From the Guidelines
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a prescription medication that helps with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults, as well as moderate to severe binge eating disorder in adults, by improving attention span, focus, and reducing impulsive behavior and hyperactivity.
Key Points
- For ADHD, Vyvanse works by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which play key roles in attention and executive function 1.
- Typical dosing starts at 30mg once daily in the morning and may be adjusted up to 70mg daily based on response 1.
- As a prodrug, Vyvanse is converted to dextroamphetamine in the body, providing a gradual onset and longer duration of action (10-14 hours) compared to immediate-release stimulants.
- Side effects may include decreased appetite, insomnia, dry mouth, and increased heart rate.
- Vyvanse is a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse, and patients should take it exactly as prescribed.
Considerations
- The decision to initiate pharmacological treatment for ADHD should consider factors such as severity of symptoms, presence of comorbidities, and patients' preferences 1.
- Medication adherence is a common problem in ADHD treatment, and regular assessment and open discussion of potential issues can help increase adherence 1.
- The choice of medication and dosing regimen can also affect medication adherence, with once-daily dosing generally preferred over twice-daily dosing 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate Capsules are indicated for the treatment of: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults and pediatric patients 6 years and older [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. Moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults [see Clinical Studies (14. 2)].
Vyvanse helps with:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults and pediatric patients 6 years and older
- Moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults 2
From the Research
What does Vyvanse help with
- Vyvanse, also known as lisdexamfetamine, is a central nervous system stimulant that is primarily used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults 3, 4.
- It has also been approved for the treatment of moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults 5, 6, 7.
- The medication works by increasing the levels of dopamine and noradrenaline in the brain, which helps to improve attention, reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity, and decrease binge eating behaviors 3, 4.
- Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of Vyvanse in reducing the symptoms of ADHD and BED, with significant improvements in attention, behavior, and binge eating days per week 3, 4, 6, 7.
- The most common adverse events associated with Vyvanse include dry mouth, insomnia, headache, and decreased appetite, with most events being mild to moderate in severity 3, 4, 6, 7.