The company said the product -- approved earlier this year for children aged six to 12 years with ADHD -- is a prodrug stimulant that remains inactive until it is metabolized in the body, at which time the drug's active ingredient d-amphetamine is released.

Shire said its application is subject to a 10-month review by the Food and Drug Administration.

"ADHD is a treatable disorder that affects adults as well as children," said Shire CEO Matthew Emmens. "We are pleased with the results of Vyvanse studies conducted in adults and we believe this product will meet an important need in the adult ADHD marketplace."