Vyvanse

Medically Reviewed by HaVy Ngo, Pharm.D.

Last Reviewed: Jun 07, 2022

Directions


How should I take Vyvanse?

One pill, once a day. Vyvanse should be taken once a day in the morning exactly as your doctor tells you to take it - avoid afternoon doses because of the potential for insomnia (sleeping problems). Vyvanse can be taken with or without food. 

Follow all directions on your Vyvanse prescription label. Vyvanse dosing options are available from 10 mg to 70 mg, and your dose may be increased or decreased to provide the most optimal control of your ADHD symptoms while minimizing side effects. For some patients, the doctor may stop Vyvanse treatment temporarily to see if Vyvanse is still an appropriate treatment for the patient. Do not take Vyvanse in larger or smaller doses or for a longer duration than your doctor’s recommendation.

FDA classifies lisdexamfetamine, the main ingredient of Vyvanse, as a schedule II substance, meaning Vyvanse may be habit-forming, leading to dependence and abuse. Like any other prescription drug, do not share Vyvanse with friends or family, especially if someone has a history of substance abuse or addiction. Selling Vyvanse is considered to be against the law. 

Your pharmacy may provide a medication guide. Read the medication guide carefully, and talk to your doctor and pharmacist if you have any concerns or questions. 

Useful information on how to use a Vyvanse capsule:

  • Swallow the Vyvanse capsule whole
  • For patients with problems swallowing pills, a Vyvanse capsule can be opened, and all of the medication powder can be sprinkled over yogurt, water, or orange juice.  
  • If you see clumps, meaning the medication powder is compacted, use a spoon to break apart any powder stuck together. Mix the content thoroughly until the powder is completely dispersed - the goal is not to have any clumps of powder. Eat or drink this mixture immediately, do not store it for future use. Do not be alarmed if you see a filmy coating on the inside of the glass or container; this film contains inactive ingredients.
  • Take the entire contents of the Vyvanse capsule as prescribed by your doctor (do not divide the dose).

Helpful information on how to use Vyvanse chewable tablets:

  • Vyvanse chewable tablets must be chewed thoroughly before swallowing.
  • You should take the entire chewable tablet daily as prescribed by your doctor (do not divide the dose).

Vyvanse chewable tablets can be substituted by Vyvanse capsule on an mg (milligram) per mg (milligram) basis. This means that if you are not satisfied with your current Vyvanse dosage form, you can talk to your doctor about changing from capsules to chewable tablets or vice versa. 

Missed dose:

Since Vyvanse is the once-a-day dosing medicine, if you miss a dose, take the dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is already late afternoon or early evening, skip the dose for that day. Do not double up the dose the next day to make up for the missed dose.  

Storage:

Store Vyvanse at room temperature (between 15-30°C or 59-86°F) away from moisture, heat, and direct light in a tightly closed container. Keep Vyvanse out of reach of children and pets.  Lisdexamfetamine may be habit-forming; keep this medication in a secure place where people cannot have access to it easily.

Unused medications:

Similar to other prescription medications, do not consume Vyvanse after the expiration date. However, since Vyvanse is a controlled substance, the best way to dispose of unused Vyvanse is through the Drug Take-Back Programs sponsored by FDA. You can also inquire for more information about these programs through local pharmacies. Learn more about proper medication disposal.

NOTEThis sheet is a summary and may not contain all possible information. If you have more questions or concerns about Vyvanse, talk to your pharmacist or doctor to ensure that this information applies to you or your family member. 


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