What is the most commonly prescribed dose of Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

Most Commonly Prescribed Vyvanse Dose for ADHD

The most commonly prescribed starting dose of Vyvanse is 30 mg once daily in the morning, with typical maintenance doses ranging from 50-70 mg daily after titration. 1

Starting Dose

• Begin with 30 mg once daily in the morning (or 20-30 mg for some patients), which represents the standard initial dose across most treatment guidelines 1, 2
• The 30 mg starting dose balances efficacy with tolerability, minimizing initial side effects while providing therapeutic benefit 3

Titration Protocol

• Increase by 10 mg weekly based on clinical response and tolerability 1
• Maintain weekly contact during initial titration (typically 2-4 weeks) to assess response and side effects 3
• Systematically assess for specific stimulant side effects at each dose adjustment, including insomnia, anorexia, headaches, and weight loss 3, 2
• Collect standardized ADHD rating scales before each dose increase to objectively track response 2

Typical Maintenance Doses

• The therapeutic dose range is 30-70 mg daily, with 50-70 mg representing the most common maintenance doses in clinical practice 1, 4
• Clinical trials demonstrate efficacy across all three FDA-approved doses (30,50, and 70 mg), with dose-dependent improvements in ADHD symptoms 4, 5
• The maximum approved daily dose is 70 mg 1, 4

Duration of Effect

• Vyvanse provides approximately 12-14 hours of symptom control, allowing once-daily morning dosing 5, 6
• This extended duration distinguishes it from immediate-release amphetamine formulations that require multiple daily doses 6

When Maximum Dose Is Insufficient

• If adequate symptom control is not achieved at 70 mg daily, consider alternative treatments or adding non-stimulant medications rather than exceeding the maximum dose 2
• Document clearly that symptoms could not be controlled at lower doses before considering alternative approaches 2

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Starting at too high a dose leads to unnecessary side effects and decreased medication adherence 3
• Failure to systematically assess both benefits and side effects during titration compromises optimal dosing 3
• Monitor weight regularly as weight loss is a common side effect requiring clinical attention 3