Vyvanse 60mg side effects
What are Common Vyvanse® Side Effects? For Adult ADHD
MEDICATION GUIDE
(lisdexamfetamine dimesylate)
Capsules and Chewable Tablets, CII
What is the most important information I should know about VYVANSE?
VYVANSE may cause serious side effects, including:
- Abuse and dependence. VYVANSE, other amphetamine containing medicines, and methylphenidate have a high chance for abuse and may cause physical and psychological dependence. Your healthcare provider should check you or your child for signs of abuse and dependence before and during treatment with VYVANSE.
- Tell your healthcare provider if you or your child have ever abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines, or street drugs.
- Your healthcare provider can tell you more about the differences between physical and psychological dependence and drug addiction.
- Heart-related problems including:
- sudden death, stroke, and heart attack in adults
- sudden death in children who have heart problems or heart defects
- increased blood pressure and heart rate
Your healthcare provider should check you or your child carefully for heart problems before starting treatment with VYVANSE. Tell your healthcare provider if you or your child have any heart problems, heart defects, high blood pressure, or a family history of these problems.
Your healthcare provider should check your or your child’s blood pressure and heart rate regularly during treatment with VYVANSE.
Call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away if you or your child have any signs of heart problems such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting during treatment with VYVANSE.
- Mental (psychiatric) problems, including:
- new or worse behavior and thought problems
- new or worse bipolar illness
- new psychotic symptoms (such as hearing voices, or seeing or believing things that are not real) or new manic symptoms
Tell your healthcare provider about any mental problems you or your child have or about a family history of suicide, bipolar illness, or depression.
Call your healthcare provider right away if you or your child have any new or worsening mental symptoms or problems during treatment with VYVANSE, especially hearing voices, seeing or believing things that are not real, or new manic symptoms.
What Is VYVANSE?
VYVANSE is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant prescription medicine used for the treatment of:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults and children 6 years of age and older. VYVANSE may help increase attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in people with ADHD.
- Moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults. VYVANSE may help reduce the number of binge eating days in people with BED.
VYVANSE is not for use in children under 6 years of age with ADHD.
VYVANSE is not for weight loss. It is not known if VYVANSE is safe and effective for the treatment of obesity.
It is not known if VYVANSE is safe and effective for use in children with BED.
VYVANSE is a federally controlled substance (CII) because it contains lisdexamfetamine dimesylate that can be a target for people who abuse prescription medicines or street drugs. Keep VYVANSE in a safe place to protect it from theft. Never give your VYVANSE to anyone else because it may cause death or harm them. Selling or giving away VYVANSE may harm others and is against the law.
Do not take VYVANSE if you or your child are:
- allergic to amphetamine products or any of the ingredients in VYVANSE. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in VYVANSE.
- taking, or have stopped taking in the last 14 days, a medicine called a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI).
- being treated with the antibiotic linezolid or intravenous methylene blue.
Before taking VYVANSE, tell your healthcare provider about all medical conditions, including if you or your child:
- have heart problems, heart defects, or high blood pressure
- have mental problems including psychosis, mania, bipolar illness, or depression or have a family history of suicide, bipolar illness, or depression
- have circulation problems in fingers and toes
- are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. VYVANSE may harm the unborn baby.
- There is a pregnancy registry for females who are exposed to VYVANSE during pregnancy. The purpose of the registry is to collect information about the health of females exposed to VYVANSE and their baby. If you or your child becomes pregnant during treatment with VYVANSE, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for Psychostimulants at 1-866-961-2388 or visit online at https://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/adhd-medications/.
- are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. VYVANSE passes into breast milk. You should not breastfeed during treatment with VYVANSE. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed the baby during treatment with VYVANSE.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines that you or your child take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
VYVANSE can affect the way other medicines work and other medicines may affect how VYVANSE works. Taking VYVANSE with other medicines can cause serious side effects. Sometimes the doses of other medicines will need to be changed while taking VYVANSE.
Especially tell your healthcare provider if you or your child take:
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) | serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) |
medicines used to treat migraine headaches called triptans | tricyclic antidepressants |
lithium | fentanyl |
tramadol | tryptophan |
buspirone | St. John’s Wort |
Keep a list of all medicines to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. Your healthcare provider will decide if VYVANSE can be taken with other medicines.
Do not start any new medicine during treatment with VYVANSE without talking to your healthcare provider first.
How should VYVANSE be taken?
- Take VYVANSE exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Your healthcare provider may change the dose if needed.
- Take VYVANSE 1 time each day in the morning with or without food.
- Your healthcare provider may sometimes stop VYVANSE treatment for a while to check ADHD or BED symptoms.
- VYVANSE comes in capsules or chewable tablets.
Taking VYVANSE Capsules:
- VYVANSE capsules may be swallowed whole.
- If VYVANSE capsules cannot be swallowed whole, the capsule may be opened and the entire contents sprinkled onto yogurt, or poured into water or orange juice.
- Using a spoon, break apart any powder that is stuck together. Stir the VYVANSE powder and yogurt, water, or orange juice until they are completely mixed together.
- Swallow all the yogurt, water, or orange juice mixture right away. Do not store the yogurt, water, or orange juice mixture.
- It is normal to see a filmy coating on the inside of your glass or container after you eat or drink all the VYVANSE mixture.
