Vyvanse
Vyvanse treats ADHD and BED, but carries high potential for abuse and addiction. Similar medications include Adderall, Concerta, and other brands of lisdexamfetamine.
Caution
Extreme Abuse Potential
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Uses
What Is Vyvanse?
Vyvanse, known generically as lisdexamfetamine, is a prescription medication classified as a central nervous system stimulant. It’s primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in both adults and children aged six and older. Vyvanse is also approved for the treatment of moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults. As a prodrug, Vyvanse is inactive until metabolized in the body, where it is converted into its active form, dextroamphetamine, which helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control.
What Is Vyvanse Used For?
Vyvanse is used to manage symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED). For individuals with ADHD, Vyvanse helps increase attention, focus, and reduce impulsive behaviors. In the case of BED, Vyvanse aids in decreasing the number of binge eating episodes. It is important to note that Vyvanse is not intended for weight loss or to treat obesity, and its use should be strictly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
How Does Vyvanse Work?
Vyvanse works by affecting the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine. As a prodrug, Vyvanse is converted into its active form, dextroamphetamine, once it is metabolized in the body. This conversion process allows for a gradual release of the medication, providing a steady therapeutic effect throughout the day. By increasing the availability of dopamine and norepinephrine, Vyvanse helps improve attention, focus, and impulse control in individuals with ADHD, and reduces binge eating episodes in those with BED.
Vyvanse Vs. Adderall
Vyvanse and Adderall are both stimulant medications used to treat ADHD, but they have some key differences. Vyvanse contains lisdexamfetamine, which is converted into dextroamphetamine in the body, providing a smoother and longer-lasting effect. Adderall, on the other hand, is a combination of amphetamine salts that includes both dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine, offering immediate and extended-release formulations. While Vyvanse is taken once daily and lasts up to 14 hours, Adderall’s immediate-release form requires multiple doses throughout the day, and its extended-release form lasts about 10 to 12 hours. Additionally, Vyvanse has a lower potential for abuse compared to Adderall, as it cannot be inhaled or injected.
Vyvanse Side Effects
Vyvanse can cause a range of both common and severe side effects, and it’s important to be aware of these potential effects to manage them effectively and seek medical advice when necessary. Below are the common and severe side effects associated with Vyvanse, as well as information on its potential to cause weight loss:
Common Side Effects
Decreased appetite
Dry mouth
Insomnia
Nausea
Vomiting
Stomach pain
Weight loss
Dizziness
Irritability
Anxiety
Severe Side Effects
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Hallucinations
Paranoia
Aggression
Severe anxiety or panic attacks
Numbness, pain, or discoloration in fingers or toes
Unexplained wounds on fingers or toes
If you experience any severe side effects, seek immediate medical attention and inform your doctor as soon as possible.
Can Vyvanse Cause Weight Loss?
Yes, Vyvanse can cause weight loss. As a central nervous system stimulant, it can suppress appetite and increase metabolism, leading to weight loss in some individuals. While this effect can be beneficial for those with binge eating disorder, it’s not recommended to use Vyvanse solely for weight loss due to potential health risks and the possibility of developing a dependence on the medication.
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Warnings
Habit-Forming Potential
Vyvanse has the potential to be habit-forming and is classified as a drug of abuse. It’s important to inform your doctor if you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse to ensure safe use of this medication.
Cardiovascular Risks
Stimulants like Vyvanse have been linked to serious cardiovascular events, including stroke, heart attack, and sudden death, especially in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or high blood pressure. Be sure to discuss any heart-related issues with your doctor before starting Vyvanse.
MAOI Interaction
Avoid using Vyvanse if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) within the past 14 days, as this can lead to dangerous interactions. Always inform your healthcare provider about any recent medications.
Mental Health Concerns
Vyvanse may exacerbate or cause new psychosis, particularly in individuals with a history of mental health disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, or other psychiatric conditions. Monitor for any unusual thoughts or behaviors and report them to your doctor immediately.
Circulation Issues
Vyvanse can cause blood circulation problems, leading to numbness, pain, or discoloration in the fingers or toes. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any unexplained wounds or changes in your extremities.
Before Taking
Allergies and MAOIs
Before starting Vyvanse, ensure you are not allergic to lisdexamfetamine or any of its components. Do not use Vyvanse if you have taken an MAOI in the past 14 days, as this can result in a dangerous drug interaction.
Heart and Blood Pressure
Inform your doctor if you have any heart problems, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease or sudden death. Stimulants can increase the risk of severe cardiovascular events, so it’s crucial to discuss these conditions with your healthcare provider.
Mental Health History
Disclose if you or your family have a history of mental health issues, such as depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, or suicidal thoughts. Vyvanse can worsen these conditions, so your doctor needs to be aware of your mental health history.
Other Health Conditions
Report any other health conditions to your doctor, including kidney disease, coronary artery disease, blood circulation problems, and any history of drug or alcohol addiction. These conditions can affect how Vyvanse works and its safety.
