Can Vyvanse Be Mixed with Water?
Yes, Vyvanse capsules can be opened and mixed with water (as well as yogurt or orange juice), and this is an FDA-approved method of administration. 1
FDA-Approved Administration Methods
The official FDA prescribing information explicitly permits two methods for taking Vyvanse capsules 1:
- Swallow capsules whole, OR
- Open capsules and mix the entire contents with:
- Water
- Yogurt
- Orange juice
Critical Administration Instructions
When mixing Vyvanse with liquids or yogurt 1:
- Break apart any compacted powder using a spoon if needed
- Mix until completely dispersed - the active ingredient dissolves completely
- Consume the entire mixture immediately - do not store it
- Expect a film to remain - inactive ingredients may leave a residue in the glass/container after consumption (this is normal)
- Never divide a dose - you must consume the full capsule contents; partial doses are not recommended
Bioequivalence Evidence
Research confirms that mixing Vyvanse with water or other approved liquids does not compromise therapeutic effectiveness. A pharmacokinetic study demonstrated that D-amphetamine (the active moiety) bioavailability remained equivalent whether the capsule was swallowed whole or mixed with orange juice or yogurt 2. The geometric mean ratios for maximum plasma concentration and area under the curve were within the accepted bioequivalence range of 0.80-1.25 for the active drug.
Clinical Context
This alternative administration method is particularly useful for:
- Patients who have difficulty swallowing capsules
- Pediatric patients (age 6 and older for ADHD treatment)
- Situations requiring flexible dosing administration
Important caveat: Chewable tablets are a separate formulation that must be chewed thoroughly before swallowing - they cannot be mixed with liquids 1.