| Brand/Generic name |
Jornay PM |
Vyvanse (generic: lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) |
| Active ingredient |
Methylphenidate |
Lisdexamfetamine (a prodrug of dextro‑amphetamine) |
| Drug class |
Stimulant (dopamine & norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) |
Stimulant (amphetamine derivative – increases synaptic dopamine & norepinephrine) |
| How it’s taken |
Oral tablet, once‑daily (usually at bedtime) |
Oral capsule, once‑daily (morning or midday) |
| Onset of action |
30–60 min (but the formulation is “extended‑release” so it starts slowly and peaks around 3–4 h) |
1–2 h (peak 2–3 h), but the whole effect lasts ~10–12 h because it’s a pro‑drug |
| Duration |
~12 h total (the “PM” version is meant to cover both day‑time focus and nighttime sleep) |
10–12 h (typical therapeutic window) |
| Dosage form |
1 tablet (10 mg or 12 mg) at bedtime |
20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg, or 70 mg capsules; usually taken in the morning |
| Typical starting dose |
10 mg (or 12 mg) at bedtime |
20 mg once daily (can be titrated) |
| Max daily dose |
12 mg (single tablet) |
70 mg (single capsule) |
| Metabolism |
Rapidly metabolized to active form by enzymatic hydrolysis |
Pro‑drug: converted by red blood cells into active dextro‑amphetamine; slower onset, lower abuse potential |
| Common side‑effects |
Loss of appetite, insomnia (rare because of bedtime dosing), mild stomach upset, headaches |
Decreased appetite, insomnia, dry mouth, jitteriness, increased heart rate, possible mood swings |
| Abuse potential |
Lower than immediate‑release methylphenidate; still a Schedule II controlled substance |
Lower than other amphetamines because it’s a pro‑drug; still Schedule II |
| Special populations |
Often considered for adults who have difficulty staying asleep on other stimulants; also used in children when a single daily dose is desired |
Widely studied in children, adolescents, and adults; often first‑line for many clinicians |
| Insurance/Cost |
Usually cheaper than Vyvanse; may be covered under generic‑methylphenidate formularies |
Generally more expensive, but some insurers cover it as a first‑line ADHD drug |
| Drug interactions |
Can interact with MAOIs, certain antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs), blood thinners, and stimulants |
Similar interactions, plus caution with other amphetamines, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and substances affecting serotonin |
| Other notes |
Because it’s taken at night, it may help with sleep‑related issues (e.g., nighttime racing thoughts) |
Because it’s taken in the morning, it’s more likely to cause daytime sleepiness if taken too late or if you’re a late‑night sleeper |