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What Vyvanse Is and How It Works in Your Body
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a prescription stimulant medication that is approved to treat ADHD and binge eating disorder in adults. It is a "prodrug," meaning the medication is inactive until it is metabolized in the body. It has a specialized delivery system that converts to an active medication in your body, releasing it slowly over 10 to 14 hours. This gradual release is thought to provide relief without the rapid ups and downs of immediate-release stimulants.
Vyvanse increases the dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps with ADHD symptoms relating to focus, inattention, and impulse control. Like all medications, there are some potential Vyvanse side effects. Understanding how the drug works and is metabolized in the body can help you better understand why certain side effects occur.
This article will go over Vyvanse side effects more in depth so you can better understand what to expect when taking Vyvanse for your ADHD.
Why Side Effects Happen With Stimulant Medications
Vyvanse side effects occur because stimulant drugs interact with the entire central nervous system and not just the parts of the brain related to your ADHD symptoms. Stimulants increase certain activity in the brain and body, which can lead to desired symptom improvement and some unwanted effects, too.
Everyone's body chemistry is different, so side effects vary greatly between people. Experiencing side effects from Vyvanse doesn't mean the medication is ineffective, but it's important to inform your doctor about any side effects you may have.
Sometimes side effects are dose-related, and sometimes they are just the body's way of getting used to the new medicine and may disappear after a couple of weeks of use.
Common Side Effects Most People Experience
There are some side effects from taking Vyvanse that are commonly reported. Most Vyvanse common side effects are manageable. Over time, many of these side effects will improve or disappear altogether as the body gets used to the medication. Experiencing any of these Vyvanse side effects does not mean you should stop taking it, but you may want to let your provider know and keep a side-effect journal to track them.
Appetite Changes and Weight Loss
One of the most common Vyvanse side effects in adults is weight loss. Vyvanse's appetite suppression is mainly due to its effects on the CNS. Increasing levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain reduce your hunger and signal that you are already full. Vyvanse can also speed up metabolism, which can add to the weight-loss effect.
Weight loss is common, especially at the beginning, and you should always monitor it and let your provider know about this side effect, especially if it is significant.
Vyvanse may cause you to forget to eat, so it's a good idea to set meal reminders on your devices and eat a decent amount of food before you take your first dose. You can also try focusing on eating healthy, nutrient-dense foods when you do eat, so your body gets everything it needs to function properly.
Sleep Difficulties and Insomnia
Another common Vyvanse side effect is sleep issues and insomnia. Vyvaynse sleep problems come from stimulating the nervous system. During the day, this can help your ADHD symptoms so you feel like you can accomplish more without the distractions and overwhelm, but if taken too late in the day, Vyvanse can keep you awake at night.
You may also have some "rebounding effects" that can keep you awake. Once the medication wears off, your ADHD symptoms can return strongly. Symptoms like racing thoughts or restlessness may disrupt your sleep or delay it.
Vyvanse is a longer-acting stimulant with effects lasting anywhere from 9 to 14 hours, so most providers suggest taking your medication early in the morning so that by bedtime, it has worn off and you can get some sleep.
Even though Vyvanse sleep issues are common, you should always discuss insomnia with your provider. Sleep issues can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, too, so you really need to get a good night's sleep in order to feel your best.
You may also want to avoid caffeine in the evenings and try to establish a sleep schedule.
Speak with your healthcare provider when sleep issues become a significant disruption, as they may need to adjust your dose or change your medication.
Dry Mouth and Increased Thirst
Some other reported lisdexamfetamine side effects include dry mouth and increased thirst. Stimulant medications like Vyvanse reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth symptoms.
It is a mild diuretic, too, which is why you will get thirstier. However, your natural thirst sensations in the body may get dulled, which can lead to dehydration, so it's a good idea to keep a water bottle and remind yourself to drink water periodically throughout the day.
You could also try chewing sugar-free gum throughout the day to keep stimulating saliva in your mouth. Dry mouth does sometimes clear up after you have been taking Vyvanse for a while, but it could still continue.
Just remember that dehydration can be dangerous, so always try to remain hydrated even if you don't "feel" thirsty.
Headaches and Dizziness
Headaches and dizziness are also a couple of Vyvanse common side effects. Headaches can be a common side effect when starting Vyvanse or when adjusting the dosage, as your body gets used to the medication. Typically, these headaches are related to dehydration or changes in appetite, often due to not eating enough.
Dizziness can occur while taking Vyvanse, especially when standing up too quickly or not eating enough, as this can lead to low blood sugar.
As your body adjusts to the medication, these side effects may ease up. It's important to stay hydrated and eat regularly, even when you don't think you need to, to ensure you dont get dehydrated or experience low blood sugar.
If side effects become severe or persistent, you should reach out to your healthcare provider.
Stomach Discomfort and Nausea
Stomach issues and nausea are common Vyvanse side effects. Because the medication stimulates the nervous system and the "fight or flight" response, the body slows down digestion to concentrate energy on the brain.