Taking VYVANSE Chewable Tablets:
- Chew VYVANSE tablets completely before swallowing.
If you or your child take too much VYVANSE, call your healthcare provider or poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.
What should I avoid while taking VYVANSE?
Do not drive, operate machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how VYVANSE affects you.
What are possible side effects of VYVANSE?
VYVANSE may cause serious side effects, including:
- See "What is the most important information I should know about VYVANSE?"
- Slowing of growth (height and weight) in children. Children should have their height and weight checked often during treatment with VYVANSE. VYVANSE treatment may be stopped if your child is not growing or gaining weight.
- Circulation problems in fingers and toes (Peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon). Signs and symptoms may include:
- Fingers or toes may feel numb, cool, painful
- Fingers or toes may change color from pale, to blue, to red
Tell your healthcare provider if you or your child have numbness, pain, skin color change, or sensitivity to temperature in your fingers or toes.
Call your healthcare provider right away if you or your child have any signs of unexplained wounds appearing on fingers or toes during treatment with VYVANSE.
- Serotonin Syndrome. A potentially life-threatening problem called serotonin syndrome may happen when VYVANSE is taken with certain other medicines. Stop taking VYVANSE and call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away if you or your child develop any of the following signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome:
agitation | fast heartbeat |
flushing | seizures |
coma | sweating |
loss of coordination | confusion |
dizziness | tremors, stiff muscles, or muscle twitching |
seeing or hearing things that are not real (hallucination) | changes in blood pressure |
high body temperature (hyperthermia) | nausea, vomiting, diarrhea |
The most common side effects of VYVANSE in children 6 to 17 years old and adults with ADHD include:
loss of appetite (anorexia) | anxiety |
decreased appetite | weight loss |
diarrhea | dizziness |
dry mouth | irritability |
trouble sleeping | nausea |
stomach pain | vomiting |
The most common side effects of VYVANSE in adults with BED include:
dry mouth | trouble sleeping |
decreased appetite | increased heart rate |
constipation | feeling jittery |
anxiety |
These are not all the possible side effects of VYVANSE.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
How should I store VYVANSE?
- Store VYVANSE in a safe place (like a locked cabinet) and in a tightly closed container at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
- Protect VYVANSE from light.
- Dispose of remaining, unused, or expired VYVANSE by a medicine take-back program at authorized collection sites such as retail pharmacies, hospital or clinic pharmacies, and law enforcement locations. If no take-back program or authorized collector is available, mix VYVANSE with an undesirable, nontoxic substance such as dirt, cat litter, or used coffee grounds to make it less appealing to children and pets. Place the mixture in a container such as a sealed plastic bag and throw away (discard) VYVANSE in the household trash.
Keep VYVANSE and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of VYVANSE.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use VYVANSE for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give VYVANSE to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them and it is against the law. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about VYVANSE that is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in VYVANSE?
Active Ingredient: lisdexamfetamine dimesylate
Capsule Inactive Ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, and magnesium stearate. The capsule shells (imprinted with S489) contain gelatin, titanium dioxide, and one or more of the following: FD&C Red #3, FD&C Yellow #6, FD&C Blue #1, Black Iron Oxide, and Yellow Iron Oxide.
Chewable Tablet Inactive Ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, guar gum, magnesium stearate, mannitol, microcrystalline cellulose, sucralose, artificial strawberry flavor.
Distributed by: Takeda Pharmaceuticals America, Inc., Lexington, MA 02421.
VYVANSE® and the VYVANSE Logo® are registered trademarks of Takeda Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc.
©2022 Takeda Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc. All rights reserved.
For more information, go to www.vyvanse.com or call 1-877-TAKEDA-7 (1-877-825-3327).
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Revised: 10/2021
SPI-0340 Reformatted for US-LIS-1284
Side effects and what to do about them
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a prescription brand-name medication. It’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This condition makes it hard to focus on tasks and control your attention. To treat ADHD, Vyvanse can be taken by adults as well as children ages 6 years and older.
Vyvanse is also prescribed to treat moderate to severe binge eating disorder in adults. This condition involves periods of excessive overeating.
Here are some fast facts on Vyvanse:*
- Active ingredient: lisdexamfetamine
- Drug class: central nervous system stimulant
- Drug forms:
- oral capsule
- oral chewable tablet
Like other drugs, Vyvanse can cause side effects. Read on to learn about potential common, mild, and serious side effects. For a general overview of Vyvanse, including details about its uses, see this article.
* Vyvanse is not approved to be used for weight loss or to treat obesity.
Vyvanse can cause certain side effects, some of which are more common than others. These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days or weeks. But if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Vyvanse in clinical studies. These side effects can vary depending on which condition the drug is being used to treat.
More common side effects in people taking Vyvanse for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) include:
- loss of appetite or decreased appetite
- anxiety
- weight loss
- diarrhea
- dizziness
- insomnia (trouble sleeping)
More common side effects in adults taking Vyvanse for binge eating disorder include:
- dry mouth
- insomnia
- decreased appetite
- increased heart rate
- constipation
Mild side effects can occur with Vyvanse use. This list doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Vyvanse’s medication guide.
