Many people in the United States use prescription medications to manage mental health and medical conditions. Prescription stimulants are among the most commonly used medications in the US. People may take prescription stimulants to manage the symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other conditions.
Vyvanse is a commonly prescribed stimulant medication. Like other prescription stimulant drugs, Vyvanse has the potential for abuse and addiction.
This article will explore Vyvanse addiction and withdrawal. You will learn:
- How Vyvanse addiction develops
- Common Vyvanse withdrawal symptoms
- The Vyvanse withdrawal timeline
- What treatment is available to manage Vyvanse withdrawal
- Where to find detox and treatment programs
If you or someone you love struggles with Vyvanse abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Palm City Wellness specialists to learn about our detox and treatment programs. Schedule an intake appointment or ask questions by reaching out today.
What is Vyvanse?
Vyvanse is the brand name of a drug called lisdexamfetamine. It is a prescription stimulant drug. People may take Vyvanse to manage the symptoms of ADHD, binge eating disorder, or other conditions.
The DEA classifies Vyvanse as a Schedule II drug. This classification means that Vyvanse has a known medical use and a risk of addiction. People who misuse Vyvanse may develop tolerance and physical dependence. It can be challenging to overcome Vyvanse addiction.
Vyvanse is a central nervous system stimulant. It affects dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. People who take Vyvanse may notice a reduction in the symptoms of ADHD or other conditions.
However, Vyvanse can also cause unwanted side effects, including:
- Insomnia
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Rapid heart rate
- Elevated blood pressure
Taking higher doses or misusing it in other ways can lead to a Vyvanse “crash” once the effects wear off. Some symptoms of a Vyvanse crash include:
- Depression
- Agitation
- Mood swings
- Muscle aches
- Drowsiness
People who misuse Vyvanse may develop dependence on it. It can be very challenging for people to stop taking Vyvanse when they choose.
Many people require addiction treatment and recovery support to stop using Vyvanse. Contact the Palm City Wellness specialists to learn more about our detox, recovery, and support programs.
Understanding Vyvanse Abuse and Addiction
People may take Vyvanse to treat ADHD and other conditions. People who take it as prescribed have a low risk for addiction or other complications.
However, some people abuse Vyvanse. Vyvanse abuse includes:
- Taking high doses of Vyvanse
- Taking doses more often than prescribed
- Taking Vyvanse for longer periods than prescribed
- Taking Vyvanse recreationally (without a prescription)
Vyvanse abuse is most common among adolescents and young adults. People in these groups may abuse prescription stimulants to maintain focus or improve physical performance.
Heavy or prolonged Vyvanse abuse can change how the brain and body work. People may experience physical and behavioral symptoms of addiction, including:
- They experience withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop taking Vyvanse
- Having cravings for Vyvanse
- Neglecting responsibilities, hobbies, or relationships because of substance use
- Continuing to abuse Vyvanse even when it causes significant harm
- Spending a lot of time and energy getting, using, and recovering from using Vyvanse
Over time, people may develop tolerance and addiction that requires treatment. Substance use disorder (SUD) treatment programs offer detox treatment, therapies, medications, and other evidence-based support to help people address substance abuse.
Vyvanse Withdrawal Symptoms
People who develop Vyvanse addiction may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it. Some common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Body aches
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Tremors
- Increased appetite and weight gain
- Difficulty sleeping
People may also experience intense cravings for Vyanse. These and other withdrawal symptoms can make it very challenging to avoid relapse during detox.
The Vyvanse Withdrawal Timeline
Withdrawal symptoms may come and go throughout the withdrawal timeline. Here is what may happen at each stage of withdrawal.
Day 1-2
The first 24-48 hours of detox can be very challenging. People may experience intense withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Supervision, support, and treatment are critical.
Day 3-5
Intense cravings continue, along with emotional symptoms like anxiety and depression. People may be irritable or experience mood swings. Headaches are common at this stage of detox.
Weeks 1 and 2
Withdrawal symptoms may last for a week or more. People may develop new symptoms as time goes on. Brain fog, increased appetite, mood swings, and anxiety are common. Cravings may continue to occur.
Week 3 and beyond
Many people experience significant improvements in their withdrawal symptoms before or during the third week of detox. However, people may continue to experience depression, insomnia, cravings, and other symptoms for longer.
Treatment for Vyvanse Withdrawal
Medical detox and treatment programs provide intensive support for people living with Vyvanse addiction. A detox program might include:
- Assessments, diagnostic testing, and screenings
- Round-the-clock supervision and access to treatment
- Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms
- Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
- Holistic therapies, including acupuncture, nutrition support, mindfulness, and exercise
Contact the Palm City Wellness specialists to learn more about addiction treatment or detox programs. Reach out to ask questions, verify your insurance, or schedule an intake appointment today.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate (Vyvanse), A Prodrug Stimulant for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
- Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry: Efficacy and Safety of Lisdexamfetamine in Preschool Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
- British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) Withdrawal in Children with Orofacial Cleft and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
- Springer Nature Link: Lisdexamfetamine withdrawal