Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a stimulant medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder (BED). Like all medications, Vyvanse can have side effects, and one of the more commonly discussed is its impact on weight. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the relationship between Vyvanse and weight loss, including the potential side effects, the reasons behind weight changes, and what to consider before and during treatment.
What is Vyvanse?
Vyvanse contains the active drug lisdexamfetamine, a type of stimulant drug called an amphetamine. It is available in both oral capsules and chewable tablets. Lisdexamfetamine is a prodrug, meaning it becomes active only after it is converted into dextroamphetamine by the body. This conversion process occurs once the drug is absorbed in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Dextroamphetamine then helps to balance chemicals in the brain, increasing attention and decreasing restlessness.
Lisdexamfetamine is commonly used for the treatment of ADHD, a condition that affects people’s ability to focus and self-control, and binge eating disorder, a condition where people cannot stop eating, even when they feel very full. Lisdexamfetamine increases the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. If you have ADHD, this medicine can help increase attention and decrease impulsiveness (acting without thinking) and hyperactivity. If you have binge eating disorder, it can help you to overeat less often.
Vyvanse is a long-acting drug that is slowly released in the body over many hours. In children ages 6-12 with ADHD, studies have shown that Vyvanse can start working within 1 hour of taking it, and the effects can last up to 10 hours. For adults with ADHD, studies show that it can start working 1 hour after taking it, and the effects can last up to 12 hours after a morning dose. It typically begins working as soon as the first dose, but you may need to take the drug for a few weeks before you start noticing an improvement in your condition.
Common Side Effects of Vyvanse
As with other drugs, Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) can cause side effects, such as headache or sleep problems. If you are unable to tolerate side effects of Vyvanse, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. Vyvanse can cause certain side effects, some of which are more common than others. These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days or weeks. But if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Read also: Weight Loss Effects: Concerta & Vyvanse
The most common side effects of lisdexamfetamine vary depending on why the medication is prescribed.
For the treatment of ADHD, common side effects include:
- Decreased or loss of appetite
- Anxiety
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
For the treatment of binge eating disorder, common side effects include:
- Dry mouth
- Trouble sleeping
- Decreased appetite
- Increased heart rate
- Constipation
- Feeling jittery
- Anxiety
Vyvanse and Weight Loss: Causes and Considerations
Weight loss is a commonly reported side effect of Vyvanse, particularly in individuals taking it for ADHD. This effect is primarily attributed to the drug's appetite-suppressing qualities. Stimulants like Vyvanse can decrease hunger and make individuals feel full for longer periods, leading to reduced food intake and subsequent weight loss.
Loss of Appetite and Decreased Caloric Intake
Vyvanse often suppresses appetite. In adults, this might cause gradual weight loss. In children and teens, it can slow growth. Doctors closely track height and weight in younger patients on stimulants. This can be a significant concern, especially for children and adolescents who need adequate nutrition for growth and development. The decreased appetite can lead to a reduction in overall caloric intake, contributing to weight loss.
Read also: Vyvanse: A Comprehensive Overview
Impact on Metabolism
While the primary mechanism for weight loss with Vyvanse is appetite suppression, stimulants can also have a minor impact on metabolism. They may slightly increase metabolic rate, causing the body to burn more calories at rest. However, this effect is generally less significant than the reduction in caloric intake.
Weight Loss in Children
Children may be more likely to experience certain side effects from Vyvanse, including weight loss and decreased appetite. Rarely, Vyvanse can also cause slowed growth in children. Your child’s doctor will closely monitor your child’s height and weight and compare it to average growth rates for your child’s age. The doctor may temporarily or permanently have your child stop taking Vyvanse if your child shows signs of slowed growth.
Vyvanse Not Approved for Weight Loss
It is important to note that Vyvanse is not approved for weight loss or to treat obesity. Using similar drugs for these purposes has caused serious heart problems. Although weight loss may occur as a side effect, the drug should only be used for its approved indications.
Managing Weight Loss and Appetite Changes
If you or your child experiences weight loss while taking Vyvanse, several strategies can help manage this side effect:
1. Regular Monitoring:Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider to check your child’s height and weight before they start taking lisdexamfetamine and during treatment. Regular monitoring of weight and growth is essential, especially in children. This helps ensure that weight loss does not become excessive or detrimental to overall health.
2. Balanced Diet:Focus on nutrient-dense foods to maximize caloric intake. Include plenty of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in meals and snacks.
3. Frequent, Smaller Meals:Instead of relying on three large meals, try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This can be more manageable when appetite is suppressed.
4. Nutritional Supplements:Consider using nutritional supplements or protein shakes to help meet daily caloric and nutrient needs, especially if appetite remains poor.
5. Timing of Medication:Take lisdexamfetamine in the morning. Avoid taking lisdexamfetamine in the afternoon, because taking it later in the day can make it harder to sleep at night. Taking Vyvanse in the morning, preferably with breakfast, can help minimize appetite suppression during the day.