Mild side effects that have been reported with Vyvanse include:
- loss of appetite or decreased appetite
- dry mouth
- anxiety
- abdominal (belly) pain
- increased heart rate
- constipation
- diarrhea
- irritability
- dizziness
- feeling jittery
- headache*
- nausea and vomiting
- weight loss
- sleep problems*
These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days or weeks. But if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks side effects of the medication. If you develop a side effect while taking Vyvanse and want to tell the FDA about it, visit MedWatch.
* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.
Vyvanse may cause serious side effects. The list below may not include all possible serious side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Vyvanse’s medication guide.
If you develop serious side effects while taking Vyvanse, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
Serious side effects that have been reported and their symptoms include:
- Cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) problems, including increased blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. Symptoms can include:
- chest pain
- cold sweat
- dizziness
- fainting
- nausea and vomiting
- severe pain or tightness in your arm, throat, neck, or jaw
- shortness of breath
- sudden numbness or weakness in one arm
- trouble speaking or slurred speech
- Blood circulation problems in your fingers and toes, including Raynaud’s disease. Symptoms can include:
- fingers or toes that look blue, pale, purple, or red
- cold, numb, or painful fingers or toes
- unexplained wounds on your fingers or toes
- Serotonin syndrome (a dangerous condition caused by high levels of the brain chemical serotonin). Symptoms can include:
- agitation
- increased heart rate
- flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)
- hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t really there)
- loss of coordination
- seizures
- tremors (shaking) or twitching
- Risk of misuse and dependence. *†
- Mental health side effects, such as depression.†
- Slowed growth in children.‡
- Allergic reaction.†
* Vyvanse has a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
† For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.
‡ For more information about this side effect, see “Side effects of Vyvanse in children vs. adults” below.
Side effects of Vyvanse are usually the same in both females* and males.* There aren’t any side effects that are known to occur only in either sex.
Vyvanse can have harmful effects if taken during pregnancy, however. For more information, see the “Precautions for Vyvanse” section below.
Your doctor can answer any questions you have about your risk for side effects from Vyvanse.
* Sex and gender exist on spectrums. Use of the terms “female” and “male” in this article refers to sex assigned at birth.
If you’re prescribed Vyvanse and you have side effects, you may be wondering how long Vyvanse side effects last.
Most side effects caused by Vyvanse go away within a few days or weeks of taking the drug. Rarely, Vyvanse can cause side effects that last longer or that cause long-term problems. These effects can include:
- cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) problems, including increased blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke*
- blood circulation problems in your fingers and toes, including Raynaud’s disease*
- slowed growth in children†
If you have questions about long-term side effects from Vyvanse, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
* See “Serious side effects of Vyvanse” above for symptoms of this side effect.
† See “Side effects of Vyvanse in children vs. adults” below for details.
Vyvanse is approved to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and in children ages 6 years and older. Children may be more likely to experience certain side effects than adults, including:
- weight loss
- decreased appetite
- insomnia (trouble sleeping)
- upper respiratory infections
- irritability
In addition, children ages 6 to 12 years old reported emotional changes or mood changes in clinical studies of Vyvanse. These changes may have included uncontrollable crying or laughing at inappropriate times. This side effect wasn’t reported in adults taking the drug, or in adolescents ages 13 to 17 years old.
Also, Vyvanse can rarely cause slowed growth in children. Your child’s doctor will closely monitor your child’s height and weight and compare it to average growth rates for your child’s age. The doctor may temporarily or permanently have your child stop taking Vyvanse if your child shows signs of slowed growth.
If you have questions about Vyvanse’s side effects in children, talk with your child’s doctor or with a pharmacist.
Vyvanse may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drug’s side effects and their answers.
Do Vyvanse’s side effects vary based on the strength I’m taking?
Yes, some side effects can vary based on which strength of Vyvanse you’re taking.
For example, higher doses in children ages 6 to 12 years old caused more weight loss in clinical studies. These doses included 70 milligrams (mg), 50 mg, and 30 mg. (In studies, a 60-mg dose wasn’t studied.)
But most side effects didn’t vary depending on which strength people took in studies.
Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you more about what to expect when taking Vyvanse.
Is anger a side effect of Vyvanse?
Anger wasn’t reported as a side effect by people taking Vyvanse in clinical studies. Irritability was a commonly reported side effect, though. Sometimes irritability can lead to anger.
Also, it’s important to note that anger was a rare withdrawal side effect in children ages 6 to 12 years old. Withdrawal refers to effects that occur after stopping a drug that your body has become dependent on. Vyvanse has a boxed warning about dependence. For more information, see “Side effect specifics” below.
Learn more about some of the side effects that Vyvanse may cause.
Mental health side effects
Rarely, Vyvanse can cause side effects that affect mental health. These can include:
- worsening of existing psychosis (loss of touch with reality)
- an episode of mania (high energy or excitement) in people with bipolar disorder
- new psychosis or mania in people who don’t have a history of these conditions
Symptoms of these side effects can include:
- delusions (believing things that aren’t true)
- hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t really there)
- impulsive behaviors (doing things without thinking about them first, which can be dangerous)
- paranoia
- racing thoughts
- insomnia (trouble sleeping)
In rare cases, depression can also be a side effect of Vyvanse treatment. This occurred in adults in clinical studies. Depression has also been reported as a side effect since Vyvanse was approved. Symptoms of depression may include:
- changes in appetite
- sleeping too much or too little
- agitation and restlessness
- feelings of worthlessness or guilt
What you can do
Before you begin treatment with Vyvanse, you and your doctor will discuss your risk factors for mental health side effects.
