Vyvanse Withdrawal Symptoms, Detox & Treatment

Prescription stimulant medications, such as Vyvanse, can be used to effectively manage symptoms associated with ADHD and other conditions.¹ Vyvanse was developed to have an increased safety profile over other amphetamines, however, Vyvanse can still be misused, potentially resulting in a stimulant use disorder.²

In this article, we will give an overview of Vyvanse use and misuse, as well as learn more about amphetamine dependence, withdrawal, and how to seek treatment for stimulant use disorder.

What is Vyvanse?

Known generically as lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, Vyvanse is a prescription stimulant medication used to treat both attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder (BED).²  Vyvanse is a prodrug of amphetamine, meaning that it does not begin working until it is metabolized in the body.³

Once metabolized, Vyvanse converts to dextroamphetamine, the active ingredient in other prescription stimulants including Dexedrine and Adderall.^1,3 This process of conversion is thought to enhance the safety of Vyvanse, as it takes time for it to reach peak concentrations and has a longer mechanism of action.³ As Vyvanse is converted into dextroamphetamine, it works like other stimulants by increasing alertness, focus, and energy in those with ADHD.¹

Like other prescription amphetamines, the use of Vyvanse can produce some unfavorable side effects, such as dry mouth, trouble sleeping, decreased appetite, and anxiety.¹ Doctors will work individually with patients to determine if the benefits of this medication outweigh the risks prior to prescribing it to them.

Vyvanse, like all amphetamines, carries a potential for misuse., dependence, and addiction.² The misuse of this Schedule II substance can be characterized by the following:^1,2

• Taking more medicine than prescribed
• Taking medication prescribed to someone else
• Using medication to get the effect that it produces, rather than what the medicine was prescribed for

The misuse of Vyvanse can eventually lead to the development of tolerance, which occurs when the exposure to a substance results in a decrease in that substance’s ability to produce the desired effects.²

Can Vyvanse Cause Withdrawal?

Yes, Vyvanse can cause withdrawal.² Research suggests suddenly discontinuing Vyvanse after taking it therapeutically for 26 weeks was not associated with any amphetamine withdrawal symptoms.⁴ However, additional research shows that taking Vyvanse orally and at higher than therapeutic doses can result in physiological dependence, which manifests in the form of withdrawal symptoms when the medication is severely reduced or stopped entirely.^2,3 

Vyvanse Withdrawal Symptoms

Both extreme fatigue and depression are the two prominent withdrawal symptoms that may be experienced by those who suddenly stop using Vyvanse after prolonged high-dose use.²

The following withdrawal symptoms associated with amphetamine discontinuation may also be experienced:⁵

Stimulant withdrawal is rarely medically dangerous, but symptoms of depression can range from mild to profound. When severe, these symptoms may need to be closely monitored, particularly in those who might be at risk of suicidal thoughts or attempts.⁶

There is no concrete amount of time that withdrawal symptoms last, but rather the severity and duration of withdrawal can vary based on a number of various factors, such as how long Vyvanse misuse occurred, in what dose, and if Vyvanse was misused with alcohol or other drugs, as well as personal differences in metabolism, general state of health, and psychological or emotional disposition.^5,6

Quitting Vyvanse

Quitting Vyvanse may seem difficult and overwhelming, however there is hope for anyone with an earnest desire to stop misusing this medication and begin anew.

An important consideration when looking to end Vyvanse misuse is that withdrawal from stimulants seldom requires medical intervention like the withdrawal from other substances can, such as opioids or alcohol.⁵ And while even though stimulant withdrawal does not typically require detoxification services, it can be beneficial for individuals who have withdrawn from a stimulant like Vyvanse to enter into formal addiction treatment with support, education, and healthy lifestyle changes.⁵

Treatment for Vyvanse Addiction in Florida

If you or a loved one are struggling with Vyvanse misuse or addiction, know that you are not alone. At our inpatient addiction treatment near Tampa, we offer a safe, supportive environment to recover in. To start the admissions process, reach out to us right now by calling us at . We will connect you with one of our kind, compassionate admissions navigators who can help answer any questions you have, including those about using insurance to pay for rehab, handling the cost of rehab, and the types of addiction treatment we offer.

It only takes one simple step to start a brighter tomorrow, and we can help you take that step. Get started right now and verify your insurance with us in minutes by filling out our .