Vyvanse Side Effects & Warnings

Vyvanse, the brand name for lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, is a central nervous system stimulant used to help treat symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as moderate to severe binge eating disorder. 

This prescription drug is a Schedule II controlled substance according to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which means it has a high potential for abuse, can be habit-forming, and may lead to physical or psychological dependence. 

While this ADHD medication is helpful for those struggling with ADHD, it may produce various side effects, especially when this stimulant medication is abused.

Side Effects Of Vyvanse

While Vyvanse can be helpful, taking the medication may lead to various side effects that can range in severity.

Common Side Effects Of Vyvanse

Many of the side effects of Vyvanse occur similarly in men and women. However, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding may pass the medication to the child unknowingly through breast milk during lactation.

Side effects which may affect anyone who takes Vyvanse include:

• loss of appetite
• weight loss
• dizziness
• constipation
• dry mouth
• nausea
• trouble sleeping

Serious Side Effects Of Vyvanse

Some of the serious side effects that can occur if Vyvanse is abused include withdrawal symptoms, overdose, or serotonin syndrome. Serious side effects of Vyvanse abuse may occur when a person takes more of the medication than prescribed.

Vyvanse Warnings & Precautions

Speak with a healthcare professional before taking Vyvanse. Be sure to read the medication guide and follow any prescribing drug information given to you by your doctor. There are several warnings for taking Vyvanse you should be aware of.

Drug Interactions

A number of serious health problems or allergic reactions can occur in those who combine certain medications with Vyvanse. The following substances should be avoided while taking Vyvanse:

• medications containing amphetamine or dextroamphetamine such as Adderall
• other ADHD medications such as methylphenidate (Ritalin)
• CNS depressants such as benzodiazepines, alcohol, or barbiturates
• certain over-the-counter medications or supplements
• antidepressants such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

When antidepressants are combined with Vyvanse, severe mental health issues such as psychosis, hallucinations, and mood swings can take place. This is particularly the case with MAO.

Some of the examples of MAOIs include: methylene blue, selegiline (Eldepryl), isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), and (Zyvox). Taking these medications with Vyvanse may result in serotonin syndrome.

Serotonin Syndrome

When certain antidepressants are combined with Vyvanse, a serious condition known as serotonin syndrome may take place. This condition is caused by high levels of serotonin in the brain which can result in serotonin toxicity.

Some of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include:

• vomiting
• stomach pain
• seizures
• hypertension
• heart attack
• coma
• sudden death

Long-term effects on the brain from Vyvanse abuse may include motor and cognitive losses. Brain damage can take place, resulting in abnormal brain chemistry according to the Journal of Molecular Psychiatry.

Medical Conditions

Before taking Vyvanse, request the medical advice of your healthcare provider regarding any medical conditions which apply to you or your family history. For instance, those with bipolar disorder or other mental illnesses should avoid Vyvanse.

If a person has Raynaud’s phenomenon or conditions which cause circulation problems, Vyvanse may create health issues due to the high blood pressure and fluctuations in heart rate which may take place.

Heart problems or cardiovascular issues can be part of your family history. If you have a heart defect, you may need another medication rather than Vyvanse.

Chest pain and heart rate fluctuations can create cardiovascular events, especially when Vyvanse is abused. Those with heart problems or a family history of heart disease should avoid Vyvanse.

Additionally, those who have tics or certain neurological disorders should speak with a healthcare representative before taking Vyvanse. Seizures can occur in those who abuse Vyvanse which can create life-threatening issues with those who have epilepsy.

Vyvanse Overdose

According to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), some of the symptoms of a Vyvanse overdose may include:

• fluctuations in heart rate
• fluctuations in blood pressure
• tremors
• skin color changes
• panic states
• trouble breathing
• psychosis
• confusion

If you suspect an overdose has occurred, contact 911 right away and seek urgent medical attention.

If you or a loved one struggle with prescription drug abuse, please contact us today to learn how we can help.