6. Consult with a Healthcare Provider:Discuss any concerns about weight loss with your doctor or a registered dietitian. They can provide personalized recommendations and strategies to manage this side effect effectively.
Potential Serious Side Effects
While less common, the most serious side effects of lisdexamfetamine are described below, along with what to do if they happen.
Read also: Is Vyvanse a Weight Loss Solution?
Misuse and Addiction:Misusing lisdexamfetamine can lead to substance abuse problems, overdose, and death. Misuse means taking a medicine in a way other than how it was prescribed. Take lisdexamfetamine exactly as prescribed. Do not take extra lisdexamfetamine. Do not snort or inject lisdexamfetamine. You can become dependent on lisdexamfetamine even if you take it exactly as prescribed. Dependence means your body gets used to a medicine or other substance and then “needs” it or you will experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Call your healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest emergency room if you have any of the following serious symptoms related to lisdexamfetamine misuse:
- Increased heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Fast breathing
- Sweating
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling very energetic or restless
- Decreased appetite
- Shaking
- Trouble with coordination
- Flushed skin
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Dilated (unusually large) pupils
- Feeling anxious
- Feeling angry or aggressive
- Thoughts of hurting yourself or others
Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate:Lisdexamfetamine can increase your blood pressure and cause your heart to beat too fast. Your doctor will check your blood pressure and heart rate before starting lisdexamfetamine and during treatment. If you measure your blood pressure and the top number (systolic) is 180 mm Hg or higher or the bottom number (diastolic) is 120 mm Hg or higher, get medical attention right away. Increases in blood pressure may not be noticeable but look out for any of the following symptoms of severely high blood pressure:
- Sudden severe headache
- Chest pain
- Dizziness or confusion
- Trouble breathing
- Nausea/vomiting
- Blurry or other changes to vision
- Anxiety
- Buzzing in the ears
- Nosebleed
- Feeling of skipped heartbeats
If you measure your heart rate and it is more than 100 beats per minute for more than a few minutes while you are resting and not moving around, get medical attention right away. While you may feel no symptoms at all, watch for any of the following symptoms of a very fast heart beat:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Heart palpitations, or feeling of skipped or extra heartbeats
- Racing heart
Mental (Psychiatric) Symptoms:Lisdexamfetamine can cause you to lose touch with reality (psychosis) or can cause an extremely elevated mood (mania). This can happen even if you have never experienced these symptoms before. Tell your healthcare provider about your mental health history and if mental health conditions run in your family. In particular, tell them if you or someone in your family has a history of depression, bipolar disorder, or suicide. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms of psychosis or mania:
- Dramatic increase in energy
- Significant trouble sleeping
- Your thoughts are racing and fast-paced
- Engaging in reckless behavior
- Having unusually grand ideas
- Feeling excessively happy or irritable
- Talking more or faster than usual
- Trouble thinking clearly
- Suspiciousness of others
- Changes in emotions (you feel emotions very strongly or you do not feel emotions at all)
- Hallucinations (you hear or see things that others do not)
- Delusions (you believe things that do not make sense to others, like you have special powers)
- You stop taking care of yourself
Slowed Growth in Children:Lisdexamfetamine can cause children to grow more slowly (both weight and height). Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider to check your child’s height and weight before they start taking lisdexamfetamine and during treatment.
Circulation Problems:Lisdexamfetamine can cause problems with your circulation, including Raynaud’s syndrome. Raynaud’s syndrome can cause your fingers and toes to feel cold, numb, and painful. Your skin might turn blue or pale when it is cold out or you are stressed, then turn red as you warm up. Tell your healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms. The circulation problems can result in wounds on your fingers or toes. Contact your healthcare provider right away if you notice any unexplained wounds on your fingers or toes.
Tics or Tourette’s Syndrome:Lisdexamfetamine can cause or worsen tics, which are short and repetitive movements or sounds like eye blinking or nose-twitching that can be hard to control. If you already have tics or Tourette’s syndrome (a condition where people have tics), lisdexamfetamine can make your symptoms worse. Tell your healthcare provider if you get any new worsening tics or worsening Tourette’s syndrome.
Serotonin Syndrome:Serotonin syndrome is when there is too much of a substance called serotonin in your body. Lisdexamfetamine can cause serotonin syndrome when it is taken alone or with other medicines that affect serotonin. This condition can be life-threatening. Get emergency help if you have any of the following symptoms of serotonin syndrome:
- Sweating, fever, or flushing
- Confusion
- Feeling agitated or restless
- Seeing or hearing unusual things
- Dizziness
- Fast or racing heartbeat
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Muscle twitching, stiffness, or tremor
- Seizures
Severe Allergic Reactions:Lisdexamfetamine may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking lisdexamfetamine and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction:
- Breathing problems or wheezing
- Racing heart
- Fever or general ill feeling
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
- Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
- Stomach cramps
- Joint pain
Precautions and Warnings
Before taking Vyvanse, discuss your health history with your doctor. Vyvanse may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors affecting your health.
