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Vyvanse vs Desoxyn
Introduction
For patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or narcolepsy, certain drugs that alter the concentrations of compounds in the brain called neurotransmitters can help manage symptoms. Vyvanse and Desoxyn are two such medications commonly prescribed for these conditions. They each influence different neurotransmitters in the brain, but both have effects on alertness and focus. Vyvanse is a prodrug of dextroamphetamine which means it needs to be metabolized into its active form - affecting levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the central nervous system. Desoxyn, on other hand, is methamphetamine hydrochloride acting as an amphetamine releasing agent which primarily increases levels of dopamine and also has some effect on serotonin release.
Vyvanse vs Desoxyn Side By Side
| Attribute | Vyvanse | Desoxyn |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Vyvanse | Desoxyn |
| Contraindications | Should not be taken if you are taking or have been taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. High risk for abuse and dependence; should be used only as prescribed. | Should not be used as a first line drug due to its potential for abuse and dependence. Should not be taken if you are taking or have been taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. |
| Cost | The price of 30 capsules of Vyvanse (40 mg) averages around $380, which works out to approximately $12.67/day. | The price of 30 tablets of Desoxyn (5 mg) is about $720, working out to roughly $24/day. |
| Generic Name | Lisdexamfetamine | Methamphetamine hydrochloride |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Symptoms of serotonin syndrome: agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate. Uncontrollable movements or vocal sounds (tics). | Increased heart rate or palpitations, shortness of breath and chest pain, signs of allergic reaction, blurred vision, mood swings, aggressive behavior, paranoia. |
| Severe Drug Interactions | MAO inhibitors due to the risk of serious side effects. | MAO inhibitors due to the risk of serious side effects. |
| Typical Dose | Oral dosages range from 30-70 mg/day for treating ADHD in adults and children aged 6 to 17. For binge eating disorder in adults, the dosage range is typically between 50–70 mg/day. | Treatment typically begins at a dosage of 5 mg once or twice daily. The dose can then be increased to 25 mg/day, divided into one or two doses. The maximum recommended dose is 40 mg/day. |
What is Vyvanse?
Lisdexamfetamine (the generic name for Vyvanse) is a prodrug of the central nervous system (CNS) stimulant dextroamphetamine, which marked a substantial progress in the class of drugs recognized as CNS stimulants. Vyvanse was first approved by the FDA in 2007. This medication enhances levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, effectively increasing their availability within the brain for longer periods than usual. It is prescribed primarily to treat conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Compared to other stimulants like methamphetamine (Desoxyn), Lisdexamfetamine has an extended release mechanism that results in more stable, prolonged effects with less potential for abuse due to its slower onset.
What conditions is Vyvanse approved to treat?
Vyvanse and Desoxyn are both approved for the treatment of different conditions:
- Vyvanse is used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Binge Eating Disorder (BED)
- Desoxyn, on the other hand, is also used in treating ADHD but can be utilized for weight loss in obese patients who have not seen success with other treatments.
How does Vyvanse help with these illnesses?
Vyvanse is a medication that manages Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the synapses of the brain. It accomplishes this by blocking these neurotransmitters from being reabsorbed back into nerve cells, thus keeping them available for longer periods. Both dopamine and norepinephrine are chemicals responsible for transmitting messages in the brain and throughout the body, playing key roles in attention, motivation, pleasure response, and motor function among other things. Individuals with ADHD often have lower levels of these neurotransmitters; therefore, Vyvanse's ability to increase their availability helps limit symptoms associated with ADHD such as lack of focus or hyperactivity.
Desoxyn also works to manage ADHD but does so through its action on not only dopamine and norepinephrine but serotonin as well. By enhancing neurotransmitter release while inhibiting their reuptake into neurons at different degrees based on dosage used; Desoxyn can provide more comprehensive symptom control than Vyvanse alone.
What is Desoxyn?
Desoxyn is the brand name for methamphetamine hydrochloride, a potent central nervous system stimulant. Like Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine), Desoxyn increases levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain by inhibiting their reabsorption into nerve cells. This process can result in increased alertness, focus, and energy levels — traits that make it beneficial for managing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or as a short-term component of weight-reduction treatments along with lifestyle modifications.