It’s very important that you tell your doctor about any past depression, bipolar disorder, or suicidal thoughts or actions you’ve experienced. Also tell them about any history of these conditions in your family. This helps your doctor determine whether Vyvanse is safe for you to take.
If you have any symptoms of mental health side effects, contact your doctor right away. They may have you stop taking Vyvanse and may recommend a different treatment.
Headache
Headaches are a possible side effect of Vyvanse. This is a common side effect of stimulant drugs such as Vyvanse.
What you can do
If your doctor advises that this is safe for you, taking over-the-counter medications can help relieve headaches. These medications may include Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen).
For headaches that are severe or bothersome, talk with your doctor. They may recommend other treatments.
Sleep problems
Taking Vyvanse can cause insomnia. This refers to trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. This was a common side effect reported by people taking Vyvanse in clinical studies.
What you can do
You’ll typically take Vyvanse in the morning to lower the risk of sleep problems. Taking your dose in the afternoon could cause trouble falling asleep. Make sure to take Vyvanse as prescribed by your doctor.
If you take Vyvanse in the morning and you’re having trouble sleeping, talk with your doctor. They may recommend a treatment to help you sleep better, such as taking a medication to help you sleep. Or they may have you stop taking Vyvanse and switch to a different drug.
Risk of misuse and dependence
Vyvanse has a boxed warning about risk of misuse and dependence. This is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Taking Vyvanse can cause physical and psychological dependence. With physical dependence, the body becomes used to the drug and needs it in order to function as you usually do. With psychological dependence, you feel that you’re unable to stop using a drug.
Misusing Vyvanse makes it more likely that you’ll become dependent. Misuse (sometimes called abuse) means taking a drug in a way other than how your doctor prescribes. This includes taking a medication for non-medical purposes.
Misuse of Vyvanse can cause serious side effects. These include cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) problems such as a heart attack. Rarely, Vyvanse misuse can cause death.
What you can do
Before prescribing Vyvanse, you and your doctor will discuss your risk for misuse and dependence. They’ll monitor you for symptoms of misuse and dependence while you’re taking Vyvanse. These include:
- aggressive or hostile behavior
- coordination problems
- dilated pupils (the black part of your eye being larger than usual)
- excessive sweating
- hyperactivity or restlessness
- thoughts of harming yourself or others
You could consider asking someone (such as a family member or friend) to help watch for serious side effects of Vyvanse. This would include the above signs misuse and dependence, as well as other side effects listed above in the “Serious side effects” section. Your doctor can help with this, if you want.
Due to Vyvanse’s risk of dependence, it’s important that you do not stop taking the drug unless your doctor specifically tells you to. Suddenly stopping Vyvanse could cause withdrawal symptoms. These can include fatigue (low energy) and depression.
If you and your doctor agree you should stop taking Vyvanse, your doctor will help you safely stop treatment.
If you have any thoughts about harming yourself or others while taking Vyvanse or after stopping the drug, make sure to contact your doctor right away. If you feel like it’s an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Allergic reaction
As with most drugs, Vyvanse can cause an allergic reaction in some people.
Symptoms can be mild or serious and can include:
- skin rash
- itching
- flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)
- swelling under your skin, typically in your lips, eyelids, feet, or hands
- swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe
What you can do
For mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your doctor right away. They may recommend ways to ease your symptoms and determine whether you should keep taking Vyvanse. But if your symptoms are serious and you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
Suicide prevention
If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:
- Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
- Listen to the person without judgment.
- Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
- Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
- Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.
Click here for more links and local resources.
Before beginning treatment with Vyvanse, there are important precautions to consider.
Boxed warning: Risk of misuse and dependence
This drug has a boxed warning about risk of misuse and dependence. This is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For details, see the “Side effect specifics” section above.
Other precautions
Be sure to talk with your doctor about your health history before you take Vyvanse. This drug may not be the right treatment for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. The conditions and factors to consider include:
Heart problems, including high blood pressure. If you have a serious heart condition, you should not take Vyvanse. These conditions include a heart defect, irregular heartbeat, or coronary artery disease.
Vyvanse can cause serious cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) side effects that can be fatal in rare cases. These side effects include heart attack, stroke, and cardiac arrest (when the heart stops beating).
If you have a heart problem, you’re at higher risk for these serious side effects. Before treatment, your doctor will check your heart health to see if Vyvanse is safe for you to take.
High blood pressure. Vyvanse can raise your blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, your doctor will monitor your treatment to see if it’s safe for you to take Vyvanse.
Mental health condition. Vyvanse can cause symptoms of existing mental health conditions to get worse. These conditions include psychosis and mania. If you have a mental health condition, or if your family has as history of psychosis or mania, Vyvanse may not be safe for you to take. Be sure to talk about your complete personal and family mental health history before you start taking Vyvanse.
Circulation (blood flow) problems in your fingers and toes. Taking Vyvanse can cause circulation problems, including Raynaud’s disease. If you already have circulation problems, Vyvanse could worsen your symptoms. Your doctor can help determine whether Vyvanse is safe for you to take.
Kidney problems. If you have problems with your kidneys, your body may not get rid of Vyvanse as well as usual. This can cause the drug to build up in your body, which can increase your risk of side effects. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dosage of Vyvanse than usual for you.
