Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) belongs to a class of drugs known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulant medications. According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Vyvanse is listed as a schedule II drug on the controlled substance list.

Vyvanse Uses & Abuse Potential

Vyvanse is used in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in children, adolescents, and adults. In addition to treating ADHD symptoms, Vyvanse helps to treat those struggling with binge eating disorder.

Many stimulant drugs are used for the treatment of ADHD, including:

• Adderall or Adderall XR
• Concerta
• Ritalin
• Desoxyn
• Dexedrine

Vyvanse is available as a chewable tablet or capsule. This prescription drug is a controlled substance and has some potential for abuse, despite being beneficial as an ADHD medication.

How Vyvanse Works

Because this central nervous system stimulant can be abused, it’s important to understand how the medication works within your body.

According to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), abusing stimulants such as Vyvanse that contain amphetamine and methylphenidate can lead to physical dependence.

However, Vyvanse is a prodrug. This means it must be metabolized in the body before it’s converted to dextroamphetamine and produces any effects.

Once the drug is metabolized, it increases norepinephrine and dopamine in the CNS. This increase in dopamine can become addictive, but it is likely less addictive than other prescription stimulants like Adderall.

Vyvanse Drug Interactions & Warnings

There are a number of warnings and drug interactions regarding Vyvanse. For instance, those taking Vyvanse should let their doctor know if they:

• are pregnant or breastfeeding
• take other medications or supplements
• have a history of substance abuse
• have a family history of heart problems
• have kidney disease, glaucoma, or seizures

Antidepressants & Mental Health

Before taking Vyvanse, it’s important to let your doctor know if you have a history of mental illness in your family or if you suffer from bipolar disorder. In addition to this, there are a number of antidepressants to avoid.

For instance, those taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), or serotonin and norepinephrine retake inhibitors (SNRIs) should speak with their doctor before taking Vyvanse.

Taking any of these medications together can lead to a number of mental health concerns including paranoia, depression, or psychosis.

Side Effects Of Vyvanse

Taking this stimulant drug may cause you to experience a wide array of side effects. When abused, the side effects can worsen.

Common Side Effects Of Vyvanse

Some of the common side effects of Vyvanse use include:

• sleepiness
• dry mouth
• nausea
• weight loss
• constipation
• headache
• loss of appetite

Serious Side Effects Of Vyvanse

Serious side effects of Vyvanse may include:

• psychosis
• seizures
• high blood pressure
• hives
• heart rate fluctuations
• psychosis
• mood swings
• hallucinations

Cardiovascular Problems

Those who abuse Vyvanse may experience a number of cardiovascular health concerns. For instance, those abusing the drug may begin to experience heart problems that can result in a heart attack or even sudden death.

Withdrawal Symptoms

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), those who abuse Vyvanse may suffer from withdrawal symptoms brought on by abruptly stopping the drug.

Those who take Vyvanse and decide to stop their medication “cold turkey” should be aware that withdrawal symptoms can occur, such as:

• severe fatigue
• insomnia
• depression
• difficulty feeling pleasure
• cravings for the drug
• confusion

Treating Stimulant Abuse

To address stimulant drug abuse, addiction treatment programs use a combination of peer support groups, behavioral therapies like motivational interviewing or contingency management, and process group therapies in a structured or controlled setting.

Healthcare professionals may also monitor a patient’s withdrawal symptoms before they continue with inpatient or outpatient treatment. For information on our outpatient programs for prescription drug addiction, please contact us today.