Desoxyn was first approved by the FDA back in 1943. Although similar to Vyvanse, Desoxyn distinguishes itself through its pharmacological profile: unlike lisdexamfetamine which needs to be metabolized into dextroamphetamine before acting on the body, methamphetamine acts directly upon ingestion providing more immediate effects but also potentially leading to quicker onset of side effects which may include insomnia and decreased appetite among others.
Moreover, while both medications have potential for misuse due to their stimulatory properties on reward centers within the brain; use of Desoxyn requires careful monitoring because its active form - methamphetamine - carries higher potential risk for dependence and addiction compared to Vyvanse's dextroamphetamine. Therefore patients who do not respond well or cannot tolerate other ADHD medications such as Vyvanse might consider trying Desoxyn under close guidance from their healthcare provider.
What conditions is Desoxyn approved to treat?
Desoxyn is a prescription medication that has been approved by the FDA for:
- Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in pediatric patients ages 6 and up
- Short-term treatment as part of a weight reduction program for obesity in adults, after other treatments have failed. Use with diet plans and exercise.
Please note that Desoxyn should not be used as a first line drug due to its potential for abuse and dependence.
How does Desoxyn help with these illnesses?
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays several important roles in the brain and body. It's involved in reward, motivation, memory, attention and even regulating body movements. When dopamine levels are low or imbalanced, it can be associated with conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy.
Desoxyn works by targeting the dopamine system to increase its availability within the neural synapses of the brain. This action helps alleviate symptoms such as lack of focus, impulsivity and hyperactivity often seen in patients with ADHD. Desoxyn achieves this by stimulating release of stored dopamine while simultaneously blocking its reuptake into nerve cells.
While both Vyvanse and Desoxyn work on increasing dopamine levels to manage ADHD symptoms better, they do so differently; Vyvanse takes a prodrug approach where it gets converted into active amphetamine once ingested and has less risk for abuse compared to other stimulants due to this mechanism.
However, because Desoxyn directly stimulates dopamine release without needing conversion (like Vyvanse), there may be instances where it could deliver more immediate effects. Therefore, if a patient doesn't respond well to medications like Vyvanse or needs faster symptom relief for certain situations - under medical supervision - Desoxyn might come into consideration.
How effective are both Vyvanse and Desoxyn?
Both lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) and methamphetamine hydrochloride (Desoxyn) are potent stimulants used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with Vyvanse also approved for treating binge eating disorder. They were initially approved by the FDA several decades apart, with Desoxyn being older and first approved in 1943, while Vyvanse was more recently introduced to market in 2007. Both drugs act on similar neurotransmitters – mainly dopamine and norepinephrine – but due to differences in their formulation, they have distinct pharmacokinetic profiles.
A double-blind clinical trial compared these two medications directly; both exhibited notable efficacy in managing symptoms of ADHD as well as having comparable safety profiles at therapeutic doses. However, it is important to note that Desoxyn has a high potential for abuse owing to its chemical structure being identical to illicit methamphetamine.
In terms of tolerability and side effects, a meta-analysis report showed that Vyvanse carries less risk for adverse events compared with other stimulant medications. It remains effective throughout the day without causing significant "rebound" symptoms when it wears off due its prodrug status where dextroamphetamine is gradually released through enzymatic conversion over time leading to smoother drug levels during the day.
On the contrary, Desoxyn—due to its strong potency—is typically reserved as a second- or third-line treatment option if other treatments fail or cannot be tolerated by patients. The evidence base supporting its use primarily involves short-term studies conducted several decades ago so data reinforcing long term efficacy and safety may be considered less robust than that available for modern alternatives like Vyvanse.
Nonetheless due to their unique properties both drugs can play an important role depending on individual patient needs: For instance those who did not respond well or experienced intolerable side effects from methylphenidate-based therapies could potentially benefit from either one of these options under careful monitoring given their different mechanism of action.
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At what dose is Vyvanse typically prescribed?
Oral dosages of Vyvanse range from 30-70 mg/day for treating ADHD in adults and children aged 6 to 17. For binge eating disorder in adults, the dosage range is typically between 50–70 mg/day. Children may be started on a lower dose of about 30mg/day. In either population, dosage can be increased after a week if there is no response. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 70 mg.