Allergic reaction. You shouldn’t take Vyvanse if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to Vyvanse or any of its ingredients. Talk with your doctor about which other treatments are better choices for you.
Alcohol use with Vyvanse
You should avoid drinking alcohol while you’re taking Vyvanse. This is because Vyvanse can mask the effects of alcohol in your body, which can make it hard for to know how much you’ve had to drink.
People who have misused or become dependent on alcohol are also at higher risk for misusing or becoming dependent on Vyvanse. Make sure your doctor is aware of any history you have of misuse or dependence.
Alcohol can also make certain Vyvanse side effects worse. These include nausea, diarrhea, and dizziness.
If you drink alcohol, talk with your doctor about whether it’s safe for you to drink while taking Vyvanse.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Vyvanse
It’s not known whether it’s safe to use Vyvanse while pregnant. But Vyvanse may increase the risk of problems if taken during pregnancy. If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor before you start taking Vyvanse.
It’s not recommended to breastfeed while taking Vyvanse. Vyvanse can cause serious side effects in a breastfed child. Talk with your doctor about safe options for feeding your child if you’re taking Vyvanse.
Vyvanse has a boxed warning about risk of misuse and dependence. This is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Misuse means taking a drug in a way other than how your doctor prescribes.
Because of this risk, Vyvanse is a controlled substance. This means the drug is regulated by the government because it can cause misuse, dependence, or withdrawal.
For details about Vyvanse misuse, see the “Side effects specifics” section above.
Side effects from Vyvanse are typically mild. Most go away with time and don’t require medical attention. Serious side effects are also possible, and you should talk with your doctor if you have any symptoms of a serious side effect.
If you’d like to learn more about Vyvanse, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help answer any questions you have about side effects from taking the drug.
Besides talking with your doctor, you can do some research on your own. These articles might help:
- More information on Vyvanse. For details on other aspects of Vyvanse, refer to this article.
- Drug comparison. To learn how Vyvanse compares with other drugs, see the following articles:
- Strattera vs. Vyvanse
- Concerta vs. Vyvanse
- Vyvanse vs. Ritalin
- A look at your condition. For details on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, see our list of ADHD articles. For more information on binge eating disorder, see this list of related articles. Our mental health hub may also be helpful.
Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
Vivanse Side Effects: What You Need to Know
Although not common, Vivanse can cause long-term side effects. This includes side effects that may persist even after the end of treatment, or side effects that occur after taking the drug for a long time.
If you have any questions about possible long-term side effects of Vivanse, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Vyvanse is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children 6 years of age and older. Children may be more prone to certain side effects than adults.
Studies have also reported sudden changes in emotion or mood in children aged 6 to 12 years who took Vivanse. Examples of these types of changes may include uncontrollable crying or laughing at inappropriate times. Emotional or mood changes have not been reported in people aged 13 years and older who took Vivanse during the studies.
Vivanse may cause growth retardation (height and weight) in children. Your child's doctor will closely monitor their height and weight and compare them to the average height for your child's age. If they notice signs of growth retardation, your child's doctor may temporarily or permanently stop taking Vivanse.
If you have any questions about Vivanse side effects in children, talk to your child's doctor or pharmacist.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vivanse Side Effects
Get answers to some frequently asked questions about Vivanse side effects.
Can Vivanse's side effects vary depending on the strength of my dose (10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg, 50mg, 60mg, 70mg)?
It is possible. For example, studies have shown that weight loss is more likely at higher doses of Vivanse.
These studies did not always compare side effects at different dosages of Vivanse, so it is not known if other side effects may differ depending on the dosage.
If you experience side effects from taking Vivanse, lowering the dose may help reduce the side effect. But you should not change your dose of Vivanse unless your doctor tells you to do so. Always take Vivanse exactly as directed by your doctor.
If you have any other questions about how your dose may affect the risk of side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Does Vyvanse cause anger or other emotional side effects?
Yes, Vivanse can cause emotional side effects, including anger.
People who took Vivanse reported certain emotional side effects in studies, including:
- anger
- depression*
- irritability
- extreme excitement and energy)
- mood changes
If you are concerned about the emotional side effects of Vivanse, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can discuss how to treat these side effects.
How long do the side effects of Vivance last?
In many cases, the side effects caused by Vivanse are supposed to be temporary. And mild side effects often go away on their own or are easy to treat.
But if you have any symptoms that persist or bother you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They may suggest stopping Vivanse treatment and switching to another drug.
Side effects explained
Find out more about some of the side effects Vivanse may cause.
Sleep problems
Sleep problems may occur during treatment with Vyvance. Sleep problems reported in studies of the drug included insomnia (trouble sleeping) and nightmares. Insomnia was one of the most common side effects of Vivanse's drug. In rare cases, people have stopped taking Vivanse due to insomnia.
Insomnia has been more common in adults in studies, but has also been reported in children treated with Vivanse.
It is important to note that sleep problems can also be a symptom of serious side effects that Vivanse can cause. Examples of these serious side effects include psychiatric disorders such as mania, depression and psychosis.
What can help
Vyvanse is a central nervous system stimulant that may keep you awake if taken later in the day. To prevent sleep problems such as insomnia, avoid taking your dose in the afternoon while taking Vivanse. Instead, take Vivanse in the morning.