Medication Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Vyvanse and cause serotonin syndrome, a serious condition. Ensure your doctor is aware of all medications you are taking, including stimulants, opioids, herbal products, and treatments for depression, mental illness, Parkinson’s disease, migraines, serious infections, or nausea and vomiting.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Vyvanse’s effects on an unborn baby are not fully known, but taking it during pregnancy can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, withdrawal symptoms, and potential toxic effects in the newborn. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Lisdexamfetamine can pass into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby, so breastfeeding while using Vyvanse is not recommended.
Age Restrictions
Vyvanse is not approved for treating ADHD in children under 6 years old or binge eating disorder in individuals under 18 years old. Always follow your doctor’s guidance regarding age-appropriate use of this medication.
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Dosages
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Starting Dose: 30 mg once daily in the morning.
Incremental Increases: Increase by 10 mg or 20 mg weekly.
Maintenance Dose: 30 mg to 70 mg per day.
Maximum Dose: 70 mg per day.
Binge Eating Disorder (BED)
Starting Dose: 30 mg once daily in the morning.
Incremental Increases: Increase by 20 mg weekly.
Maintenance Dose: 50 mg to 70 mg per day.
Maximum Dose: 70 mg per day.
How to Take Vyvanse
Take Vyvanse exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Adhere to all directions on your prescription label, and do not take the medication in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Your doctor may adjust your dose occasionally to ensure optimal effectiveness.
Habit-Forming Potential
Vyvanse can be habit-forming, so it’s crucial never to share it with anyone, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Store the medication securely to prevent others from accessing it. Distributing or selling Vyvanse is illegal.
Administration Guidelines
You can take Vyvanse with or without food, but it is best to take it first thing in the morning to avoid potential insomnia.
Reading Instructions
Ensure you read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets provided with your medication. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Chewable Tablets
If you are prescribed the chewable tablet form of Vyvanse, make sure to chew the tablet thoroughly before swallowing.
Capsules
Do not crush, chew, break, or divide Vyvanse capsules. Swallow the capsule whole. If you have difficulty swallowing capsules, you can open the capsule and mix the contents with water, orange juice, or yogurt. Consume the mixture immediately and do not store it for later use.
Monitoring, Storage, and Disposal
While using Vyvanse, your doctor will need to monitor your progress through regular visits. Inform any healthcare provider treating you that you are taking this medication.
Storage
Store Vyvanse at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep track of your medication, as Vyvanse is a drug of abuse, and be vigilant if you suspect anyone is using your medication improperly or without a prescription.
Disposal
Dispose of any unused or expired Vyvanse in a sealed container or bag. Consult your pharmacist about community pharmaceutical take-back programs for safe disposal.
How Long Does Vyvanse Take to Work?
Vyvanse typically begins to work within 1.5 to 2 hours after ingestion. The medication is a prodrug, meaning it is inactive until metabolized in the body, where it is converted into its active form, dextroamphetamine. This conversion process allows Vyvanse to provide a gradual onset of effects, which helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control in individuals with ADHD. The time it takes for Vyvanse to start working can vary based on factors such as age, metabolism, and whether it is taken with food.
How Long Do the Effects of Vyvanse Last?
The effects of Vyvanse generally last between 10 to 14 hours. This extended duration helps maintain symptom control throughout the day, reducing the need for multiple doses. The peak effects are usually observed around 3.5 to 4.5 hours after taking the medication. However, individual responses can vary, and some people may experience the effects for a slightly shorter or longer period.
How Long Does Vyvanse Stay In Your System?
Vyvanse has a half-life of approximately 12 hours, meaning it takes about 12 hours for the concentration of the drug in the bloodstream to reduce by half. It typically takes around five half-lives for a drug to be eliminated from the body, so Vyvanse can stay in your system for about 60 hours, or roughly 2.5 days, after the last dose. Factors such as age, kidney function, and overall health can influence how quickly the drug is metabolized and excreted.
Interactions
When taking Vyvanse, it is important to be aware of potential interactions with other medications, drugs, and even certain foods and drinks. These interactions can affect how Vyvanse works and may increase the risk of side effects or reduce the medication’s effectiveness.
Medications to Avoid
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
MAOIs, such as selegiline and phenelzine, should not be taken with Vyvanse due to the risk of dangerously high blood pressure. These medications can interact severely with Vyvanse, leading to potentially life-threatening conditions.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with Vyvanse. This condition can cause symptoms such as confusion, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure.
Other Stimulants
Other stimulants, including medications for ADHD like Adderall, should be avoided to prevent excessive stimulation and cardiovascular issues. Combining multiple stimulants can lead to increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and other serious side effects.
