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SIDE EFFECTS & SAFETY

It's important to know the potential benefits and risks of any ADHD medication you may take, including Vyvanse.

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Abuse and dependence

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) is a federally controlled substance (CII) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep Vyvanse in a safe place to prevent misuse and abuse. Selling or giving away Vyvanse may harm others and is against the law.

Tell the doctor if you have ever abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines, or street drugs.

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Who should not take Vyvanse?

You should not take Vyvanse if you:

  • Are taking or have taken within the past 14 days an anti-depression medicine called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
  • Are sensitive to, allergic to, or had a reaction to other stimulant medicines

SIDE EFFECTS & RISK INFORMATION

Vyvanse is a stimulant medicine. The following have been reported with use of stimulant medicines.

Vyvanse® common side effects icon.

The most common side effects of Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) reported in ADHD studies were:

  • loss of appetite
    (anorexia)
  • decreased appetite
  • diarrhea
  • dry mouth
  • trouble sleeping
  • stomach pain
  • anxiety
  • weight loss
  • dizziness
  • irritability
  • nausea
  • vomiting

These are not all the possible side effects of Vyvanse. Ask the doctor or pharmacist for more information, and talk to the doctor about any side effects you or your child may be experiencing.

Vyvanse® heart‐related problems Icon.

Heart-related problems, including:

  • Sudden death in people who have heart problems or heart defects
  • Sudden death, stroke, and heart attack in adults
  • Increased blood pressure and heart rate

Tell the doctor about any heart problems, heart defects, and/or high blood pressure, or if you have a family history of these problems. The doctor should check blood pressure and heart rate regularly during treatment.

Call your doctor right away if you have any signs of heart problems, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, while taking Vyvanse.

Vyvanse® mental (psychiatric) problems icon.

Mental (psychiatric) problems, including:

  • New or worse behavior and thought problems
  • New or worse bipolar illness
  • New or worse psychotic symptoms, such as:
    • Seeing things or hearing voices that are not real
    • Believing things that are not true
    • Being suspicious
  • New or worse manic symptoms

Tell your doctor about any mental problems you have, or if you have a family history of suicide, bipolar illness, or depression.

Call the doctor to discuss any new or worsening mental symptoms or problems while taking Vyvanse.

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Circulation problems in fingers and toes (peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud's phenomenon):

  • Fingers or toes may feel numb, cool, painful, sensitive to temperature, and/or change color from pale, to blue, to red.

Tell your doctor if you have numbness, pain, skin color change, or sensitivity to temperature in your fingers or toes.

Call the doctor to report these signs or symptoms or if any unexplained wounds on fingers or toes appear while taking Vyvanse.

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Slowing of growth (height and weight) in children

Your child should have his or her height and weight checked often while taking Vyvanse for ADHD. The doctor may stop treatment if a problem is found during these check-ups.

Vyvanse® serotonin syndrome Icon.

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome, including:

  • Agitation, hallucinations, coma, or changes in mental status
  • Problems controlling movements or muscle twitching, stiffness, or tightness
  • Fast heartbeat, sweating, or fever
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Call your doctor or go to the emergency room if symptoms occur. Serotonin syndrome may occur if Vyvanse is taken with certain medicines and may be life-threatening.

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Tell the doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or plan to become pregnant or breastfeed.

Vyvanse® kidney issues Icon.

Tell your doctor if you have any kidney problems. Your doctor may lower your dose.

Please see the Vyvanse Medication Guide for more information. If you or your child are experiencing any side effects while taking Vyvanse, let your doctor know.


Proper use of prescription stimulant medication

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Talking with your doctor

Information to help prepare you for a conversation with your doctor.

LEARN MORE
Vyvanse® dosing Icon.

How to take Vyvanse

Learn more about dosing and administration for Vyvanse.

SEE DETAILS