If you have trouble sleeping while taking Vivanse, talk to your doctor. They may offer treatment for this side effect, which may include new prescription or over-the-counter medications. Or they may force you to stop taking Vivanse and switch to another treatment for your condition.
Headache
Some people may experience headaches during treatment with Vivanse. This side effect has been rare in studies, but some people have stopped taking Vivanse due to headaches.
What can help
Vivanse headaches can go away on their own. But if you experience headaches that bother you or don't go away, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They may suggest treatment for this side effect, such as a new prescription or over-the-counter drug. Or they may suggest that you stop taking Vivanse and try another treatment for your condition.
Depression
In some cases, depression may occur when using Vivanse. Studies have reported depression in people taking Vivanse, but this was not common.
Symptoms of depression may include:
- changes in appetite
- feelings of agitation or anxiety
- feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- loss of interest in activities you normally enjoy
- help you sleep too much or too little What can be done
- aggressive or hostile behavior
- excessive sweating
- heavy breathing
- high blood pressure
- sleep problems, including insomnia
- Thoughts of hurting yourself or others
- skin rash
- itching
- redness (temporary warmth, redness, or increased skin color)
- swelling under the skin, usually on the eyelids, lips, arms, or legs
- swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat that makes breathing difficult
- what dose of the drug you were taking when you had the side effect
- how soon after starting this dose you had the side effect
- what were your symptoms due to for a side effect
- how it affected your daily activities
- what other medications you also took
- any other information you think is important
- What are the side effects of Vivanse compared to other medicines that might help my condition?
- Can Vivanse cause sexual side effects?
- If I get side effects while taking Vivanse, will a lower dose help?
- severe fatigue (low energy)
- depression
- severe cravings
- mood changes
- chills
- Under 6 years of age
- Sensitivity or allergy to other stimulant drugs
- Have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitory drugs (MAOIs) or have taken an MAOI within the last 14 days.
- Anxiety
- Decreased appetite
- Dry mouth
- Problems with sleep
- Izelity
- Pain in the upper stomach
- Dizziness
- LAST 9003 binge eaters who take Vyvanse may also experience:
- Constipation
- Increased heart rate
Vyvanse may be less likely to cause brain fog than other ADHD medications, and in the form of delayed-release capsules, Vyvanse may effectively improve concentration attention throughout the day. Persistent or worsening side effects may require a different dosage or medication change.
Interactions
There are many drug interactions with Vyvanse. Some of the more dangerous Vyvanse interactions include:
- MAOIs such as tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid, and selegiline.
- Some antidepressants such as SSRIs, SNRIs and tricyclic antidepressants.
- CYP2D6 inhibitors such as paroxetine, ritonavir and quinidine
- Alkalizing agents such as acetazolamide
- Acidifying agents such as ammonium chloride.
Vyvanse, like other ADHD medications, is generally advised to be avoided with alcohol. . Combining Vyvanse and alcohol may increase the risk of side effects. Vyvans is a stimulant and alcohol is a depressant. Mixing these two substances can also lead to excessive alcohol consumption or an overdose of Vivanse.
Alternatives to Vyvanse
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Vyvanse compared to other ADHD medications? It depends on various factors such as cost and side effects. Possible alternatives to Vyvanse for ADHD include:
- Ritalin (methylphenidate): Ritalin is a stimulant used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, but not for binge eating.
- Concerta (methylphenidate): Concerta is an extended release methylphenidate, the same ingredient as Ritalin.
- Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine): Adderall is not a prodrug, unlike Vyvanse, which may have different effects in some people. Adderall XR is an enhanced version of Adderall.
- Focalin (dexmethylphenidate): Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) is a short acting stimulant similar to Adderall. But methylphenidate may be more effective than amphetamines like Adderall for children.
If you notice symptoms of depression while taking Vivanse, it is important to talk to your doctor. They may suggest treatment options such as prescription drugs, cognitive behavioral therapy, or a combination of therapies. Your doctor may also suggest that you stop taking Vivanse and try another treatment for your condition.
Misuse and risk of addiction
Vivanse has a warning in the box for risk of misuse (also called abuse) and addiction. The boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It warns doctors and patients about drug side effects that can be dangerous.
Treatment with Vivanse may lead to physical dependence or misuse. With addiction, your body needs the drug to feel normal. Misuse, on the other hand, means taking the drug differently from what your doctor ordered. This includes taking medications for non-medical purposes.
Misuse can lead to addiction. Some people may also develop addiction when taking Vivance as prescribed. In addiction, it is difficult to stop taking the drug, even if it can cause harm.
Symptoms of misuse of Vivanse may include:
What can help
Your doctor will review your medical history before prescribing Vivanse. They will look for any risk factors for misuse or addiction. They will also monitor you for any symptoms of abuse or addiction during treatment.
Call your doctor right away if you are concerned about misuse or addiction while taking Vivanse. They may lower your dose or force you to switch to a different drug for your condition.
Because Vivanse can be addictive, it is important that you do not stop taking the drug unless your doctor tells you to. If you need to stop treatment, your doctor will reduce your dose over time. This can help prevent withdrawal symptoms (side effects that can occur when you stop taking a drug your body has become addicted to).
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about stopping treatment with Vivanse or the risk of abuse or dependence.
