From the Guidelines
Vyvanse can cause drowsiness in some individuals, although it is not a commonly reported side effect. According to the provided evidence, stimulants like lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) are known to cause sleep disturbances 1, but drowsiness is more commonly associated with non-stimulants like clonidine and guanfacine, which can cause somnolence/sedation 1. Some key points to consider:
- Stimulants like Vyvanse can cause sleep disturbances, which may lead to drowsiness 1
- Individual variations in metabolism and dosage can contribute to drowsiness while taking Vyvanse
- Taking the medication early in the morning and maintaining proper hydration and nutrition can help minimize drowsiness
- If experiencing persistent drowsiness while taking Vyvanse, it's essential to consult with the prescribing healthcare provider to discuss potential dosage adjustments or timing modifications 1. The most recent and highest quality study 1 suggests that while Vyvanse is not typically associated with drowsiness, it can occur in some cases, and healthcare providers should be aware of this potential side effect when prescribing the medication.
From the Research
Vyvanse and Drowsiness
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) causes drowsiness as a common side effect 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, the studies do report that insomnia is a common side effect of Vyvanse, which is the opposite of drowsiness 3, 4, 5.
- The mechanism of action of Vyvanse involves increasing dopamine and noradrenaline concentrations in the synaptic cleft, which is expected to increase alertness and energy 2.
- The most common adverse events reported in the studies include dry mouth, headache, and insomnia, but drowsiness is not mentioned as a common side effect 3, 4, 5.
- It is possible that some individuals may experience drowsiness as a rare or idiosyncratic side effect of Vyvanse, but this is not supported by the available evidence 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.