tags":[15107,9825],"coauthors":[8861],"class_list":["post-631357","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drug-vs-drug","tag-adhd","tag-weight-loss","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nPhentermine vs. Vyvanse: Differences, similarities, and side effects<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Phentermine and Vyvanse are CNS stimulants, but phentermine is an appetite suppressant, and Vyvanse treats ADHD and binge-eating disorders.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/phentermine-vs-vyvanse\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" 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