Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse®)

What is Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate?

Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, commonly sold under the brand name Vyvanse®, is a controlled substance used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children over the age of 6, as well as moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED).

This medication is classified as a central nervous system stimulant (CNS) and is only available through prescription from a medical doctor.

Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate works by increasing attention and decreasing restlessness in individuals who are overactive, cannot concentrate for very long, are impulsive or easily distracted. This medication is usually used as part of a more comprehensive treatment plan, which involves social, educational and psychological components too.

It is necessary for this medication to be controlled as it has been known to be addictive for some users (leading to substance abuse). The medication is available as a capsule with a standard starting dose of 30 milligrams per day. Dosages may be gradually increased by a medical doctor to assess at which level an individual is responding best. Dosages may not exceed 70 milligrams per day.

Common side effects with this medication include headache, anxiety, loss of appetite, nausea and or / vomiting, insomnia or problems sleeping, and weight loss.

Further complications can include an increased risk of heart attack, stroke or even sudden death. It is thus very important for you to discuss any medical conditions, or family history of medical conditions with your doctor before accepting a prescription of this drug. Your doctor will need to assess your levels of risk for possible complications before prescribing the medication for treatment purposes.

What is Lisdexamfetamine / Vyvanse used for?

Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate is a stimulant and belongs to a class of drugs known as amphetamines which works by restoring the balance of neurotransmitters (natural chemicals) in the brain.

For those who require treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Vyvanse helps to increase their ability to pay attention and focus, as well as reduce restlessness (stop fidgeting).

For those with a binge eating disorder (BED), the medication helps a person to significantly reduce the number of binge eating days.

This medication is not recommended for weight loss purposes or the safe treatment of obesity.