Vyvanse is the brand name for lisdexamfetamine, an amphetamine-based central nervous system stimulant medication used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder (BED). It’s often compared to Adderall (amphetamine‐dextroamphetamine).

The prescription medication works by increasing the amount of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This increase helps decrease the symptoms of ADHD and BED.

Vyvanse is also classified as a schedule II controlled substance by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

While this medication is safe when taken as directed, it’s up to you and your doctor to determine if it’s worth taking if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can You Take Vyvanse While Pregnant?

There really is no clear-cut answer to whether taking Vyvanse during pregnancy is safe or not. There have not been enough human studies done to determine one way or another. There have been animal studies done but it’s difficult to know if the results transfer over to humans.

And this is not just for Vyvanse. It also includes other ADHD medications like Ritalin (methylphenidate), Adderall, and Strattera (atomoxetine).

The best way to determine if you should take Vyvanse while pregnant is to talk to your healthcare provider and discuss what your needs and concerns are. Once you talk to them, you can then decide whether using Vyvanse during your pregnancy is the right choice for you.

Possible Birth Defects Associated With Vyvanse

While there have been few human studies, there is some evidence that there may be an increased risk for birth defects with the use of ADHD medications during a pregnant woman’s first trimester. The possible birth defects may include:

• gastroschisis: intestines found outside the body due to an opening near the belly button
• omphalocele: intestines found in a transparent sac outside the body due to an opening over the belly button
• transverse limb deficiency: what looks like the amputation of an arm, leg, or finger

But while these birth defects and malformations are serious, the potential risk is still very low, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Beyond Vyvanse, other ADHD meds may be related to birth defects as well. They might lead to heart defects or congenital abnormalities. But that’s likely not the case with Vyvanse.

Vyvanse Abuse & Pregnancy

While taking the drug as directed may or may not cause issues with pregnancy, abusing Vyvanse is likely to increase the risk of birth defects and even lead to withdrawal symptoms in the baby once it’s born. Withdrawal symptoms can include agitation and sleep disturbances.

Vyvanse abuse may also lead to low birth weight or restrict blood flow to the fetus.

Vyvanse Use While Breastfeeding

Just like with pregnancy and Vyvanse use, there aren’t many studies showing the risks of taking Vyvanse while breastfeeding. That being said, the risk of adverse effects is possible so you may think about whether you need to take the medication while you’re breastfeeding.

If your physical and/or mental health is going to be better during pregnancy and breastfeeding while on Vyvanse, the benefits may outweigh the potential risks, and taking the drug may be the right choice. You can always choose to not breastfeed and feed your baby from a bottle instead.

If you do take Vyvanse and breastfeed, the medication can pass into the breastmilk and lead to a number of side effects in the baby that may include:

• loss of appetite
• restlessness
• sleep disturbances
• extreme drowsiness

Additionally, as with any medication or drug, if you abuse it and continue to breastfeed, it will likely not only negatively affect your child, but also negatively affect you. It may lower your milk production and lactation.

Side Effects Of Vyvanse

Beyond the effects Vyvanse can have during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, it can also lead to side effects in the mother taking the prescription drug. The side effects may include:

• sleepiness
• dizziness
• headache
• dry mouth
• constipation
• diarrhea
• nausea
• high blood pressure
• weight loss

If you or a loved one is thinking of getting pregnant or already are and are struggling with stimulant abuse or addiction, you don’t have to go through it alone.

At Northeast Addiction Treatment Center, we offer a variety of different treatment options including outpatient services, medication-assisted treatment, and specialized therapy.