Is Vyvanse Addictive? Understand the Warning Signs of Vyvanse Abuse

Vyvanse can be a life-changing medication for people with ADHD and binge eating disorders. Yet, just like other stimulant medications, it’s vital to weigh its benefits against the risks.

Is Vyvanse addictive, and how can you tell the difference between healthy use and addiction? This guide aims to help you make informed decisions if you’re struggling with Vyvanse.

What Is Vyvanse?

Vyvanse is the brand name for lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, a central nervous system stimulant. It’s an FDA-approved prescription drug used for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating.

Vyvanse works by increasing the concentration of neurotransmitters in the brain. As your dopamine and norepinephrine levels rise, you become more attentive. Impulsive behaviors also tend to lessen at the same time.

Vyvanse Uses and Why It’s Abused

Below are some of the most common uses of Vivanse and why people may abuse it.

ADHD: People with ADHD may feel more in control and less impulsive. They may misuse Vyvanse in an attempt to become productive in school or work.
Binge Eating Disorder: Taking Vyvanse can lessen impulsive eating. This means it may be abused by people for weight loss.
Depression and Narcolepsy: Vyvanse is sometimes used off-label for depression because it boosts dopamine, the neurotransmitter that regulates reward and motivation. It can make users euphoric, leading to the abuse of this prescription stimulant.

Is Vyvanse Addictive?

Yes. Vyvanse is a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it has the potential for drug abuse and addiction.

How Vyvanse works is slightly different from other prescription medications. It’s a type of prodrug, and it only activates once it’s inside your body. This is actually an abuse-deterrent mechanism.

The effects of Vyvanse don’t work if you inject or snort it. Its absorption is also delayed, so taking higher doses orally doesn’t cause increased euphoria.

However, Vyvanse can still cause dependence and addiction. You may experience withdrawal symptoms when you discontinue use, and you can accidentally overdose on it.

Signs of a Vyvanse Addiction

If you notice any of these signs in a loved one, it may be a sign of abuse and Vyvanse addiction.

Physical Signs: They may be restless with body shakes, dilated pupils, and profuse sweating even if there’s no apparent cause. Their skin may appear red, and they can sometimes have abdominal pain and vomiting.
Behavioral Signs: They have unusually high energy levels and have trouble sleeping at night. They may also become hostile and exhibit frequent mood swings.
Mental Signs: They become paranoid and may sometimes hallucinate. Their personality might change.

The Side Effects of Vyvanse

Vyvanse can have adverse side effects even for those who are taking it as prescribed. For your well-being, be sure to tell your doctor if you’re experiencing anxiety, dizziness, and irritability.

Other side effects to look out for include upper abdominal pain, vomiting, a decreased appetite, constipation, and a dry mouth. Moreover, seek help if it’s affecting your heart rate and blood pressure.

The Dangers of Using Vyvanse

Using ADHD medications like Vyvanse comes with risks. Here’s what you should be aware of.

Cardiovascular Risks: Vyvanse can cause increased blood pressure and irregular heartbeat. People with pre-existing conditions have an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Organ Damage: Those struggling with Vyvanse abuse may have liver, kidney, and brain damage.
Psychiatric Reactions: Vyvanse can cause manic episodes, especially in people struggling with their mental health. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have depression, anxiety, or other disorders.
Circulation Problems: Vyvanse may affect your circulation, resulting in Raynaud’s phenomenon. You may experience numbness and discoloration on your fingers and toes.
Pregnancy Risks: Vyvanse can cause premature birth in pregnant women. It may get into breastmilk and stunt growth in children.

In addition to the dangers, you should be aware of the signs of Vyvanse overdose. Seek immediate help if you have a high fever, delusions, rapid breathing, and extreme blood pressure levels after Vyvanse use.

Vyvanse Withdrawal Symptoms

Unfortunately, those struggling with Vyvanse addiction can experience withdrawal symptoms. While it’s rarely life-threatening, Vyvanse withdrawal can still cause various health issues.

Some people may experience shakiness, sweating, and trouble sleeping. Others may have episodes of depression and even suicidal thoughts.

It’s important to seek help from professionals if you have withdrawal symptoms related to Vyvanse addiction.

What You Can Do to Prevent Vyvanse Addiction

If your doctor prescribed Vyvanse, here’s what you can do to prevent drug addiction and Vyvanse abuse.

