Concerta vs. Vyvanse: How Are They Different?
While the ADHD medications are similar, variations may make one a better choice over the other for you
Concerta® and Vyvanse® are two of the more familiar medications used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. Both are stimulant medications that help boost brain chemicals involved in attention and focus.
But while they’re designed to address many of the same symptoms, they work a bit differently. We asked developmental pediatrician Carrie Cuffman, MD, to break it down.
What are Concerta and Vyvanse?
Concerta and Vyvanse are long-acting stimulants frequently used to treat ADHD. The medications increase the activity of chemicals (or neurotransmitters) in your brain called dopamine and norepinephrine.
Each works to address core symptoms of ADHD, like:
- Inattention
- Difficulty focusing
- Being easily distracted
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsive behaviors
Although Concerta and Vyvanse serve similar purposes for treating ADHD, they belong to different classes of stimulant medications. Concerta is a methylphenidate. Vyvanse is an amphetamine.
“Concerta and Vyvanse work toward the same goals,” says Dr. Cuffman. “But each has quirks that distinguish them apart.”
How are Concerta and Vyvanse different?
Concerta and Vyvanse sport similar resumes, but key differences exist, says Dr. Cuffman. That includes:
- What they target: Both Concerta and Vyvanse raise levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. But while each blocks reuptake to help those chemicals stick around longer, Vyvanse also prompts the brain to increase their release.
- How they work: Concerta is an extended-release tablet that gradually releases medication throughout the day. Vyvanse starts in an inactive form before your body converts it into a working medication.
- Activation time: Concerta typically kicks in a bit faster, sometimes in as little as 30 minutes to an hour. Vyvanse can take one to two hours to activate and start working.
- How long they last: Vyvanse often works longer than Concerta. “Some people get up to 14 hours out of Vyvanse,” reports Dr. Cuffman. “With Concerta, it usually lasts 10 to 12 hours.”
- Approved uses: While Concerta and Vyvanse are both approved for ADHD treatment, Vyvanse can also be prescribed to address binge-eating disorder in adults.
Are potential side effects similar?
Common side effects of Concerta and Vyvanse are similar. You may experience:
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty sleeping
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Headaches
- Anxiety or jitteriness
- Stomach upset
More serious but less common effects include:
- Worsening of tics
- Blood circulation issues, which can lead to cold fingers and toes (including Raynaud’s syndrome)
Of the two, Concerta is more likely to bring moodiness or irritability when it wears off. Vyvanse is more associated with feeling wired or amped up, maybe even to the point of being overstimulated.
“These are general patterns, though. They’re not absolutes,” clarifies Dr. Cuffman. “Responses vary from one person to another. Your experience may be different.”
Is one better than the other?
Both Concerta and Vyvanse have proven effective at managing ADHD symptoms and have been prescribed for many years. But some people respond better to one than the other. Different medications are also available for treating ADHD.
“There are a lot of options, each one with just a slightly different chemical structure affecting how it works,” says Dr. Cuffman. “The goal is to find the one that’s best for you.”
Treatment often starts with one medication and is adjusted or changed based on how well it works and whether you experience side effects. Dialing in the right medication can involve some trial and error.
Providers often prescribe Vyvanse to adults because many feel it offers smoother, longer coverage. Children and teens more commonly use Concerta. However, both medications are prescribed for adults and kids.
Are there other medication options?
While Concerta and Vyvanse may be among the most common long-acting ADHD medications, they’re not the only options available.
Other long-acting methylphenidates (like Concerta) include brand names like:
- Ritalin LA®
- Metadate CD®
- Aptensio XR®
- Quillivant XR®
The list of long-acting amphetamines (like Vyvanse) includes:
- Adderall XR®
- Mydayis®
- Dexedrine®
- Dyanavel XR®
Shorter-acting medications in each class are also available to address different needs.
Remember, it may take some trial and error, but with your healthcare provider, you can find the right one for you.