On the other hand, Desoxyn's starting oral dosage for treating ADHD in pediatric patients (age groups six years old or older) is usually around 5mg once or twice daily; it may be gradually increased weekly by increments of 5mg until an optimal response is obtained. However, the usual effective dose ranges from just a mere fraction at only about .02-.03mg/kg up to even less than half that total at only about .4-.5mg/kg per day - which means that this particular medication requires much more precision and caution when prescribing it due to its potential for abuse and addiction compared with Vyvanse.
At what dose is Desoxyn typically prescribed?
Desoxyn treatment typically begins at a dosage of 5 mg once or twice daily. The dose can then be increased to 25 mg/day, divided into one or two doses spaced out during the day. The maximum recommended dose is 40 mg/day divided into separate doses and taken at intervals throughout the day depending on need and response to therapy. If there is no appreciable response after a few weeks of reaching the maximum dosage, your doctor may want to reconsider the use of Desoxyn for your condition.
What are the most common side effects for Vyvanse?
Common side effects of Vyvanse can include:
- Anxiety and nervousness
- Insomnia or trouble sleeping
- Decreased appetite (anorexia)
- Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset (dyspepsia)
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Weight loss
- Irritability and restlessness
While common side effects of Desoxyn may consist of:
- Nervousness and hyperactivity
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Loss of appetite leading to weight loss
- Stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea or constipation.
- Headache. dizziness.
- Dry mouth.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Vyvanse?
Desoxyn and Vyvanse are both stimulant medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but they can cause different side effects. With Desoxyn, you may experience:
- Increased heart rate or palpitations
- Shortness of breath and chest pain
- Signs of allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat
- Blurred vision or other changes in sight
- Dizziness or fainting spells
- Mood swings, aggressive behavior, paranoia
Vyvanse can also cause these symptoms but might additionally lead to:
- Uncontrollable movements or vocal sounds (tics)
- Symptoms of serotonin syndrome: agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate
- Lower levels of sodium in the body which could manifest as headache confusion slurred speech severe weakness vomiting loss coordination feeling unsteady
If any of these signs occur after taking either medication get medical help immediately. Remember that this list is not exhaustive and individual reactions may vary. Always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate information.
What are the most common side effects for Desoxyn?
Desoxyn, a medication utilized for ADHD and obesity management, can lead to several side effects. Some individuals may experience dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in the mouth. They might also notice ringing in their ears or blurred vision. Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite and constipation are not uncommon with Desoxyn use either. Users may face sleep problems including insomnia and find themselves suffering from tremors, excessive sweating or feelings of anxiety and nervousness. A rapid heartbeat is another potential effect that needs monitoring by medical professionals along with symptoms like confusion, agitation or hostility. Skin rashes could occur too. Significant weight loss is expected but if it becomes drastic or unhealthy it should be reported immediately to a healthcare provider alongside increased urination frequency which might indicate other health concerns. Lastly headache,dizziness,muscle pain ,or joint pain are some additional possible reactions to Desoxyn.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Desoxyn?
In some instances, Desoxyn may lead to serious side effects. If you start to notice any of the following symptoms after starting this medication, it's important that you contact your healthcare provider immediately:
- Signs of allergic reaction: hives, itching or skin rash; swelling in your face or throat; difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Mood swings and changes in behavior
- Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
- Blurred vision or other visual disturbances
- Unusual thoughts such as suicidal ideation
- Seizures (convulsions)
- Symptoms indicating high blood pressure like severe headache, chest pain, numbness on one side of the body.
Remember not to dismiss these symptoms if they arise while taking Desoxyn. Immediate medical attention is crucial for preventing potential long-term health consequences.
Contraindications for Vyvanse and Desoxyn?
Both Vyvanse and Desoxyn, along with most other stimulant medications, may exacerbate symptoms of anxiety or agitation in some people. If you notice your anxiety ramping up, an increase in restlessness or aggressive behavior, please seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Vyvanse nor Desoxyn should be taken if you are taking or have been taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors (MAOIs). Always inform your physician about any medications you are currently on; MAOIs will require a period of around 14 days to clear from the system to prevent dangerous interactions with Vyvanse and Desoxyn. It's important to note that these drugs carry a high risk for abuse and dependence; therefore they should be used only as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
How much do Vyvanse and Desoxyn cost?