Be Consistent: Be consistent with taking it at the same time every morning. Otherwise, you may experience a crash in the afternoon.
Follow the Prescription: Don’t take more than prescribed. Higher doses for longer periods can cause a substance use disorder.
Talk to Your Doctor: Tell your doctor if you’re experiencing negative symptoms from Vyvanse use.
Don’t Take Other Drugs: Vyvanse can interact with other medications. Consult with your doctor if you’re using other stimulants like Adderall.

Are You Struggling With Vyvanse Addiction? Here’s How We Can Help

If you’re living with ADHD and have found yourself relying on Vyvanse more than intended, just know that you’re not alone.

It’s completely normal to want to stay focused and motivated. However, if you’re constantly chasing the next dose, your life can quickly start to feel out of control.

At Mid Hudson Addiction Recovery, we understand the challenges of managing ADHD and stimulant dependence. We’re here to support you, without judgment, toward a healthier life.

Here’s what you can expect when you join one of our treatment programs.

1. A Safe Detoxification

Detox can be difficult for some because the substances alter your brain chemistry.

Once you develop physical dependence, withdrawal can be uncomfortable. In some cases, it can even be life-threatening.

It’s important to seek professional help so you can safely remove Vyvanse from your body.

At Mid Hudson Addiction Recovery, we ensure the Vyvanse isn’t just cleared from your brain, but also your liver, kidneys, heart, and lungs. We do this through medication-assisted treatment, behavioral therapy, and medical support.

Rest assured, you’ll always be in safe hands when you detox at our treatment center.

2. Tailored Addiction Treatment

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to addiction treatment. The most effective treatment plans consider your circumstances. These include everything from medical history to family background and budget.

Mid Hudson Addiction Recovery tailors all its treatment programs to the individual’s needs. To give you an idea, here are some of your treatment options.

Men’s Treatment: ADHD can be different for men and women, which is why a tailored approach is important. In men’s treatment, we focus on preventing peer pressure and environmental stress.
Women’s Treatment: In women’s treatment, we address emotional and sexual traumas that may have contributed to the addiction. We can also provide help with parenting, pregnancy, eating disorders, and low self-esteem.

3. Varying Care Levels

Whether you need a more intensive level of care or you want flexibility, Mid Hudson Addiction Recovery has the right program for you.

Inpatient Care: Inpatient treatment is best for those who have severe addictions. Medical professionals watch you 24/7 to ensure you don’t harm yourself through recovery.
Outpatient Care: Outpatient treatment is great for those with a stable support system. It’s a flexible option that lets you continue work or school.
Partial Hospitalization: Partial hospitalization is stricter than outpatient care, but still allows you to return home each day. The program can be customized to fit all of your needs.

4. Evidence-Based Therapies

Therapy plays a crucial role in Vyvanse addiction treatment.

Stimulant use often comes with a variety of underlying causes. Some of these can only be treated through therapy.

Below are some evidence-based therapies at our center.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: CBT can clarify your thoughts and teach you healthy coping mechanisms. Over time, you can replace negative emotions with positive ones.
Recovery Coaching: In recovery coaching, you receive invaluable support to achieve your goals. Our coaches can help you make smarter decisions that can change your life.
Group Therapy: Group therapy includes 12-step meetings that help you maintain sobriety. You’ll remain anonymous while interacting with the group. At the same time, you receive much-needed support in a judgment-free environment.

5. Help With Co-Occurring Disorders

If you’re struggling with both addiction and a mental health disorder, you need a more specialized treatment that addresses both.

Mid Hudson Addiction Recovery can develop a treatment plan for co-occurring disorders. Our integrated approach can provide you with everything you need for long-lasting recovery.

6. Continuous Support and Aftercare

If you still need support after graduating from the treatment, we’re here for you. Mid Hudson Addiction Recovery offers sober living homes where you can stay in a drug-free environment as you adjust to your new life.

Going to a sober living home equips you with useful life skills, especially in times of stress.

Conclusion

To sum it up, Vyvanse is an addictive prescription medication that can have dangerous side effects. If you or a loved one has been taking Vyvanse for ADHD, you should be careful to follow the prescription.

In case you feel like you’re becoming addicted to Vyvanse, we’re here to help. Just call our phone number, and we can walk you through everything you need to recover from drug use!