Drug Class: CNS Stimulant

Table of Contents

vyvansevyvanse

Overview

Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine) is used in patients to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and in children (6 years old and older). It is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant medication. It may increase the ability to stop fidgeting, pay attention, and stay focused.

Doctors may also prescribe this medicine for other conditions as well, such as moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults.

This information is for educational purposes only. Not every known side effect, adverse effect, or drug interaction is in this database. If you have questions about your medicines, talk to your health care provider.

It works by helping change certain chemicals in the brain, which professionals refer to as “neurotransmitters.” It is not yet well-understood why changing these neurochemicals results in symptom relief for the conditions this drug is commonly prescribed for.

How to Take It

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Vyvanse should be taken in the morning with or without food.

Side Effects

Side effects that may occur while taking this medicine include:

  • dry mouth
  • loss of appetite
  • weight loss
  • feeling irritable
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • dizziness
  • sleep problems such as insomnia

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

  • chest pain
  • paranoia
  • erection that is painful or lasts 4 hours or longer
  • numbness
  • red, irritated eyes
  • unexplained wounds
  • skin color changes
  • muscle pain
  • hallucinations
  • puffiness or swelling of the eyelids

Warnings & Precautions

  • If you have serious side effects including chest, jaw or arm pain, difficulty breathing, seizures, or fainting, seek medical help immediately.
  • Vyvanse SHOULD NOT be taken by children with heart issues, including heart disease or an irregular heartbeat. It can cause stroke, heart attack and even sudden death.
  • DO NOT use this medicine if you have taken an MAO inhibitor over the past 2 weeks.
  • While taking Vyvanse, check your blood pressure regularly. This medication may elevate blood pressure.
  • DO NOT allow anyone else to use this medication that has been prescribed to you. Vyvanse may be habit-forming. It should never be used without a prescription.
  • Males taking Vyvanse may have experience erections that last longer than normal and occur more frequently.
  • For an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. For non emergencies, contact your local or regional poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

Drug Interactions

Before taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. This includes supplements and herbal products.

Dosage & Missed Dose

Follow your doctor’s instructions when taking this medication. Vyvanse may be taken with or without food. Your dose may be adjusted by your doctor, depending on your response to it. Vyvanse is available in capsule form in increments of 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg, and 70 mg.

A typical starting dose for adults is 30 mg every morning.

Children 6 to 12 years old may initially take 30 mg a day. This dosage may also be adjusted by your pediatrician, depending on how your child responds to it.

Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses or take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (preferably not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.

Pregnancy/Nursing

If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It is recommended that you DO NOT breast-feed while taking this medicine unless your doctor or pediatrician has told you to.

More Information

For more information, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or health care provider, or you can visit this website, https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a607047.html for additional information from the manufacturer of this drug.