Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Vyvanse), like all medications comes with a guide. It is recommended that you read this insert with each refill (in case of any ingredient or other changes). Your doctor and or / pharmacist will be able to address all questions you may have.
It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when taking or administering this medication, and to ensure it is used at the correct dosage (to reduce the risk of potential addiction). He or she will generally recommend that this medication be taken once a day, in the morning. If taken during the afternoon or evening, this vyvanse may cause trouble sleeping.
It is recommended that capsules be swallowed whole. For those who experience difficulty swallowing medication, the capsule may be opened and its contents (powder) emptied into a glass of water or juice. Alternatively this can be mixed with yoghurt, stirred well and consumed once the contents have dissolved. A filmy coating on the inside of the glass or bowl may be evident, this is normal
Dosage will be based on overall health and a person's medically assessed condition. A doctor will also take into account your response to treatment (physically, mentally and emotionally) and adjust accordingly to find the best dose for you. It is important that you openly communicate how you feel your body is responding to treatment with your doctor. If you take the medication for extended periods, you may find it does not work as well. If you notice improvements or worsening of symptoms, your doctor will need to know to adjust your treatment as they feel is best for you.
Your doctor may encourage you to take the medication at the same time each day. The medication typically works best when taken on a regular basis. It can happen that your doctor may recommend that you stop your medication for a short period of time. This can happen if you begin to display changes in your behaviour or show signs of other red flags associated with the use of this medication. If it is determined that you no longer need the medication, your doctor will stop your prescription and gradually reduce your dosage in phases.
It is important not to stop your medication treatment on your own, without your doctor’s knowledge. Withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly in high doses or for a long period, can happen. These reactions will include severe tiredness, sleep problems, and mood or mental changes.
Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Vyvanse) nteractions
Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (vyvanse) can interact with other medications, supplements and even herbal mixtures you may be taking. It is strongly advisable to ensure that your doctor is aware of all substances you are taking so that together, you can manage them carefully.
Medications, taken at the same time, that can interact and cause other health problems or complications include:
- Tricyclic antidepressants: These can cause high levels of amphetamine in the brain, resulting in heart problems.
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): These can increase blood pressure.
- Medications that acidify urine: These types of medications decrease the amount of time lisdexamfetamine dimesylate is able to remain in the body, making it less effective (absorbic acid).
- Medications that alkalinise urine: These types of medications increase the amount of time lisdexamfetamine dimesylate is able to remain in the body, also making the drug less effective by increasing its reaction.
Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Vyvanse) dosages
Your doctor will determine your dosage, form and how often you take the medications based on your age, the condition you are requiring treatment for and its severity, other possible medical conditions, as well as your reactions to the first dose.
If you are being treated for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or binge eating disorder (BED), your doctor will usually prescribe the brand, Vyvanse. This oral capsule comes in 10 milligrams, 20 milligrams, 30 milligrams, 40 milligrams, 50 milligrams, 60 milligrams and 70 milligrams.
ADHD adults (18 – 64 years of age) and children (6 – 17 years of age) will be given a starting dose of 30 milligrams once a day (in the morning) and adjusted as needed until at a dosage that best relieves symptoms.
BED adults (18 – 64 years of age) will be given a starting dose of 30 milligrams once a day (in the morning) and adjusted as needed. Children 17 years of age and younger should not be given this medication.
Adults over 65 tend to process the drug more slowly. A doctor may start seniors (being treated for either condition) on a lower dose to prevent too much of the medication building up in the body, which can be toxic.
If you have a known kidney condition, dosages for either condition, will be adjusted to ensure sufficient kidney function (usually between 30 milligrams and 50 milligrams a day).
It can happen that you miss a dose. If this happens, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, it is best to rather skip the missed dose and continue with your usual schedule. Doubling doses can cause complications and adverse reactions.