What Is Vyvanse and What Is It Used for?

Vyvanse was first approved for the treatment of ADHD in both adults and children over the age of six in 2007. Since that time, it has also proven to be an effective treatment for moderate to severe binge eating disorders in adults.

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What Is Vyvanse?

Lisdexamfetamine (LDX), sold under the brand name of Vyvanse, is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. It affects certain chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. 

How Does Vyvanse Work?

Vyvanse is a prodrug stimulant that is inactive until the body metabolizes it. Enzymes in red blood cells chemically modify it to become dextroamphetamine and l-lysine (an amino acid).

Dextroamphetamine increases the levels of naturally occurring mood and behavior neurotransmitters, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the nerve synapse. Dopamine helps us feel satisfied and happy and is necessary for attention and concentration.

Norepinephrine is natural adrenaline that enhances alertness of the brain and is responsible for our fight or flight response. Neither of these chemicals can cross the blood-brain barrier [1*] that protects the brain.

A precursor increases their levels in the body naturally. This is where dextroamphetamine (Vyvanse) comes in. 

Because of the way Vyvanse acts within the body, patients do not abuse it as often as Ritalin or Adderall.

Doctors consider Vyvanse as a safer alternative when dealing with individuals who’ve had dependencies in the past.

Vyvanse offers a different type of time-release as compared to other medications that reduce the chance of a quick “high” that some may get from crushing and snorting pills. 

This medication increases attention and decreases restlessness in easily distracted, hyperactive, or impulsive individuals. When used in conjunction with other therapies that include social, educational, and psychological treatments, Vyvanse is very effective.

What Is Vyvanse Used for?

Vyvanse is most often prescribed to treat individuals who have been diagnosed with ADHD. Doctors may also use it to treat those with Binge Eating disorders. ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder affects approximately 8 to 9 million people in the US today.

ADHD is a brain disorder that interferes with functioning or development. Individuals who have been diagnosed with this condition are often described as inattentive, compulsive, or both.

Unfortunately for those who suffer from this disease, ADHD can affect virtually every aspect of their lives. It can inhibit their ability to form long-lasting friendships as well as causing anxiety or depression.

ADHD is most often diagnosed in adolescence, but some adults may be surprised to learn that they have it as well. Even though these adults did not have a diagnosis until after graduating high school, they’ve always had the disease.

In other words, they were able to mask the symptoms until the more complex requirements of work and family made it impossible. Although significant strides have been made in ADHD research, there is still much to learn about this disorder.

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Vyvanse for Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a severe psychological condition characterized by frequently eating large amounts of food despite not being hungry. The individual also continues to eat beyond feeling full.

These individuals typically describe a loss of control over their eating habits. Some people may associate this condition with overeating. But it is essential to note that binge eating disorder is more severe and reoccurs often. 

Unlike Bulimia Nervosa, purging activities are not a part of binge eating disorder. But there are similar feelings of intense guilt, shame, and self-hatred.

These individuals often participate in sporadic fasting and repetitive diets in response to the negative emotions that follow a binge episode. The yo-yo effect of binging and dieting are such contrasting behaviors.

But individuals who suffer from a binge disorder, don’t usually comprehend how their actions contribute to the disease. 

BED is a severe condition itself but can also cause additional mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression. With the combination of issues, it’s no wonder that mental health professionals are advocating for additional funding for improved therapies and medications. 

Both ADHD and binge eating disorders can affect anyone. Individuals of all ages, genders, and ethnicities can be diagnosed with either condition. Knowing the signs and seeking help is the first step in any treatment program. 

Vyvanse Side Effects

• Dry mouth
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Insomnia
• Rapid heart rate
• Feeling jittery
• Dizziness, feeling anxious or irritable 
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

Individuals who experience any of the following should seek the attention of a medical professional as soon as possible:

• Tics or uncontrolled vocal outbursts
• Chest pain/ pressure
• Shortness of breath 

Where Can I Buy Vyvanse Legally?

Many online sites claim to be able to sell Vyvanse without a prescription. However, the only legal way to purchase this and all other medications of its type is with your doctor’s prescription.

Many of these fraudulent websites do not originate in the United States. Medicines from foreign countries are not FDA-regulated and often contain impurities that may be dangerous or even deadly.

If you have been diagnosed with ADHD or a Binge Eating Disorder and feel your current medication isn’t as effective as it once was, request a consultation with your medical provider today. If you take it as prescribed, Vyvanse can be incredibly useful.

Vyvanse is a powerful stimulant, and one should take it seriously. Before using this medication, talk to your doctor about any other medications you may take.

These also include over-the-counter herbal or vitamin supplements. As with all medication, patients may experience side effects when using Vyvanse. 

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To get Vyvanse, you can speak with our ADHD doctor in San Francisco. Schedule an appointment with an ADHD doctor today. We are open several days a week from 11 am to 7 pm. Please call us at 415-966-0848 if you have any questions.