Is Vyvanse Addictive? Vyvanse Addiction Symptoms & Treatment

What is Vyvanse?

Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) is a prescription medication used to help manage the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults and children six years and older and Binge Eating Disorder (BED) in adults.

Vyvanse’s effects stem from its interactions with certain natural substances of the brain. Vyvanse controls the amount of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. The adjustment in number positively affects attention, focus, and impulse control — a definite benefit for those dealing with ADHD.

Vyvanse stands out from other prescription stimulants with a particularly distinctive characteristic: At its core, Vyvanse contains lisdexamfetamine, a prodrug that undergoes metabolic conversion in the body, transforming into dextroamphetamine. Only then will any of Vyvanse’s effects be felt. This design makes it more complicated and less effective for those who plan to misuse Vyvanse by snorting or injecting it. Additional properties of this drug also delay the body’s absorption, disincentivizing oral misuse by taking large doses.

Side Effects of Vyvanse

The most commonly reported side effects of Vyvanse are as follows:

• Sleepiness.
• Dizziness.
• Headache.
• Dry mouth.
• Constipation.
• Diarrhea.
• Nausea.
• Weight loss.

Read more about Vyvanse’s effects here:

Is Vyvanse Addictive?

While Vyvanse’s design attempts to minimize the potential for misuse, its stimulating effects still hold a degree of appeal for some individuals.

The risk of psychological dependence can happen quickly as users become accustomed to the positive effects of Vyvanse. The desire for sustained productivity and improved concentration might inadvertently evolve into a reliance on the medication. And in turn, this reliance can become addiction.

Here are some physical signs that can be tell of a Vyvanse Addiction.

• Abnormally high levels of energy.
• Excessive sense of self-esteem and self-confidence.
• Aggressive, hostile, angry, or anxious outbursts.
• Changes in mood or personality.
• Sudden lows follow extreme highs.
• Sudden health or financial difficulties.

Symptoms Of Vyvanse Abuse

Vyvanse, with its prodrug intricacies and designed safeguards, occasionally finds itself misused. Its allure lies in the promise of heightened focus and cognitive prowess.

The gradual release of dextroamphetamine, a result of Vyvanse’s metabolic transformation, unfolds like a double-edged sword. While it renders the highs and lows of Vyvanse mild, it also slows the descent into a euphoric state that, otherwise, would have been appealing to those wishing to misuse Vyvanse.

People who are abusing Vyvanse may exhibit the following signs:

• Taking Vyvanse without a prescription or taking higher doses than prescribed.
• Compulsive drug-seeking and drug usage.
• Continuing to use Vyvanse even when there are adverse side effects or consequences.
• Trying to cut down or stop Vyvanse was unsuccessful.
• Being increasingly secretive or changing routines.
• Putting oneself in dangerous situations to obtain more Vyvanse or use it.
• Withdrawing from loved ones and responsibilities like school or work.
• The need to take more of the drug to achieve the desired effects.

Dangers of Vyvanse Addiction

Addiction itself is already dangerous, in and of itself. However, addiction and prolonged use of an addictive drug will exacerbate and complicate the harmful effects of the medication. Below is a list of the adverse effects that someone addicted to Vyvanse might experience.

• Disrupted sleep patterns.
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure.
• Loss of appetite and weight changes.
• Heightened anxiety or agitation.
• Potential for cardiovascular complications.
• Psychological dependence.
• Impaired social and occupational functioning.
• Mood swings and irritability.
• Risk of overdose.
• Withdrawal symptoms upon cessation.

As someone continues to misuse Vyvanse, the potential for an overdose and even death due to different complications increases.

Learn More:

• Vyvanse Side Effects. What You Should Know About Vyvanse.
• Vyvanse Detox, Specifics, Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline, Medications, Dangers & Treatment
• Can You Snort Vyvanse? Is Snorting Vyvanse Dangerous?
• How long do amphetamines stay in your system? Peak Levels, Half-Life, Factors of Influence, Amphetamine Addiction, Withdrawal & Treatment
• Amphetamine withdrawal, Abuse, Symptoms, Medical Detox & Treatment for Addiction
• Amphetamine addiction, Types, Abuse, Signs, Dangers, Side Effects & Treatment Options
• Amphetamine psychosis, Symptoms, Withdrawal Psychosis, Signs of Addiction & Treatment
• Amphetamine effects, Types, Addiction, Effects on the Brain, Harmful Effects & Treatment Options
• Amphetamine vs Methamphetamine, Main Differences, Stimulants Specifics, Deadly Potential & Treatment Options

Addiction Treatment Centers

Addiction treatment centers are a popular measure to help people overcome seeking and using drugs. In some instances, treatment centers may be gender- (such as female only) or age-specific (adults only) to provide these groups with the level of care they need.

Medication

Certain drugs help manage the withdrawal symptoms of Vyvanse addiction. These include medications that stabilize neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, or serotonin. These drugs can help to provide relief from withdrawal effects and may help to prevent a relapse.

Behavioral Therapies

Therapy is another sought-after treatment option for managing substance use disorders. Through methods like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for addiction, patients can learn more positive attitudes and behavior patterns concerning drug use. This treatment method may also teach healthier ways to cope with daily life and challenges that may encourage drug use as an escape.

Vyvanse Detox Timeline