Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine)

What is Vyvanse?

Vyvanse® (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) is a central nervous system stimulant prescribed to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and moderate to severe Binge Eating Disorder (BED). It is a prodrug, meaning it becomes active only after the body metabolizes it, resulting in smoother onset and longer-lasting effects than some other stimulant medications. Vyvanse is FDA-approved and widely used for both children and adults.

What Does Vyvanse Help With?

Vyvanse is FDA-approved to treat the following conditions:

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

• Improves focus, attention span, and impulse control
• Reduces hyperactivity and distractibility
• Used in children ages 6 and up, as well as adults

Moderate to Severe Binge Eating Disorder (BED)

• Decreases the number of binge eating episodes
• Helps control compulsive eating behaviors
• Approved for adult patients only

How Should I Take Vyvanse?

Vyvanse should be taken once daily in the morning, as taking it later in the day may interfere with sleep.

ADHD Dosage (Ages 6 and Up):

Starting Dose: 30 mg once daily
Titration: Increase by 10 mg or 20 mg at weekly intervals
Recommended Dose: 30–70 mg per day
Maximum Dose: 70 mg per day

BED Dosage (Adults Only):

Starting Dose: 30 mg once daily
Titration: Increase by 20 mg weekly
Recommended Dose: 50–70 mg per day
Maximum Dose: 70 mg per day

Special Instructions:

• Patients with severe kidney impairment: Max dose is 50 mg/day
• Patients with end-stage renal disease: Max dose is 30 mg/day
• Always consult your doctor before adjusting your dose

Vyvanse Forms and How to Take Them

Vyvanse is available in both capsule and chewable tablet forms, with strengths ranging from 10 mg to 70 mg. For individuals who have difficulty swallowing capsules, they can be opened and mixed with yogurt, water, or orange juice. The mixture should be stirred until well blended and consumed immediately—it should not be stored for later use. It’s important to note that a single capsule should not be divided or taken in partial doses, as this may affect the medication’s effectiveness and safety.

How Long Does Vyvanse Take to Work?

Vyvanse typically begins to work within 1 to 2 hours after taking it, with effects lasting up to 14 hours. Because it’s a prodrug, its onset is more gradual, reducing the likelihood of a “crash” at the end of the day, which can occur with shorter-acting stimulants.

Common Side Effects of Vyvanse

While Vyvanse is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects, especially during the first few weeks of treatment:

Common Side Effects:

• Decreased appetite – 8%
• Dry mouth – 36%
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia) – 20%
• Irritability or anxiety – 5%
• Nausea or stomach discomfort – 4%
• Increased heart rate – 7%

Most side effects are mild to moderate and may lessen over time. If side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

What Should I Avoid While Taking Vyvanse?

It’s best to avoid taking Vyvanse in the afternoon or evening, as it can cause insomnia due to its long-lasting stimulant effects. You should also limit your intake of caffeine, as excessive amounts may lead to increased anxiety, jitteriness, or a rapid heartbeat. Additionally, do not take other stimulants or over-the-counter decongestants without first consulting your doctor, as these can interact with Vyvanse and potentially increase the risk of side effects.

Drug Interactions and Warnings

Vyvanse may interact with other medications or health conditions. Be sure to tell your doctor if you:

• Have a history of heart problems, high blood pressure, or mental health conditions
• Take monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken them in the last 14 days
• Are taking antidepressants, antipsychotics, or medications that affect blood pressure or heart rhythm

Before starting Vyvanse, your doctor will usually assess your heart health, especially if there’s a family history of cardiac issues.

Is Vyvanse Addictive?

Vyvanse is a Schedule II controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence. However, when taken as prescribed under medical supervision, it is considered safe and effective for managing ADHD and BED. It is less likely to be misused compared to other stimulants because of its gradual onset and the fact that it must be metabolized in the body to become active.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vyvanse

How long does Vyvanse stay in your system?

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a long-acting stimulant with effects that typically last 10 to 14 hours after a single dose. However, the drug itself remains in your system longer. Vyvanse is a prodrug, meaning it becomes active only after the body metabolizes it into dextroamphetamine. The half-life of dextroamphetamine is about 10 to 13 hours, and it may take approximately 2 to 3 days for most of the drug to be eliminated from your body. This timeline may vary depending on individual factors such as age, metabolism, kidney function, and dosage.

Can you take Vyvanse while pregnant?

Vyvanse is classified as a pregnancy Category C medication, which means that risk to the fetus cannot be ruled out. There are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women, but animal studies have shown adverse effects on fetal development. Vyvanse should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. Together, you can determine whether continuing Vyvanse is appropriate or if an alternative treatment should be considered.

Can you drink on Vyvanse?

It is generally not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Vyvanse. Both Vyvanse and alcohol affect the central nervous system, and using them together can lead to increased side effects such as anxiety, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, and impaired judgment. Additionally, alcohol may mask the effects of Vyvanse or interfere with its ability to manage symptoms of ADHD or binge eating disorder. If you do choose to drink alcohol, it’s important to do so cautiously and only after discussing it with your prescribing doctor.

Can you overdose on Vyvanse?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on Vyvanse, and doing so can be dangerous or even life-threatening. Symptoms of overdose may include restlessness, tremors, rapid breathing, confusion, panic, hallucinations, fever, muscle pain, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, and seizures. In severe cases, overdose can lead to coma or death. If you suspect an overdose, it is critical to seek emergency medical attention immediately or contact the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222. Always take Vyvanse exactly as prescribed and never exceed your recommended dose.

How to get prescribed Vyvanse?

To get prescribed Vyvanse, you will need to schedule an appointment with a licensed healthcare provider, such as a psychiatrist, primary care physician, or nurse practitioner. The provider will perform a thorough evaluation, which may include discussing your symptoms, medical history, and possibly using diagnostic questionnaires. Vyvanse is a Schedule II controlled substance due to its potential for misuse, so it requires a legitimate diagnosis such as ADHD or moderate to severe binge eating disorder to be prescribed. If deemed appropriate, your provider will start you on a safe dose and monitor your response through follow-up appointments.

Does Vyvanse cause hair loss?

Hair loss is not a common side effect of Vyvanse, but some individuals have reported it anecdotally. While it is not officially listed among the drug’s frequent side effects, stress, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, or even individual reactions to stimulants may contribute to hair shedding in some users. If you experience unexplained hair loss while taking Vyvanse, it’s important to consult your doctor. They may evaluate other possible causes or consider adjusting your dosage or trying an alternative treatment.

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