Stimulants can also cause the stomach to produce more acid, which can cause some upset stomach. If you take your medication with food, it can help to reduce these symptoms. So it's a good idea not to take your Vyvanse on an empty stomach. If stomach issues become severe, you should reach out to your doctor.
Mood Changes and Irritability
Some people experience mood changes and irritability when taking Vyvanse. Vyvanse mood changes are caused by changes in dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. The increase in these two neurotransmitters helps you focus and stay organized better throughout the day, but can cause you to act a little more on edge, especially as the medication starts to wear off and levels decrease.
Sometimes during the "crash" period, the levels in your brain become too low, which leads to an increase in irritability and mood swings in some people. This is known as a "rebound effect," and symptoms may be worse as the medication leaves your system.
Doseage adjustments can also cause emotional instability. So if your provider increases your dose, you may experience more mood swings until your body gets used to the shift. Sometimes, if you are more sensitive to Vyvanse or your dose is too high, you may have mood swings more often. It's a good idea to track and document when you have mood swings or irritability so that you can determine the cause and ask your doctor to adjust dosage if necessary or switch medications.
Serious Side Effects That Need Immediate Attention
Vyvanse's serious side effects are less common but can occur; if they do, you will want to seek medical evaluation immediately. While severe side effects are rare, it is very important to recognize them. This section is in no way meant to cause alarm, but to help you know when it's best to seek help.
Heart-Related Symptoms
Serious side effects from taking Vyvanse that require medical attention include heart-related problems. Vyvanse cardiovascular effects, such as increasing blood pressure and heart rate, can be dangerous. Some warning signs that you should look out for in you or a loved one who is taking Vyvanse include:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Lightheadedness
- Rapid heart rate
- Shortness of breath
- Stroke symptoms: numbness in one arm, difficulty speaking clearly, or pain in the jaw or face
These symptoms require immediate medical attention and should never be ignored. People with existing heart or blood pressure conditions must be carefully monitored when starting stimulants like Vyvanse, so it's important to tell your doctor if you have had any previous heart-related events or medical history.
Your provider will check your blood pressure and heart rate regularly while you are taking Vyvanse to minimize risks.
Mental Health Changes
Some severe psychiatric side effects can occur while taking Vyvanse. Some Vyvanse serious side effects include:
- Severe anxiety or panic attacks
- Suicidal thoughts or ideations
- Severe mood changes
- Paranoia
- Agression
- Depression
- Mania
- Hallucinations or delusions
New or worsening depression, panic, or thoughts of self-harm require immediate help. While these are uncommon side effects, they can occur in anyone and not just people with a history of mental health issues. It's important that you ask your friends and family to let you know if they notice any drastic mental or behavioral changes because you may not notice them in yourself at first. Please reach out to your doctor immediately if you experience any of these issues because you may need emergency care.
Circulation Problems
As a stimulant, Vyvanse can be a vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows blood vessels, which may limit blood flow to your fingers and toes. This is called Raynaud's phenomenon, and if you experience cold hands or feet or they begin to turn colors like blue or red, then you may be experiencing this circulation issue.
These issues are not usually life-threatening, but you should still report them to your provider so they can determine if you need to adjust your dose or switch medications. Circulation issues may be worse in colder weather.
It's a good idea to limit your caffeine intake, as it can further narrow blood vessels.
Allergic Reactions
In some rare cases, people have had an allergic reaction to lisdexamfetamine. Allergic reactions to Vyvanse can range from mild to severe, including life-threatening symptoms like anaphylaxis. An allergic reaction to Vyvanse can look like:
- Rash
- Itchy skin or hives
- Blistering or peeling
- Swelling, especially in the face
- Stomach cramps
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Wheezing, struggling to breathe
- Fever
- Racing heart rate
You may be having an allergic reaction to the lisdexamfetamine or possibly one of the other secondary ingredients in the medication. If you begin to experience any of these allergic reaction side effects, seek emergency care because a severe allergic reaction is serious and requires immediate action.
How Long Side Effects Last and What to Expect Over Time
So, how long do Vyvanse side effects last?
Many Vyvanse side effects are the strongest when you first start taking the medication and tend to ease up after a few weeks. The first few days to weeks are often when they are most pronounced, as your body begins to get used to the medication. After around 2-4 weeks, many side effects will diminish. If any side effects do not ease up around this time, you may want to talk with your provider, who may adjust your dose or medication.
Some symptoms may persist throughout Vyvanse treatment. If side effects are not manageable and outweigh the benefits of Vyvanse, you and your provider may decide to switch to a different medication instead.
It's important to give your body time to adjust to the medication before giving up or deciding it isn't working. Be open with your provider about any symptoms. You can also keep a symptom journal to track your side effects and see if they improve over time. If side effects do not improve over time or seem to worsen, you should consult your provider.
When to Contact Your Doctor About Side Effects
While some Vyvanse side effects are expected, there are some situations that do require professional help. Let’s look at when to call a doctor about Vyvanse side effects. You should reach out to your provider if:
- Side effects interfere with your day-to-day life: they cause problems at work, at school, at home, or in relationships.
