From the Research
It is highly recommended to gradually taper off Vyvanse rather than stopping abruptly to minimize potential withdrawal symptoms and allow the brain to adjust to decreasing levels of the medication. When discontinuing Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine), a stimulant medication used for ADHD and binge eating disorder, tapering should be done under medical supervision. A typical tapering schedule might involve reducing your dose by 10-20mg every 3-7 days until you reach the lowest available dose (10mg) before stopping completely. The exact tapering schedule should be determined by your healthcare provider based on your current dose, how long you've been taking the medication, and individual factors.
Some key points to consider when tapering off Vyvanse include:
- Abrupt discontinuation, especially from higher doses or after long-term use, can lead to withdrawal symptoms including fatigue, depression, increased appetite, sleep disturbances, and in some cases, a temporary worsening of ADHD symptoms 1.
- Tapering helps minimize these effects by allowing your brain chemistry to gradually adjust to decreasing levels of the medication.
- Lisdexamfetamine is a prodrug of d-amphetamine, and its metabolism and excretion should be considered when tapering off the medication 2.
- The medication has been shown to be effective in reducing binge eating days per week at doses of 50 and 70 mg daily, but common side effects include dry mouth, insomnia, weight loss, and headache 2.
Always consult with your prescribing physician before making any changes to your Vyvanse regimen, as they can provide personalized guidance and support throughout the tapering process.