What is the generic version of Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)?

Generic Version of Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine)

There is currently no generic version of Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) available, as it remains under patent protection. Lisdexamfetamine is a prodrug that is converted to dextroamphetamine after ingestion 1.

Key Information About Lisdexamfetamine

• Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse®) is a prodrug stimulant used for ADHD treatment that is converted to dextroamphetamine in the blood after oral administration 2, 3
• It comprises an l-lysine amino acid covalently bonded to dextroamphetamine, making it pharmacologically inactive until enzymatic hydrolysis occurs 2
• The conversion process primarily takes place in red blood cells, releasing the active d-amphetamine and the amino acid lysine 3

Dosing and Administration

• Usual starting dose is 20-30 mg once daily in the morning 1
• Titration typically involves increasing by 10 mg weekly to a maximum of 70 mg daily 1
• Once-daily dosing provides long-acting coverage with efficacy demonstrated from 1.5 hours post-dose through 13 hours 4

Clinical Considerations

• Lisdexamfetamine has reduced abuse potential compared to immediate-release dextroamphetamine due to its rate-limited hydrolysis in the body 2, 3
• It may be preferred over other stimulants in adolescents due to lower abuse potential 1
• The pharmacokinetic properties make extraction of the stimulant component more difficult compared to other stimulant medications 1

Safety Profile

• Side effects are consistent with other stimulant medications and include decreased appetite (47%), insomnia (27%), headache (17%), irritability (16%), and abdominal pain (16%) 4
• Most adverse events are mild to moderate in severity 2, 5
• Long-term administration has not been associated with increased incidence of adverse events or higher rates of treatment discontinuation 5

Special Populations

• Limited published information exists on lisdexamfetamine use during pregnancy 1
• As lisdexamfetamine converts to dextroamphetamine, pregnancy risk information for amphetamines should be considered when evaluating use in pregnant patients 1
• Similarly, there are no specific studies on lisdexamfetamine during breastfeeding, but information on amphetamines should be applied 1

Important Considerations

• Lisdexamfetamine is classified as a controlled substance due to its stimulant properties 5
• In some countries like Japan, it is designated as raw material for stimulants requiring strict distribution control 5
• It has been approved for both ADHD and binge eating disorder in adults in some countries 6