- Side effects worsen instead of getting better: Anytime side effects get worse than they were at the beginning, it could indicate an allergic reaction or a severe issue.
- New symptoms appearing after the first month or so: Any new symptoms appear, such as heart issues or severe mood changes.
- You notice allergic reactions: Any allergic reaction to Vyvanse could be serious and needs to be reported.
- Severe side effects occur: Heart-related side effects, increasing mood instability or aggression, or circulation issues develop.
Don't try to adjust your dose or suddenly stop taking it without your medical provider's guidance, as you can experience Vyvanse withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor can help determine whether your dose needs to be adjusted or whether Vyvanse isn't the best fit.
They want to help you; they will not force you to continue taking a medication that is clearly causing you issues, but they can't know if you don't talk about it.
How Vyvanse Side Effects Compare to Other ADHD Medications
All ADHD medications have potential side effects, but they do vary between types. Let's compare Vyvanse vs. other ADHD medications' side effects and see how they differ. Vyvanse is a longer-acting stimulant called a prodrug. It's designed to cause a smoother onset of effects and a more gradual "come down," as the medication wears off.
When comparing Vyvanse to Adderall and other immediate-release stimulants, it's important to note that immediate-release stimulants take effect more quickly but also wear off sooner. This often leads to a feeling of crashing and fluctuating effects, which some people may experience more intensely than others. Some people tolerate Vyvanse better than other stimulants, but others have the opposite experience.
Then there are non-stimulant medication options, which have different effects and side effects altogether. Finding the correct ADHD treatment for you may take a little trial and error, and that is normal. Medical professionals know this, and they will work with you until you find a medication that works best for your symptoms with the least amount of unwanted side effects as possible.
Side effects alone should never dictate your medication choices; however, effectiveness is very important, too. But you want something that both works and doesn't cause you to feel too uncomfortable. In order for your provider to help accomplish this, you must be open and honest about your experiences so they can better help you find solutions.
Getting Support for ADHD Treatment That Works for You
Managing Vyvanse side effects can often feel overwhelming, especially at first. That's why effective ADHD treatment involves monthly monitoring and adjustment, especially in the beginning, so that you can find something that fits best with your unique body chemistry.
It is crucial to work with ADHD providers who have experience treating ADHD, as they know and understand the nuances associated with it and have experience navigating the medication trial and error process.
ADHD Advisor connects adults with providers who are experienced in treating ADHD specifically. Our providers offer comprehensive care that goes beyond medication but involves ongoing support, monitoring, and adjustments each month.
We offer same-day appointments and online Vyvanse prescriptions if needed, to get you help right away. It's never been easier to manage your ADHD than it is with virtual appointments that fit around your schedule. It's so important to work with a provider who understands ADHD treatment. Take our short quiz to get started with a same-day appointment with one of our ADHD specialized professionals today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common side effects of Vyvanse?
The most common side effects of Vyvanse include dry mouth, upset stomach, insomnia, and decreased appetite.
Does Vyvanse cause weight loss and appetite suppression?
Yes, Vyvanse causes weight loss and appetite suppression, and is actually one of the most reported side effects from taking Vyvanse.
How long do Vyvanse side effects typically last?
The most common Vyvanse side effects last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, as most are temporary as your body gets used to the medication.
Can Vyvanse cause anxiety, mood swings, or irritability?
Yes, Vyvanse is a stimulant, and speeding up your CNS can certainly cause an increase in irritability, anxiety, or mood swings. It's important to mention these side effects to your provider, as they may be due to taking too high a dose, and adjustments may be necessary.
What are the serious side effects of Vyvanse I should watch for?
Some Vyvanse serious side effects to watch for include: heart-related problems, like chest pain or rapid heart rate, psychiatric events like delusional thinking or hallucinations, and stroke-related symptoms like numbness or difficulty speaking.
Does Vyvanse affect heart rate and blood pressure?
Yes, a common Vyvanse side effect is increased heart rate and blood pressure, which is why it's important to be monitored monthly during treatment.
How can I manage insomnia and sleep problems caused by Vyvanse?
You can manage insomnia and other Vyvanse sleep problems by taking your dose earlier in the day and establishing a bedtime routine and a strict sleep schedule.
What is a Vyvanse crash and what are the symptoms?
A Vyvanse crash is a drop in your energy that happens when the medication starts to wear off, and your ADHD symptoms can come back. Symptoms can include feeling tired, irritated, overwhelmed, and a return of your usual ADHD symptoms.
Are there differences in Vyvanse side effects between children and adults?
Yes, adults typically experience more dry mouth, and children may experience more frequent mood changes, slowed growth, and appetite suppression than adults.
What are the long-term side effects of taking Vyvanse?
Some possible long-term side effects of taking Vyvanse can include circulation problems, mental health changes, a risk of physical dependence, and increased blood pressure and heart rate.
