Vyvanse is the brand name for lisdexamfetamine dimesylate and is an amphetamine-based central nervous system stimulant that is very similar to Adderall/Adderall XR (amphetamine-dextroamphetamine).

This prescription medication is used in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Unlike Adderall, which also treats narcolepsy along with ADHD, Vyvanse can also treat binge eating disorder. Vyvanse is available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations.

As a stimulant, Vyvanse increases dopamine in the brain. This leads to an increase in impulse control and focus, and a decrease hyperactivity.

Vyvanse As A Stimulant

Vyvanse is a stimulant medication that blocks the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine. This increases the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the central nervous system (CNS), which is what helps treat ADHD symptoms.

Vyvanse is also a prodrug, which means it only becomes active once it’s metabolized in the body.

Beyond being a stimulant and a drug used in the treatment of ADHD, Vyvanse is also classified as a schedule II controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

This means it has a high potential for abuse and can lead to psychological and physical dependence.

Common Side Effects Of Vyvanse

Vyvanse also comes with a number of side effects. These side effects are very similar to those that occur with other ADHD medications like Ritalin, Adderall, and Concerta.

Side effects range from mild to severe and some are more common than others.

Some of the most common side effects of Vyvanse include:

• loss of appetite
• difficulty sleeping
• abdominal pain
• irritability
• vomiting
• weight loss
• nausea
• dry mouth
• dizziness
• rash
• tremor
• diarrhea
• anxiety
• constipation
• increased blood pressure

Serious Side Effects Of Vyvanse

Vyvanse can also occasionally lead to serious side effects. If you experience any of the following side effects, you should see your doctor as soon as possible:

• blurred vision
• irregular heartbeat
• chest pain
• uncontrolled movements
• unusual wounds on the fingers or toes
• outbursts of words and sounds
• change in sexual ability or interest
• swelling ankles/feet
• rapid or unexplained weight loss
• frequent/prolonged erections

Drug Interactions With Vyvanse

There are certain medications and drugs that should not be taken with Vyvanse as they can lead to very serious reactions. The drugs that negatively interact with Vyvanse include:

• monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• certain antidepressants like fluoxetine, paroxetine, duloxetine, and venlafaxine
• medications containing amphetamine or dextroamphetamine
• alcohol
• marijuana
• certain supplements

Vyvanse & Pre-Existing Conditions

Vyvanse also doesn’t work well in the presence of certain pre-existing conditions, or if you have a family history of certain health issues. It can also make some conditions worse.

If you have any of the following health conditions or a family history of these issues, the stimulant drug is most likely not right for you:

• blood circulation problems
• mental health conditions like severe agitation and psychosis
• family history of mental health disorders like bipolar disorder, depression, or suicidal thoughts
• heart problems such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, and high blood pressure
• family history of cardiovascular problems such as sudden death or irregular heartbeat
  history of stroke or overactive thyroid
• seizures
• kidney disease
• personal/family history of substance use disorder
• personal/family history of uncontrolled muscle movements/tics

The drug is also not recommended for people who are pregnant as it can lead to low birth weight and pre-term birth. It’s also not recommended for those who are breastfeeding.

Treatment For Stimulant Addiction

If you or a loved one are struggling with a stimulant addiction or any form of drug abuse, you don’t have to deal with it alone. Northeast Addiction Treatment Center offers a variety of outpatient treatment options.

To learn more, please call our helpline today.