Vyvanse is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children 6 years of age and older. It is in a class of medications called stimulants. It works by changing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. This medication should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken in the morning and may be taken with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible in the morning hours. If it is late in the day or near time of next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double a dose to make up for a missed one. Do not flush this medication down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly dispose of any unused or expired medication by contacting your local waste disposal company.
Some people taking this medication develop a serious reaction that can be life-threatening. Get emergency medical help right away if you have signs of a severe allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat; agitation; or hallucinations. It may also cause changes in your blood pressure or heart rate. This medication should not be used by patients who have certain health problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, or congenital heart defects; blood circulation problems, such as Raynaud’s syndrome (disease of the small blood vessels in the fingers and toes); or a history of substance use disorder.
This medication can interact with some other medicines. It can increase the risk of a dangerous side effect called serotonin syndrome if it is taken with antidepressants, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants. Serotonin syndrome symptoms include agitation, confusion, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heartbeat, changes in blood pressure, muscle stiffness or twitching, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
If you have a psychiatric illness, including bipolar disorder or depression, Vyvanse may worsen your condition. It can cause or exacerbate psychiatric problems, such as suicidal thoughts or actions; agitation; and mania. It may also increase the risk of impulsive behavior and aggressiveness.
Long-term use of this medication can affect growth in children. Talk to your doctor if your child’s height and weight are not growing as expected.
This medication can pass into breast milk and harm a nursing baby. Do not breastfeed while taking this medication. If your child is using this medication, speak to your doctor before breastfeeding. Children should be kept up-to-date on all immunizations while they are taking this medication. vyvanse 50 mg capsule