Vyvanse is the brand name for a prescription medication containing the active ingredient lisdexamfetamine dimesylate. Vyvanse treats ADHD in both adults and children and binge-eating disorder in adults.
Vyvanse belongs to a class of medications known as central nervous system stimulants. It improves attention span and impulsive behavior by changing the amounts of specific brain chemicals, like dopamine and norepinephrine.
As with any medication, Vyvanse can have side effects as well as produce other reactions. One of these reactions is called a Vyvanse crash.
What is a Vyvanse crash?
A Vyvanse crash happens when the medication starts to wear off, and symptoms of the conditions it’s treating may start to reappear.
After you take a dose of Vyvanse, it remains in your system for a couple of days, but its levels decrease as time passes. You may feel some symptoms of the condition return or become stronger.
Only half of the medication remains in your body 12 hours after taking a dose of Vyvanse. Still, it’s one of the longest-acting stimulants, and its effects can last up to 14 hours.
Other symptoms of a Vyvanse crash often include:
- fatigue (low energy)
- irritability
- feeling anxious
- shakiness
- sleep difficulties
Usually, you’ll experience a Vyvanse crash in the afternoon or evening. A 2016 study in children with ADHD suggests that most experienced a return of symptoms in the evening hours.
Vyvanse crash vs. withdrawal
A Vyvanse crash isn’t the same as a Vyvanse withdrawal.
A Vyvanse crash happens even when you’re consistently taking the medication as a doctor or healthcare professional prescribes, but the medication levels in your body get lower toward the end of the day.
Withdrawal happens a few days after you stop taking the medication.
The level and severity of symptoms are different, too. A crash has milder symptoms that appear faster, while withdrawal symptoms are more severe and happen a short time after you stop taking the medication.
Vyvanse withdrawal symptoms are similar but are stronger and more severe. They include:
- irritability
- changes in mood
- anxiety
- depression
- insomnia
- drowsiness
- headaches
- appetite changes
Who is Vyvanse good for?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves Vyvanse to treat ADHD in adults and children and binge eating disorder in adults.
Children ages 6 years and older with ADHD can take the medication, which comes in a capsule or chewable tablet.
Healthcare professionals usually prescribe Vyvanse to improve attention and focus, and slow hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Still, Vyvanse may not be suitable for everyone. Doctors don’t recommend the medication if you:
- are pregnant or nursing
- have a heart condition
- have a circulatory condition
- are taking specific medications, like monoamine oxidase inhibitors that treat depression
It’s also worth noting that Vyvanse has a high risk of misuse and dependency, and it may also slow growth in children.
How to manage the symptoms of a Vyvanse crash?
If a doctor or healthcare professional prescribes Vyvanse, you can take certain steps to manage crash symptoms, or to minimize the risk of crash. These include:
- taking the medication exactly as prescribed by a doctor or healthcare professional
- taking the medication at the same time each day, preferably in the morning
- setting an alarm to remind yourself to take the medication. If you forget or skip a dose, wait till the next time you would have been due to take the medication, and don’t double the dose.
- eating a balanced diet
- getting regular physical activity (if you can)
- avoiding or limiting alcohol (if you drink)
- getting good quality sleep
If you find it difficult to tolerate the symptoms of a Vyvanse crash, or if they continue longer than expected, talk with a healthcare professional, as they can offer further advice.
Changing your medications
A healthcare professional may consider changing your ADHD medication if the side effects of Vyvanse outweigh its benefits.
They may also consider prescribing other ADHD medications if it’s not suitable for you. Other ADHD medications include:
- Other stimulants: Other stimulants can help address symptoms of ADHD. Some of these include:
- amphetamine (Evekeo)
- dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine)
- dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)
- methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
- Nonstimulants: Nonstimulants take longer to ease ADHD symptoms. Nonstimulant options include:
- atomoxetine (Strattera)
- bupropion (Wellbutrin)
- clonidine (Catapres)
- guanfacine (Intuniv)
- viloxazine (Qelbree)
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