Allergic reaction
Like most medicines, Vivanse may cause an allergic reaction in some people. But this side effect was not reported in studies. However, this has been reported since the drug was approved for use.
Symptoms may be mild or severe and may include:
What can help
If you have mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may suggest an over-the-counter oral antihistamine such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or a topical product such as hydrocortisone cream to relieve your symptoms.
If your doctor confirms that you had a mild allergic reaction to Vivance, they will decide whether you should continue using it.
If you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling or difficulty breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. These symptoms can be life threatening and require immediate medical attention.
If your doctor confirms that you have had a serious allergic reaction to Vivance, he may ask you to switch to another treatment.
Tracking side effects
Consider keeping a record of any side effects you experience during your treatment with Vyvanse. You can then share this information with your doctor. This is especially helpful when you first start taking new medications or using a combination of treatments.
Your notes on side effects may include things like:
Taking notes and sharing them with your doctor will help him learn more about how Vivanse is affecting you. And your doctor can use this information to adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
Warnings for Vivanse
Before deciding to take Vivanse, certain warnings must be taken into account. See below for details.
Warning box: risk of misuse and addiction
Vivanse has a warning in the box for risk of misuse and addiction. The boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The use of stimulant drugs such as Vivanse can lead to abuse and dependence. This can happen even at recommended doses.
See the "Explanation of Side Effects" section above for more information.
Other warnings
Vyvanse may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other health conditions. Talk to your doctor about your medical history before taking Vivanse. The list below includes factors to consider.
Blood flow problems. Vyvanse can cause problems with blood flow in the fingers and toes, including a condition called Raynaud's phenomenon. If you already have blood flow problems, taking Vivanse may make your condition worse. Your doctor can help determine if it is safe for you to take Vivanse.
Heart problems. In rare cases, Vivanse may cause heart-related side effects, including heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, or sudden death. You may be at a higher risk of these side effects if you already have heart problems, such as an abnormal heart rhythm or heart disease. Your doctor can help determine if it is safe to take Vivanse for your heart condition.
Kidney problems. Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems such as chronic kidney disease before taking Vivanse. Kidney problems can lead to a buildup of the drug in the body, which can increase the risk of side effects. Your doctor may need to prescribe a lower dose of the drug for you.
Mental health conditions. Vivanse may cause certain psychiatric disorders including mania, depression and psychosis. If you or a family member has a mental illness, you may be at a higher risk of these side effects if you are taking Vivanse. Your doctor can determine if Vivanse is safe for you. They can also advise you on symptoms to look out for if they prescribe Vivanse for you.
Allergic reaction. If you have had an allergic reaction to Vivanse or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe Vivanse. Ask your doctor which other medicines are best for you.
Alcohol use and Vyvanse
There are no known interactions between alcohol and Vyvanse. But Vivanse has a warning in the box for the risk of abuse and addiction. (See "Explanation of Side Effects" above for more information.)
If you have ever abused or depended on alcohol, your doctor may decide to prescribe a medicine other than Vivanse. This is because you may have a higher risk of misuse or dependence on Vyvanse.
If you drink alcohol, talk to your doctor before taking Vivanse. They can tell you how much alcohol (if any) is safe for you during treatment.
Pregnancy and lactation while taking Vivanse
There are limited data on the use of Vivanse during pregnancy. But taking Vivanse during pregnancy can harm the fetus.
If you have any questions about using Vivanse during pregnancy, talk to your doctor. If you are taking Vivanse while pregnant, consider registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for ADHD medications. Pregnancy registries collect information about the safety of certain medicines when taken during pregnancy.
You should not breastfeed while taking Vivanse. This is due to the fact that the drug passes into breast milk. The drug can cause serious side effects in a breastfed baby. If you have questions about using Vivanse while breastfeeding, talk to your doctor.
What to ask your doctor
If you are looking for treatment options for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or an eating disorder, your doctor may suggest Vyvanse. Like most medicines, taking Vivanse can cause side effects in some people.
Talk to your doctor if you are considering treatment with Vivanse. Some examples of questions you might want to ask include:
If you are taking Vivanse for ADHD, consider subscribing to the Drink-Drink online newsletter. This resource offers guidance on managing your condition and provides answers to frequently asked questions.
Ask a pharmacist
Q:
If I need to stop taking Vivanse, will I have withdrawal symptoms?
Anonymous
A:
If you suddenly stop taking Vivanse, withdrawal symptoms may result. Since your body can become dependent on Vyvanse, it is important that you do not stop taking the drug unless your doctor has recommended it. (With addiction, your body needs the drug to feel normal.)
Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that occur when you stop taking a drug that your body has become addicted to. Examples of these symptoms include:
If you and your doctor decide to gradually decrease your dose over time, your doctor will decide to stop your treatment over time. This helps prevent withdrawal symptoms.
If you have any questions about stopping your Vivanse treatment, talk to your doctor.
Tanya Kerstman, PharmD Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
Registration data: Drink-Drink has made every effort to ensure that all information is accurate, complete and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and experience of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always check with your doctor or other healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or side effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given medicinal product does not mean that the drug or combination of drugs is safe, effective, or suitable for all patients or for all specific uses.
