Vyvanse is considered a safe medication when used as directed by a physician, but misuse or abuse of the medication is associated with the risk of dependence and addiction. For this reason, the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) designates Vyvanse a Schedule II drug.

What Is Vyvanse Used For?

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is prescribed for managing ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) in both children and adults. The drug also has FDA approval for treating binge eating disorder in adults. Vyvanse, classified as a stimulant medication, enhances brain activity, leading to improved attention and focus in individuals with ADHD. That said, it can also induce euphoria, boost energy levels, and curb appetite. This makes Vyvanse prone to misuse for recreational, academic, or weight loss purposes. Additionally, the use of stimulants like Vyvanse can trigger a range of physical effects.

Is Vyvanse Addictive?

It is possible to become addicted to Vyvanse. Misusing the medication can result in complications and elevate the risk of the following:

• Tolerance: This refers to the phenomenon where individuals develop a reduced response to the effects of Vyvanse over time, necessitating increased doses to achieve the desired outcomes.
• Physical dependence: Prolonged Vyvanse abuse can lead to the development of physical dependence. In this state, the body adapts to the continuous presence of Vyvanse, and its absence may trigger withdrawal symptoms.
• Addiction: Vyvanse abuse carries the risk of addiction (substance use disorder), a progressive and chronic condition characterized by a compulsive need to use the drug despite adverse effects.

It is imperative to recognize the potential risks associated with Vyvanse abuse and seek professional help if there are concerns about dependency or addiction.

Vyvanse Side Effects

Vyvanse, despite its therapeutic benefits, can manifest various adverse side effects.

Common adverse reactions include:

• Increased heart rate
• Dry mouth
• Anorexia
• Insomnia
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Anxiety
• Appetite and weight loss
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Irritability
• Abdominal pain

Serious cardiovascular and psychiatric risks include:

• Growth suppression in children
• Circulation problems
• Serotonin syndrome

Vyvanse FAQs

Is Vyvanse a Controlled Substance?

Yes, Vyvanse is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence.

What Is the Difference Between Vyvanse and Adderall?

While both Vyvanse and Adderall are stimulant medications used to treat ADHD, Vyvanse contains lisdexamfetamine, a prodrug that converts into dextroamphetamine, while Adderall is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts.

Can You Overdose on Vyvanse?

Yes, an overdose of Vyvanse can occur, leading to serious symptoms such as restlessness, tremors, rapid breathing, hallucinations, panic, aggressiveness, and seizures.

Is Vyvanse a Narcotic?

No, Vyvanse is not classified as a narcotic. It is a central nervous system stimulant used to treat ADHD and binge eating disorder.

Get Treatment for Vyvanse Addiction at Gratitude Lodge

If you are ready to commit to recovery from Vyvanse addiction, we can help you from detox to discharge and beyond at Gratitude Lodge in Newport Beach and Long Beach, CA.

Supervised medical detoxification is the safest approach to detoxing from prescription stimulants. After a tapered reduction and medical monitoring, you can transition into inpatient treatment.

Our residential rehab program includes:

• Individual and group counseling
• Family therapy
• Psychotherapy
• Holistic treatments
• Medication-assisted treatment

Call 844-576-0144 when you are committed to recovering from stimulant addiction.

Sources

1. https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/schedules/
2. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a607047.html
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3860466/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8583742/
5. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001522.htm
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482377/