Who Should Not Use Lisdexamfetamine?People who are allergic to any of the following should not use lisdexamfetamine:
- Lisdexamfetamine
- Vyvanse
- Any other medicine known as an amphetamine
- Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed
Drug Interactions:Lisdexamfetamine should not be taken while you are using or have used certain other medicines. Before taking lisdexamfetamine, tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using or have used recently.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Using Lisdexamfetamine?Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if lisdexamfetamine is right for you.
In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following:
- High blood pressure
- Circulation problems in your fingers and toes
- Bipolar disorder or mania (very elevated mood)
- Tics (repetitive movements or sounds) or Tourette’s syndrome or a family history of tics or Tourette’s syndrome
- Kidney problems
Also, tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of mental health problems, such as psychosis (losing touch with reality), bipolar disorder, or depression, or if you have a family history of suicide, bipolar illness, or depression. Lisdexamfetamine can cause sudden death in people who have serious heart disease or heart defects. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any problems with your heart. Your healthcare provider should check for heart problems before you start lisdexamfetamine and will likely check your blood pressure and heart rate during treatment.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of a drug or alcohol disorder. Lisdexamfetamine is a controlled substance and may be misused. Lisdexamfetamine may cause harm to an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Do not take lisdexamfetamine while you are breastfeeding. Lisdexamfetamine can pass into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
Interactions with Food, Drinks, and Other Medicines
There are no known interactions between lisdexamfetamine and foods or drinks. It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect lisdexamfetamine. However, the risk of side effects may be increased if you drink alcohol while taking lisdexamfetamine.
Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.
In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using any of the following before taking lisdexamfetamine:
- A monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) within the past 2 weeks, which is a medicine usually used for depression or Parkinson’s disease.
- A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is a medicine commonly used for anxiety and depression
- A serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), which is a medicine commonly used for anxiety and depression
- A tricyclic antidepressant, even if it is not used for depression
- Lithium, which is a medicine for certain mental health conditions
- Tramadol, which is a medicine used to treat pain
- Buspirone, which is a medicine commonly used for anxiety and depression
- Fentanyl, which is a medicine used to treat severe pain
- Tryptophan, which is a supplement that may be used to treat depression and other conditions
- St. John’s wort, which is a supplement that may be used to treat depression
Dosage and Administration
Vyvanse comes in two forms that you’ll take by mouth: capsules and chewable tablets. Each form of Vyvanse comes in the following strengths: 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, and 60 mg. Vyvanse capsules also come in a 70-mg strength. For ADHD and BED, the usual starting dosage is 30 mg of Vyvanse taken once per day. Your doctor may increase your dose over time. The highest dosage of Vyvanse that’s recommended is 70 mg daily.
It’s best to take your Vyvanse dose in the morning. If you take it in the afternoon or evening, Vyvanse may cause insomnia (trouble falling asleep or staying asleep).
You should swallow Vyvanse oral capsules whole. Vyvanse chewable tablets should be chewed completely before swallowing. If you miss a dose of Vyvanse in the morning, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. But keep in mind that taking Vyvanse in the afternoon or evening can cause problems with sleep.
Long-Term Effects of Vyvanse
Using Vyvanse daily for months or years can bring additional concerns. Not everyone will experience these, but being aware of them helps you act early.
Cardiovascular strain: Chronic stimulant use can raise blood pressure and speed up the heart. This extra strain on the heart and blood vessels can increase the risk of heart problems, including heart attack or stroke.
Circulation problems (Raynaud’s phenomenon): Vyvanse can constrict blood vessels. Long-term use may lead to poor circulation in the fingers and toes.
Sleep disturbances: Even if you adjust your dose, taking a stimulant daily can sometimes lead to chronic sleep issues.
Appetite changes and growth effects: Vyvanse often suppresses appetite. In adults, this might cause gradual weight loss. In children and teens, it can slow growth.
Nutritional deficiencies: Related to appetite suppression, long-term users might not eat enough vitamins and minerals.
Emotional and mood changes: While Vyvanse helps many people stabilize their moods by treating ADHD, some individuals notice new or worsened emotional symptoms over long-term use. This can include increased anxiety, irritability, or agitation. In rare cases, extended stimulant exposure can trigger mania or psychosis.
Tolerance and dependence: The body can adapt to stimulants. Over time, you might notice the same dose of Vyvanse feels less effective (tolerance). Physical dependence can also develop, meaning if you stop Vyvanse suddenly, you could experience withdrawal symptoms like extreme fatigue, depression, or intense cravings.
Rebound or “crash”: As the medication wears off each day, some patients feel a rebound effect: suddenly feeling very tired, irritable, or low in mood.