Vyvanse Withdrawal | Symptoms, Timeline, Crash, & Detox

Vyvanse (the brand name for lisdexamfetamine) is a prescription drug and central nervous system stimulant used for treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder. Its active ingredient, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, is an amphetamine that stimulates the central nervous system.

Vyvanse works by increasing the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This is the same way many ADHD medications, like Adderall, work. 

When someone takes Vyvanse, as soon as the effects wear off, they’ll likely experience a crash. If they stop taking Vyvanse altogether, they may experience withdrawal symptoms.

Symptoms Of A Vyvanse Withdrawal

There are a variety of symptoms that can come up during a Vyvanse crash or withdrawal, including:

• craving for Vyvanse
• difficulty sleeping
• fatigue
• mood swings
• anxiety
• concentration problems
• depression
• headache
• irritability
• shaking
• sweating
• increased appetite

Vyvanse Withdrawal Timeline

A Vyvanse withdrawal follows a particular timeline. While there are certain factors that can change the length of time withdrawal lasts, there is a common timeline you can expect:

• 24 hours after the last dose: Vyvanse withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, depression, cravings, and increased appetite may begin to set in
• 3-5 days after the last dose: Vyvanse withdrawal symptoms continue to persist and reach their peak during this time. You may also see symptoms like abrupt mood swings, aches,  irritability, and sleep disturbances show up.
• 6-7 days after the last dose:  Most withdrawal symptoms dissipate by this time but some of the psychological symptoms may continue if left untreated. 

Factors That Affect Vyvanse Withdrawal

There are some things that can change how long a withdrawal from Vyvanse can last, including:

• the method used to quit (tapering, medical detox, or cold turkey)
• the dose and frequency of use
• how long Vyvanse was used
• mental health and physical health complications
• history of combining Vyvanse with another substance

How To Prevent A Vyvanse Crash

There are a few things that can be done to help manage the symptoms of a crash. They may not get rid of the symptoms completely, but they can lower the intensity.

Tapering

One of the best ways to manage withdrawal symptoms or a Vyvanse crash is to slowly taper down the dose of the drug. It’s not recommended this be done on your own but with the help of a doctor or healthcare provider. 

With tapering, symptoms can be reduced or even stopped altogether. This is especially helpful for those who have built a physical dependence on Vyvanse.

Avoid Other Stimulants

Not taking any other stimulants is also important. This includes cigarettes and caffeine. They can make some of the symptoms of the comedown worse and should be avoided as much as possible.

Eat Well

It’s also important to stay hydrated and eat a healthy, balanced diet. This can help your mood but also alleviate the intensity of some of the crash symptoms.

Vyvanse Detox

There are a few different methods of Vyvanse detox to choose from. Which one is right for you really depends on your situation and how advanced your addiction/withdrawal symptoms are.

Cold Turkey

Detoxing cold turkey can be quite dangerous because of how intense the symptoms can become. Relapse is more likely using this method as opposed to a professional detox program. 

Vyvanse is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the FDA and has a high potential for abuse, which means stopping can be difficult on your own.

Detox Centers/Medical Detox

Detox centers or going through a medical detox with the help of a doctor are recommended when going through a Vyvanse withdrawal. This step usually happens before addiction treatment. 

Medical professionals can provide medications to reduce the symptoms of withdrawal. This kind of treatment can last for days or weeks. It depends on how long the symptoms last.

These types of centers can provide inpatient or outpatient care depending on what you require. 

Inpatient detox programs provide around-the-clock care for withdrawal symptoms.

Outpatient treatment works best for those with outside support or with other obligations. You can regularly check in with a medical professional while still maintaining your job or work schedule. 

If you or a loved one struggles with Vyvanse addiction, call our helpline today and discover the treatment option that’s best for you.