For the brand name versions of these drugs:
- The price of 30 capsules of Vyvanse (40 mg) averages around $380, which works out to approximately $12.67/day.
- The price of 30 tablets of Desoxyn (5 mg) is about $720, working out to roughly $24/day.
Thus, if you are in the higher dosage range for Vyvanse (i.e., 70 mg/day), then brand-name Desoxyn becomes more expensive on a per-day treatment basis. Please note that cost should not be a primary consideration in determining which of these drugs is right for you.
It's important to note that generic versions for both Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) and Desoxyn (methamphetamine hydrochloride) aren’t available:
- Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate is available only as the branded medication Vyvanse and costs can vary from between $1 - $15 per day depending on insurance coverage and discounts applied.
- Methamphetamine hydrochloride too doesn't have approved generics in market and prices remain high at around an average cost of about $20-$25 per day with typical dosages ranging from 5mg – 25mg daily.
Popularity of Vyvanse and Desoxyn
Lisdexamfetamine, commonly known by the brand name Vyvanse, was estimated to have been prescribed to about 10.7 million people in the US in 2020. Lisdexamfetamine accounted for just over 15% of stimulant prescriptions in the US. It is classified as a prodrug, meaning it has little or no pharmacological activity until it is converted into its active form within the body.
Methamphetamine, often referred to by its brand name Desoxyn, saw significantly fewer prescriptions due to its highly potent and addictive properties. Prescribed predominantly for severe cases of ADHD that do not respond well to other forms of treatment and occasionally for obesity management, Desoxyn was used by only around 15 thousand patients in the US during 2020 - less than one percent when compared with Vyvanse's user base. The prevalence of methamphetamine prescription has been approximately steady over the last decade.
Conclusion
Both Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) and Desoxyn (methamphetamine) are central nervous system stimulants used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated their effectiveness compared to placebo treatments. In certain cases, these drugs might be used together, but such combinations require careful physician oversight due to potential interactions. Their mechanisms of action differ slightly; while both affect levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, methamphetamine has a more potent effect on dopamine.
Vyvanse is often considered as a first-line treatment option for ADHD due to its lower abuse potential brought about by its prodrug status which necessitates metabolic conversion for activation. On the other hand, Desoxyn may be considered when patients do not respond well to first-line stimulant medications or have particular needs that might benefit from its different pharmacokinetic profile.
Generic versions are available for both drugs offering cost savings especially for patients paying out-of-pocket. Both Vyvanse and Desoxyn can take some time before effects become noticeable since they typically require an adjustment period.
The side-effect profiles of these two medications bear similarities with common issues including insomnia, decreased appetite, weight loss and mood changes. However, Desoxyn tends to show higher incidence rates of adverse reactions such as rapid heart rate and increased blood pressure than Vyvanse does. Due to this risk profile along with high addictive potential associated with methamphetamine products like Desoxyn, it's crucial that patients monitor their response closely when initiating therapy or adjusting dosages under medical supervision.
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Refrences
- Howland, R. H. (2008, August). Lisdexamfetamine: A Prodrug Stimulant for ADHD. Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services. SLACK, Inc.http://doi.org/10.3928/02793695-20080801-05
- Madaan, V., & Domnitei. (2010, May). New and extended-action treatments in the management of ADHD: a critical appraisal of lisdexamfetamine in adults and children. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment. Informa UK Limited.http://doi.org/10.2147/ndt.s3328
- Sakai, C. (2020). Pharmacological properties and clinical effects of the ADHD drug, Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse<sup>®</sup> capsules 20 mg and 30 mg). Folia Pharmacologica Japonica. Japanese Pharmacological Society.http://doi.org/10.1254/fpj.20033
- Comiran, E., Kessler, F. H., Fröehlich, P. E., & Limberger, R. P. (2016, June). Lisdexamfetamine: A pharmacokinetic review. European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Elsevier BV.http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejps.2016.04.026
- Coghill, D. R., Caballero, B., Sorooshian, S., & Civil, R. (2014, May 1). A Systematic Review of the Safety of Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate. CNS Drugs. Springer Science and Business Media LLC.http://doi.org/10.1007/s40263-014-0166-2