Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a prescription drug that has helped millions of people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). One of the more recent additions to the range of ADHD medications, Vyvanse provided an important alternative for many children and adults.
In 2015, Vyvanse became the first medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of binge eating disorder (BED). It helps improve impulse control, leading to fewer binge eating days and a lower risk of rehab.
But Vyvanse is in the class of drugs known as stimulants, which have the potential for addiction and misuse. This has been an issue with many other stimulants prescribed for ADHD, which itself influenced the development of this alternative.
Let’s take a look at how Vyvanse came to be and what the risks are regarding its potential for misuse and overdose.
Why Was Vyvanse Developed?
Stimulants like Ritalin and Concerta had been approved for use to treat ADHD for decades before Vyvanse was developed. Why did researchers look for an alternative in the same class of drugs?
The Addiction Angle
Stimulants primarily increase the levels of two neurotransmitters: dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals play key roles in attention, focus, and behavior regulation.
Dopamine does so by improving concentration and reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity, which are core symptoms of ADHD. Dopamine is also known as the hormone that rewards us with a rush of pleasure.
Norepinephrine affects alertness, arousal, and response to stimuli, helping with focus.
Understandably, these effects are highly desirable to many people, with or without ADHD. As such, stimulants became sought after for recreational use and have a high risk of dependency.
Vyvanse works in a similar way to Ritalin and Concerta, but it is what’s known as a prodrug. Prodrugs are inactive until they are metabolized by the body. The lack of an immediate impact lowers the risk of addiction and misuse.
This is one important reason for the development of Vyvanse.
It Lasts Longer
One of the issues people have with other stimulants is that they are relatively short-acting. Vyvanse, on the other hand, has a slow release system that keeps it active for up to fourteen hours a day.
This helps people with ADHD create a more balanced and sustainable lifestyle. While there are also long-acting forms of other stimulants prescribed for ADHD, they do not tend to last as long as Vyvanse.
Individual Differences
Finally, the need for alternatives is impacted by the fact that different ADHD medications are metabolized differently by each individual. As such, what works for one person may do nothing for another.
This is true even when the class of drugs is the same. One person may excel on Ritalin but not respond to Vyvanse. For another, the opposite is true.
Is Vyvanse Addictive?
Considering that a benefit of Vyvanse is that it has less propensity for addiction than other stimulants, do we really need to worry about misuse and overdose?
Unfortunately, all stimulants can be abused. Many people find their benefits desirable even when they are not trying to manage the symptoms of ADHD. In fact, stimulants like Vyvanse are classed as Schedule II drugs by the FDA, indicating their high potential for misuse. This makes them more difficult to acquire and repeat prescriptions are not accepted.
Vyvanse is less risky than some other stimulants, but it nonetheless is misused. Research has also found that at higher doses, it has about as much potential for building dependency as other stimulants prescribed for ADHD.
What Happens in a Vyvanse Overdose?
A Vyvanse overdose can result in a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, and can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of an overdose is crucial for seeking timely medical intervention. Here are the signs to look out for:
Physical Symptoms
- Rapid Heart Rate (Tachycardia): An abnormally fast heart rate can occur, which may feel like palpitations or a pounding heart.
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Elevated blood pressure can lead to headaches, dizziness, and an increased risk of stroke or heart attack.
- Chest Pain: This can be a sign of cardiovascular distress and requires immediate medical attention.
- Seizures: Sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain.
- Tremors: Uncontrollable shaking or trembling can occur, particularly in the hands.
- Hyperthermia: An abnormally high body temperature, which can lead to complications such as dehydration and heatstroke.
- Nausea and Vomiting: These are common symptoms of stimulant overdose.
- Abdominal Pain: Pain or discomfort in the stomach area.
Psychological Symptoms
- Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Often accompanied by restlessness and agitation.
- Paranoia and Hallucinations: Irrational fear or mistrust and seeing or hearing things that aren’t there.
- Confusion and Disorientation: Cognitive impairment and difficulty thinking clearly.
In severe cases, a Vyvanse overdose can lead to a loss of consciousness and potential heart failure.
What to do About a Vyvanse Overdose
If you or a person you know is experiencing any of the symptoms above after taking Vyvanse, seek medical help immediately. Vyvanse overdose is potentially fatal. Prompt medical attention can save lives.
Misuse of Vyvanse that leads to an overdose can also have long-term impacts on a person’s physical and mental health. Watch out for any signs of recurring problems over the following weeks and months.
Conclusion
With this in mind, it is crucial to remember that Vyvanse can be addictive and its misuse can lead to overdose. Never take more than the dosage prescribed by your doctor and do not share unused pills with anyone else. Vyvanse has a lower potential for misuse than some other stimulants, but there is still a real risk of overdose that can be fatal.