Vyvanse Side Effects
By Dr. Emily Kensington
Since Vyvanse is a stimulant, Vyvanse side effects are similar to that of other stimulants such as caffeine. Vyvanse is used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also referred to as ADD or ADHD.
It interacts with chemicals in the brain that contribute to impulse control and hyperactivity. All medications have side effects, both positive and negative, and this one is no exception.
Common Vyvanse side effects include decreased appetite, irritability, and insomnia.
It is important to report any negative side effects to your prescribing doctor.
Such side effects are familiar to anyone who has ever consumed too many cups of coffee.
Decreased AppetiteThis is a common side effect of all stimulants. If it continues to be problematic, dosages and medication times can be adjusted. Often a large breakfast, small lunch and large supper can do the trick. Or a late evening snack can also help.
ReboundRebound is the phenomenon where some experience irritability or depression for an hour as the drug wears off. One can avoid rebound by spacing the doses closer together, giving a smaller dose after the final larger dose, or by switching to a longer acting stimulant.
Recently several new long-acting stimulant preparations have been released. Although the long-acting compounds often have less rebound, it may still occur in susceptible individuals.
"The Jitters"Like all stimulants, Vyvanse produces the jitters and the shakes. To avoid this try eliminating all caffeine and other stimulants.
A small dose of a beta-blocker (a type of blood pressure medication) can block tremors, shakes and jitters. Be sure to eat regular meals and ingest some food.
Upset StomachAnother common side effect of any stimulant. Take the medication with meals or eat smaller, more frequent meals.
Sleep DisturbancesSometimes sleep disturbances are due to ADHD, not the medication. Therefore, it is a good idea to take a sleep history before starting taking any stimulants.
If sleep disturbances are due to the medication, there are several options such as adjusting dosages and medication times.
IrritabilityIrritability may be due to ADHD but if it is due to the medication the dosage may be altered or another ADHD medication could be substituted.
Exit Vyvanse Side Effects And Return To ADHD Medications
Return To ADD Treatment Home Page

|