Vyvanse™ is a medication that is prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a type of drug known as a central nervous system stimulant. That means that it acts on certain nerves and chemicals that are associated with hyperactivity, as well as a person’s impulse control. Vyvanse™ can be taken by adults or children who are at least six years old.
Doctors typically recommend that patients take Vyvanse™ in the morning to control ADHD symptoms throughout the day. Patients may notice an improvement in symptoms within the first week of taking this medication. Parents of children who have trouble swallowing pills may break open the capsule and dissolve it in water. Vyvanse™ should not be taken with vitamin C or fruit juices, as these may interfere with the medication’s absorption.
This medication may cause some side effects. Patients may experience nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. They may also notice problems sleeping, irritability, and blurred vision. Other possible side effects are loss of appetite, weight loss, and dry mouth.
Patients may also experience more severe side effects, which will require immediate medical attention. These may include symptoms of low blood pressure — such as feeling faint or light-headed — as well as extremely high blood pressure, which can exhibit as chest pain, seizure, and a buzzing in the ears. Users may also experience hallucinations, unusual behaviors, and muscle twitching, as well as a pounding heartbeat and anxiety.
Doctors should advise patients to be careful not to take more than the prescribed dose. An overdose may be fatal. Some possible symptoms of an overdose are coma, dark-colored urine, and flu-like symptoms. Some users may also be abnormally aggressive.
Vyvanse™ may not be suitable for all ADHD patients. Those with glaucoma, severe anxiety, and a history of alcohol or drug abuse should not use this medication. Patients who have an overactive thyroid, heart disease, or hypertension should also consider other medication options. Some pre-existing medical conditions may necessitate an adjusted dose to take Vyvanse™, such as Tourette’s syndrome, seizure disorder, or a congenital heart defect. Vyvanse™ may harm an unborn or nursing baby.
This medication has the potential to interact with other medications. It may not combine well with diuretics, allergy or cold medicines, and pain relievers. Patients taking blood pressure medications, ascorbic acid, or antidepressants may be unable to use Vyvanse™.
In addition to these precautions, those using this medication should be aware that the drug has the potential to be abused. Patients should carefully keep track of how much they have taken and how much they have left. Parents of children taking this drug should monitor their child’s growth, as the drug may interfere with physical development. Doctors can help advise their patients regarding the possible benefits versus the potential risks of using this medicine.