What is Vyvans and what is it used for? | SingleCare - Product Information
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What is Vyvans? | How it works | Dosages | Safety information | Vyvanse Alternatives | Vyvanse vs. Adderall
Vyvanse is a stimulant medication that can treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and compulsive overeating (BED). It helps relieve symptoms of ADHD such as inattention, forgetfulness, and hyperactivity. It may also help control appetite in people with compulsive overeating. Below we look at what Vyvans is and how it compares to other drugs.
RELATED: Get Vyvanse Coupons | Learn more about Vyvanse
What is Vyvanse and what is it used for?
Vyvans (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) is a prescription drug manufactured by Shire Pharmaceuticals. There is no universal version of this medicine.
This stimulant contains lisdexamfetamine, a prodrug of amphetamine. It is a Schedule II controlled substance that has a high potential for misuse, abuse and dependence.
Vyvanse for ADHD
Vyvanse is primarily used to treat ADHD by improving attention and reducing impulsiveness and hyperactive behavior. It is approved for ADHD patients aged 6 years and older. As of 2016, 62% of children with ADHD aged 2 to 17 were taking ADHD medication. Clinical Studies In children with ADHD, Vyvans was found to significantly improve behavior based on the ADHD-Rating Scale (ADHD-RS) compared to placebo.
Vyvanse for Binge Eating
Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the US and is characterized by eating large amounts of food in short periods of time. People with compulsive overeating often cannot control their appetite.
Studies have shown that Vyvanse reduces the number of overeating days per week compared to placebo. He concluded that 50 to 70 mg per day is beneficial for people with moderate to severe binge eating.
In addition, Vyvanse is the first and only drug approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of compulsive overeating. However, professionals do not recommend Vyvans for weight loss or the treatment of obesity.
How does Vyvanse work?
Vyvanse is a prodrug, which means that it is only activated when it is metabolized or processed in the body. Lisdexamfetamine is converted to dextroamphetamine when it enters the gastrointestinal tract. Dextroamphetamine works in the central nervous system (CNS) and increases dopamine and norepinephrine activity in the brain.
Dopamine and norepinephrine are neurotransmitters that can influence a person's attention, mood and motivation. People with ADHD may have low levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, which causes them to have problems with attention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity.
Vyvanse blocks the reuptake of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, which may help improve concentration and impulsive behavior in people with ADHD.
How to take Vyvans
Vyvans is usually given once daily in the morning, with or without food. Doses range from 30 to 70 mg. Vyvanse is available as oral capsules that usually begin to work within an hour of ingestion. It reaches its peak in about four hours and the effects wear off after 14 hours. Vyvanse is available as a delayed-release capsule that may help improve treatment adherence and reduce the potential for end-of-day rebound effects.
The usual dose of Vivanse for a new patient starts at 30 mg. A higher dosage should not be taken without a doctor's approval because it is important to first assess how a person is responding to the medication.
Vyvanse is available as oral capsules and chewable tablets. Capsules for oral administration are available in dosages of 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 mg. Chewable tablets are available in 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 mg.
The oral capsule can be administered with a glass of water or juice, or the contents of the capsule can be mixed with food such as yogurt. Just open the capsule and mix the powder with food. Be aware that foods rich in vitamin C, such as orange juice, may slow down the body's ability to absorb Vyvanse, which may reduce the effectiveness of the medication.
Overdose, missed doses and withdrawal
You can overdose on Vyvanse if you take it incorrectly. Symptoms of a Vyvanse overdose include hallucinations, panic, tremors, restlessness, confusion, rapid breathing, and muscle pain.
If you miss a dose of Vyvanse, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is already evening, it is better to skip the appointment that day. Never take an extra dose to make up for a missed dose.
You may experience withdrawal if you stop taking Vyvanse abruptly. Withdrawal symptoms may include trembling, sweating, irritability, fatigue, and depression. Because the drug wears off within a day, some people may experience a relapse. Failure of Vivanse is normal, especially on the first use of the drug, and symptoms may be similar to those of withdrawal, such as irritability and fatigue. Check with your doctor if you regularly experience these symptoms.
Consult your Vyvanse Medication Guide for more information on how to take Vyvanse.
Storage Location
Store Vyvanse at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep it away from light to avoid overheating.
It is best to store Vyvanse in a closed compartment, especially if you live with children.
If your doctor tells you to stop taking Vyvanse before you finish your prescription, do not throw it in the trash. He can harm animals and people who find Vyvans at his disposal. Instead, look for a drug takeback program at your local pharmacy. Read about how to dispose of medications the right way for more information.
Restrictions
You should not take Vyvanse if you:
The FDA approved MAOI list includes marplan (isocarboxazid), nardil (phenelzine), emsam (selegiline), and parnate (tranylcypromine). Taking an MAOI with Vyvanse may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
Talk to your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to Vyvanse or other ADHD medications in the past.
Warnings
Vyvanse may increase heart rate and blood pressure. Therefore, those with heart problems or heart defects should talk to their doctor before taking Vyvanse. This medicine has been reported to cause sudden death in patients with heart disease.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. There are no reliable data on how Vyvanse affects the fetus or the unborn child. Seek professional medical help if you need to take ADHD medication while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Federally controlled substances such as Vyvanse are at high risk of addiction because high doses can make some users feel euphoric. However, improper use of Vyvanse can have devastating and fatal health consequences.
Side effects
Side effects of Vyvanse for ADHD and binge eating include:
Other side effects, primarily associated with VyVanse for ADHD, include: