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Lisdexamfetamine

Brand names: Vyvanse

Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) is a long-acting stimulant for ADHD and moderate to severe binge eating disorder.

Brand namesVyvanse
Type of medicineStimulant (ADHD medicine)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It's a 'prodrug' that the body turns into dextroamphetamine, giving a smooth, all-day effect. It's a controlled substance.

What it's used for

  • ADHD in children 6 and older and adults
  • Moderate to severe binge eating disorder in adults (not for weight loss)

How to take it

  • Take it once in the morning.
  • Capsules can be opened and mixed into water, yogurt, or orange juice; take it right away.
  • Keep it locked up and never share it.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Less appetite
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Dry mouth
  • Irritability
  • Stomachache
Call 911Chest pain, fainting, or shortness of breath
Call 911Weakness on one side or trouble speaking
Call your provider todaySeeing or hearing things, new paranoia, or mania
Call your provider todayFingers or toes that turn pale, blue, or painful (circulation problems)
Call 911Agitation, fever, sweating, muscle twitching or stiffness, fast heartbeat, and confusion (possible serotonin syndrome)

Warnings

  • Boxed warning: stimulants have a high risk of misuse and addiction. Keep them locked up and never share them.
  • Your provider will check growth in children, plus heart rate and blood pressure.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Never take within 14 days of an MAOI.
  • Decongestants, caffeine, and other stimulants add to heart and blood pressure effects.
  • Antidepressants and other serotonin medicines raise the risk of serotonin syndrome (amphetamines).

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider about benefits and risks.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.