How soon for Vyvanse to start working and how long does it last?

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Key Points

What medicine is in Vyvanse?

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) is an oral prescription medication that can be used in adults and children at least 6 years of age to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Binge Eating Disorder (BED) in adults.

The ingredient in Vyvanse, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, is considered a prodrug. Prodrugs are inactive when first taken, but then are converted in the body to an active medication. Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate is broken down by red blood cells to dextroamphetamine (the active agent) and l-lysine, an amino acid.

Vyvanse is taken only once a day, in the morning, in either ADHD or BED. In clinical studies in children 6 to 12 years of age with ADHD, Vyvanse effects were maintained throughout the day. Based on parent ratings behavioral effects were evident in the morning (approximately 10 am), afternoon (approximately 2 pm), and early evening (approximately 6 pm).

Vyvanse is in the class of drugs known as central nervous system stimulants. Vyvanse is not used for weight loss or for the treatment of obesity. It is not known if it is safe for this use.

How do I take Vyvanse?

Take Vyvanse once a day in the morning. It’s best to take it in the morning because it can interfere with sleep if taken later in the day. Vyvanse can be taken with or without food. Vyvanse is often started at a lower dose and increased based on your response. Always be sure to take Vyvanse exactly as your doctor tells you to take it.

Your doctor may sometimes stop your Vyvanse treatment for a period of time to check your symptoms of ADHD or binge eating disorder.

Vyvanse comes in capsules or chewable tablets. For children or others who prefer a softer or liquid formulation, the Vyvanse capsules can be opened and taken with yogurt, water or orange juice. Ask your pharmacist how to do this correctly.

Don’t take Vyvanse if you or your child are taking or have taken an anti-depression medicine called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) within the past 14 days. Also, don’t take Vyvanse if you are sensitive or allergic to Vyvanse or any of its ingredients, or had a reaction to other stimulant medicines.

What are the most common side effects with Vyvanse?

ADHD

In ADHD studies, the most common side effects of Vyvanse (≥5% and at least twice that of placebo) include:

Decreased appetite can occur in roughly a third of patients, and insomnia (trouble sleeping) ranged from 13% to 27% of patients taking Vyvanse. Other more common adverse effects can include stomach upset, dry mouth, weight loss and anxiety or irritability.

Binge Eating Disorder (BED)

In binge eating disorder (BED) studies, the most common side effects of Vyvanse (≥5% and at least twice that of placebo) include:

Dry mouth (36%), insomnia (20%), and decreased appetite (8%) were especially prevalent in BED studies.

Vyvanse may increase your blood pressure and heart rate. Tell your doctor if you have any heart problems or heart defects, high blood pressure, or a family history of these problems. Call your doctor right away if you have chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting while taking Vyvanse.

It’s important to know that central nervous system (CNS) stimulants like Vyvanse have a high potential for drug abuse and dependence. Your doctor will assess the risk for abuse prior to prescribing Vyvanse and monitor you for abuse and dependence. Keep Vyvanse in a safe place to prevent misuse, abuse or theft by others.

Review more side effects with Vyvanse here and discuss them with your doctor.

Bottom Line

This is not all the information you need to know about Vyvanse for safe and effective use. Review the full product information here, and discuss with your health care provider.