Abusing Vyvanse may lead to long-term brain damage over time. Some double-blind studies and clinical trials have reported reduced brain function in humans with a history of amphetamine abuse, though the exact ways amphetamine can cause brain damage is unknown.

Vyvanse abuse can damage neurotransmitter networks in animal brains. More studies may be required to establish a similar link in humans, especially as substance abuse of amphetamines continues to rise and amphetamines see some use in treating traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs.

While the link between Vyvanse abuse and physical brain damage may require more study, Vyvanse may negatively impact your mental health. Drug addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and psychosis may be correlated to Vyvanse abuse.

How Vyvanse Affects The Brain

Vyvanse is a central nervous system prescription stimulant. Its main active ingredient, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, works by increasing norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, two neurotransmitters that control vital functions.

In patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Vyvanse can improve executive function, reduce impulsivity, and assist with other ADHD symptoms. If Vyvanse is abused, its effects on the brain can extend to the digestive and cardiovascular systems.

Vyvanse can also affect the brain in the long-term, though these effects are less understood than physical effects such as high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and weight loss.

Studies On Vyvanse Abuse & Brain Damage

Research has been conducted on animals who receive high doses of amphetamines.

Over a period of time, these animals exhibited damage to their dopaminergic pathways, the main network of dopamine in the brain. This damage may be caused by toxic chemicals disrupting these receptors.

In humans, studies have been conducted on people with a history of amphetamine abuse, especially methamphetamine. Reduced brain function, abnormal brain activity, and abnormal levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin had a high prevalence in these subjects.

Cognitive impairment and persisting memory problems were common side effects in those studied. Since Vyvanse has a similar effect on the body as other amphetamines, the effects of methamphetamine on the brain may also apply to Vyvanse.

Vyvanse Abuse & Mental Health

Amphetamines such as Vyvanse may require more research to establish a link with brain damage. By comparison, the link between Vyvanse and mental health problems is understood well.

Vyvanse is a prodrug with an effective formulation, but it is also a schedule II controlled substance with a high abuse potential. Pediatric patients who started taking ADHD medications from 3-5 years of age may be at the highest risk of long-term mental health effects.

Psychosis can be another long-term effect of Vyvanse on mental health. Hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and physical tics have been observed in patients taking Vyvanse, which may be indistinguishable from schizophrenia or Parkinson’s disease.

Treatment For Vyvanse Abuse

Vyvanse, as well as other ADHD medications like Concerta, Ritalin, and Adderall, are all popular targets of drug abuse due to their stimulant properties.

Pediatric, adolescent, and adult ADHD patients on Vyvanse are also at risk of Vyvanse abuse, and some age groups may experience side effects unique to their age group.

Vyvanse abuse can be harmful to both your physical and mental health, and it can be difficult to quit. For information on our outpatient programs for stimulant drug addiction, please contact us today.