thoughtscape NP Psychiatry · Patient education
Lisdexamfetamine
Vyvanse • Capsules or chewable tablets
A once-daily medicine for ADHD or binge-eating disorder. The aim is a more manageable day—not a stimulant rush.
Draft for review · Clinical content has not been revalidated for this website.
Schedule II medicine • Take only as prescribed. Do not use for weight loss or share with anyone.
What it is used for
Treats ADHD from age 6 and moderate-to-severe binge-eating disorder in adults. It is not for weight loss or ordinary overeating.
Keep your ADHD supports or eating-disorder care. Ask which condition your team is treating.
How it works
Your blood converts absorbed medicine into dextroamphetamine and L-lysine. The active drug changes dopamine and norepinephrine signaling.
Conversion gives a longer effect, but does not prevent misuse, addiction, or overdose. Never take extra.
What to expect over time
THE FIRST DOSES
Benefit may begin the first day. Timing and duration vary.
THE FIRST FEW WEEKS
Your team adjusts the dose while checking benefit, sleep, and appetite.
THE RIGHT FIT
Look for better daily function or fewer binges—not feeling wired or losing weight.
Taking your medication
Take your prescribed dose each morning, with or without food. Avoid afternoon or evening doses; they can disrupt sleep.
Swallow capsules whole, or mix ALL contents into yogurt, water, or orange juice. Stir well and consume immediately. Do not save or divide the mixture.
Chew chewable tablets fully before swallowing. Do not switch from another stimulant using the same dose. Only your prescriber changes the dose.
When to get help
Call 911: chest pain, fainting, severe breathing trouble, stroke symptoms, seizure, or severe allergy. Fever with confusion and stiff/twitching muscles may be serotonin syndrome.
Get urgent advice: hallucinations, paranoia, or manic symptoms—do not take more while seeking care. Report finger/toe sores or color changes. Severe belly pain, blistering rash, or a painful/prolonged erection needs urgent care.
Possible overdose? Call Poison Control now: 1-800-222-1222. Do not wait for symptoms. Call 911 for severe symptoms or if you cannot stay safe.
Early side effects
Less appetite, dry mouth, headache, stomach upset, jitteriness, and trouble sleeping can occur. Tell your team if these persist or interfere with your day.
Other effects to discuss
Report weight loss, late-day crashes, sexual changes, new tics, or feeling flat. BP/pulse can rise; children need height and weight checks.
What to keep track of
Track sleep, appetite, mood, and function; for BED, track binge episodes and distress—not weight.
Before you start
Discuss heart disease, fainting, family sudden death, high BP, bipolar disorder/psychosis, tics, seizures, circulation/eye/thyroid problems, kidney disease, and pregnancy/nursing. Share all medicines and substance use. Tell your imaging team before a DAT scan; this medicine can affect results. Avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
Medicines & interactions
MAOIs: do not combine
Do not take it during or within 14 days after an MAOI, including linezolid or IV methylene blue. Any switch needs your clinician's timing plan.
Antidepressants and other medicines
SSRIs/SNRIs, tramadol, triptans, lithium, buspirone, and St. John's wort can increase serotonin-syndrome risk. Fluoxetine, paroxetine, or bupropion may raise exposure.
Cold remedies and supplements
Decongestants and other stimulants can raise pulse/BP. Baking soda and acidifying supplements can alter drug levels. Ask before use; never use them to change your dose.
Alcohol, caffeine, and your medicine list
Discuss alcohol; limit excess caffeine and energy drinks. Review BP medicines and antipsychotics with your team. Do not change them yourself.
Everyday tips
Eat regular meals even when less hungry; keep your nutrition plan.
Use routines, reminders, or ADHD coaching and school/work supports.
Keep a sleep schedule. Extra doses do not replace sleep.
For BED, use therapy and planned eating support; keep follow-ups.
Your questions, answered
What if I miss a dose?
Never double. Avoid an afternoon or evening catch-up dose. If it is no longer morning, skip it and resume the next morning unless your prescriber gave a different plan.
Will it change my personality?
It should support your goals. Feeling flat, irritable, overly driven, or unlike yourself deserves a treatment review. Report dry mouth too; hydration and dental care help.
Can I stop or become dependent?
Physical dependence can happen even with prescribed use and differs from addiction. Plan stopping with your team; fatigue, low mood, and returning symptoms may follow. Severe depression needs urgent help.
What about pregnancy or nursing?
Contact your prescriber and pregnancy team to make a plan rather than stopping alone. The label advises against breastfeeding. Discuss treatment and feeding options before nursing while taking it.
Storage & safety
Keep in the original, tightly closed container at room temperature, protected from light, heat and moisture and locked away from children and others. Never share. Plan prescriptions ahead and use pharmacy take-back for unused medicine.
About this information
For general information only; not a substitute for individualized medical advice. This sheet does not cover every risk or interaction. Ask your prescriber or pharmacist before changing how you take this medication.
Sources
Educational inclusion does not mean this medication or its indications are treated at this practice. Review the guide for your exact product with your prescriber or pharmacist.