Blood Pressure Medications
Medications that affect blood pressure, such as beta-blockers and certain antihypertensives, may require careful monitoring and dosage adjustments when taken with Vyvanse. These interactions can affect the effectiveness of both Vyvanse and the blood pressure medication.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid
Caffeine
Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, and energy drinks, can amplify the stimulant effects of Vyvanse, leading to increased heart rate and anxiety. It is advisable to limit or avoid caffeine intake while taking Vyvanse to prevent these side effects.
Acidic Foods and Drinks
Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and juices, can affect the absorption of Vyvanse, potentially reducing its effectiveness. It is best to consume these foods and drinks in moderation and not around the time you take your medication.
Vyvanse and Alcohol
Combining Vyvanse with alcohol is generally not recommended due to the potential risks involved. Vyvanse is a stimulant, while alcohol is a depressant, and their opposing effects can mask the signs of intoxication, leading to excessive alcohol consumption and an increased risk of alcohol poisoning.
Additionally, both substances can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous when combined. The stimulant effects of Vyvanse may also reduce the sedative effects of alcohol, leading to impaired judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. For these reasons, it is best to avoid alcohol while taking Vyvanse to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment.
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Overdose Potential
Vyvanse, like other stimulant medications, carries a risk of overdose, particularly when misused or taken in higher-than-prescribed doses. Symptoms of a Vyvanse overdose can range from mild to severe and may include agitation, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and hallucinations.
In extreme cases, an overdose can lead to life-threatening conditions such as seizures, heart attacks, or even coma. The risk of overdose is heightened when Vyvanse is combined with other substances, such as alcohol or other drugs, which can exacerbate its effects on the central nervous system. With these risks in mind, it’s crucial to use Vyvanse strictly as prescribed by a healthcare provider and to seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
Addiction Treatment
Is Vyvanse Addictive?
Yes, Vyvanse can be addictive. As a central nervous system stimulant, Vyvanse increases dopamine levels in the brain, which can lead to feelings of euphoria and heightened focus. These effects make it susceptible to misuse, especially among individuals seeking enhanced cognitive performance or recreational highs.
Over time, repeated use can result in tolerance, where higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect, and dependence, where the body requires the drug to function normally. This cycle can ultimately lead to addiction, characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite negative consequences.
Vyvanse Withdrawal
Vyvanse withdrawal occurs when someone who has been using the medication regularly stops taking it abruptly. Symptoms can begin within 24 to 36 hours after the last dose and may include extreme fatigue, depression, increased appetite, and intense cravings for the drug.
Other common withdrawal symptoms include irritability, anxiety, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. In severe cases, individuals might experience hallucinations or suicidal thoughts. To minimize these symptoms, it is recommended to taper off Vyvanse gradually under medical supervision rather than stopping suddenly. This approach helps the body adjust slowly, reducing the severity of withdrawal effects.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Vyvanse, also known as lisdexamfetamine, is a medication primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults. It works by affecting chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control, helping to increase attention, focus, and reduce impulsive behaviors. Vyvanse is a prodrug, meaning it is inactive until metabolized in the body, where it is converted into its active form, dextroamphetamine.
Yes, Vyvanse is classified as a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. It belongs to the class of drugs known as amphetamines, which work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play a key role in regulating attention, behavior, and mood, making Vyvanse effective in managing symptoms of ADHD and BED.
Vyvanse is a Schedule II controlled substance under the United States Controlled Substances Act. This classification indicates that while Vyvanse has accepted medical uses, it also has a high potential for abuse, which can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. Due to these risks, Vyvanse is prescribed and monitored carefully by healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective use.
The average dose of Vyvanse for adults typically starts at 30 mg once daily in the morning. Depending on the individual’s response and the severity of symptoms, the dose may be adjusted in increments of 10 mg or 20 mg per week. The maximum recommended dose is 70 mg per day. It is important to follow the prescribing doctor’s instructions and not to exceed the prescribed dose to avoid potential side effects and complications.
If your Vyvanse dose is too low, you may not experience adequate relief from your symptoms. Common signs that your dose might be insufficient include persistent difficulties with focus, attention, and impulse control, as well as feeling hyperactive or easily distracted. It is essential to communicate with your healthcare provider if you suspect your dose is too low, as they can adjust your medication to better manage your symptoms.
There is no exact conversion between Vyvanse and Adderall due to differences in their chemical composition and how they are metabolized in the body. However, it is generally estimated that 40 mg of Vyvanse is roughly equivalent to 12-15 mg of Adderall. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for precise dosing and to ensure safe and effective treatment when switching between these medications.
Concerta and Vyvanse are both stimulant medications used to treat ADHD, but they differ in their active ingredients and release mechanisms. Concerta contains methylphenidate and uses an extended-release system to provide a steady release of medication throughout the day. Vyvanse, on the other hand, contains lisdexamfetamine, which is a prodrug converted to dextroamphetamine in the body. While both medications are effective for ADHD, individual responses can vary, and a healthcare provider can help determine which medication is best suited for a patient’s needs.