How Long Does Vyvanse Last?

After you take a dose of Vyvanse, you may feel its effects for about 14 hours. 

During this time, you may experience positive effects such as improved concentration, organization, and attention span, as well as acute negative side effects such as loss of appetite, sleep problems, and dry mouth.

Vyvanse is a brand name prescription drug that can treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder (BED). Its active ingredient is lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, and is available in extended-release chewable tablets and capsules.

Vyvanse is a schedule II controlled substance with a high potential for drug abuse. If Vyvanse is abused, its effects may last for shorter or longer amounts of time. Taking Vyvanse as directed can reduce the chances of negative side effects.

How Long Does It Take For Vyvanse To Kick In?

Vyvanse may kick in about 3 hours after it is taken. How long Vyvanse takes to kick in is related to its prodrug and extended-release status. A prodrug is a substance that must be broken down by enzymes in the body to take effect.

The main ingredient in Vyvanse, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, is fairly inactive in the body once taken. Instead, Vyvanse breaks down to the metabolite dextroamphetamine, the same active ingredient in Adderall.

Dextroamphetamine reaches peak concentrations about 60 to 160 minutes after it is taken. From this time to around 14 hours later, dextroamphetamine can increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in your brain. 

The timeline of Vyvanse can vary based on your dosage and pattern of use.

Maximizing The Half-Life Of Vyvanse

People looking for relief from symptoms of ADHD or severe binge eating disorders can use simple habits to make their Vyvanse medication as effective as possible. 

Half-life refers to how long it takes for a drug to reach 50% of its maximum concentration, and can measure when a drug leaves your body. The half-life of dextroamphetamine, Vyvanse’s main metabolite, is around 12 hours.

Healthcare professionals may recommend eating before taking ADHD medications to reduce side effects and offset appetite suppression. Orange juice and other citrus products can hurt the body’s ability to absorb dextroamphetamine, the main metabolite of Vyvanse, and such products should be avoided.

How Long The Side Effects Of Vyvanse Last

Acute, common side effects of Vyvanse can include dry mouth, high blood pressure and heart rate, and loss of appetite.

Serious side effects from long-term Vyvanse use can persist even after quitting. Like other central nervous system stimulants, Vyvanse is linked to weight loss, heart problems, and growth suppression. These side effects can be permanent in some cases.

If Vyvanse abuse occurs, serious long-term side effects may be more likely. Vyvanse’s stimulant properties make it a possible target for drug abuse.

Treatment Options For Vyvanse Abuse

Vyvanse, Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta, and other stimulant medications can be effective in the treatment of ADHD when taken as directed. However, they can cause both acute and long-term side effects even after usage stops.

A drug addiction treatment program from medical professionals can address and manage stimulant abuse. During treatment, you may be recommended for drug tests, detoxification, counseling, behavioral treatment, and other treatment services.

To learn about our outpatient treatment options, please contact us today.