Vyvanse Weight Loss: Risks and What You Need To Know

Why Does Vyvanse Cause Weight Loss?

Many ADHD medications are part of the stimulant class of drugs. Stimulant medications can decrease appetite, leading to weight loss. The active component of Vyvanse is lisdexamfetamine. In the body, lisdexamfetamine gets broken down into dextroamphetamine which blocks the removal of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This leads to increased levels of these chemicals, and the stimulating effects of these chemicals can reduce appetite and may increase metabolism.

Compared to other ADHD medications, Vyvanse is relatively unique as it first needs to be metabolized by the body before it becomes active. This gradual conversion process can provide a smoother and more sustained effect from the medication. However, it is important to remember that responses to medications vary from person to person.

Can Other ADHD Medications Cause Weight Loss?

Studies in adults have shown that weight loss occurs in approximately 3-9% of those taking Vyvanse. The amount of weight loss is dependent on the dose, with an average weight loss of 2.8-4.3 pounds. In children, Vyvanse can lead to weight loss or a general slowing of growth, requiring careful monitoring for children on this medication.

Compared to other ADHD medications, Vyvanse can have a similar effect on appetite as other stimulants. On the other hand, non-stimulant medications used for treating ADHD are less likely to cause weight loss and may even contribute to weight gain.

Risks of Misusing Vyvanse for Weight Loss

Vyvanse is a stimulant medication that can decrease appetite and increase metabolism, but it is not recommended to be used solely for weight loss. Misusing Vyvanse for weight loss comes with several risks. As a stimulant medication, Vyvanse can lead to increased blood pressure and heart rate, making it especially risky for those with a history of heart problems. Vyvanse can also interact with other medications leading to more severe side effects.

Misusing Vyvanse can also lead to the development of tolerance, where the body becomes accustomed to the drug’s effect, diminishing its appetite-suppressing effects over time. This can lead to a dangerous cycle of increasing doses to achieve the desired effect, potentially leading to overdose and severe side effects.

As Vyvanse can suppress growth, its misuse by adolescents is risky as it may interfere with growth, with consequences such as not reaching their expected adult height.¹ Studies have also shown that misusing Vyvanse can lead to poorer study skills and academic performance.²

Vyvanse should typically only be taken for FDA-approved uses. However, medications like Vyvanse are occasionally used off-label. This is when a healthcare provider prescribes a medication for use that is not FDA-approved because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may benefit someone.

Serious Side Effects of Vyvanse

Using Vyvanse can lead to serious side effects, and the risk is increased if Vyvanse is taken inappropriately. Serous side effects from Vyvanse use include heart problems, psychiatric problems, and allergic reactions. If an individual taking Vyvanse develops severe or persistent side effects, they may need to seek emergency medical care or call 911.

Serious side effects of Vyvanse use that may require medical attention include:³

• Elevated blood pressure
• Chest pain
• Increased heart rate
• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Seizures
• Weakness or numbness of an arm or leg
• Hives
• Swelling of the eyes, face, tongue, or mouth

Can You Become Addicted to Vyvanse?

As Vyvanse is a stimulant medication, it can lead to psychological and physical addiction. Misuse of Vyvanse can have severe health consequences and may not be suitable for those at an increased risk of abuse. This includes those who have a history of drug abuse, those who take doses larger than prescribed, or those taking the Vyvanse in other ways than prescribed (such as snorting or injecting).

Additionally, Vyvanse can lead to dependence when taken inappropriately. Dependence is when sudden cessation or reduction of medication may trigger withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include extreme fatigue and depression. High doses or prolonged use of Vyvanse can also result in tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect.

Signs of possible Vyvanse addiction may include:²

• Sense of being invincible or euphoria when taking Vyvanse
• Difficulty controlling drug use despite harmful consequences
• Taking higher doses than prescribed
• Needing higher doses to achieve the same effect
• Snorting or injecting the medication
• Fear of running out of the medication
• Giving priority to drug use over other obligations

It is crucial for individuals to use Vyvanse as prescribed by their healthcare provider to minimize the risk of negative effects and to seek professional help if they have concerns about dependency or addiction.

Weight Loss in Children Taking Vyvanse

Children taking Vyvanse are at risk for weight loss or slowing of growth due to its appetite suppression.² Children require proper nutrition for healthy physical and cognitive development, and persistent weight loss and appetite suppression can lead to nutritional deficiencies impacting overall well-being.

Signs that parents should watch for regarding their child’s weight include a noticeable decrease in appetite, a significant drop in weight over a short period of time, a slowing of growth over time, and signs of nutritional deficiencies. The prescribing healthcare provider will be monitoring your child for these signs, as well, but it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider if you have concerns. The provider will assess the degree of weight loss and may recommend consulting a dietician or changing the treatment plan.

Can ADHD Medications Cause Weight Gain?

The impact of ADHD medications on weight can vary among individuals. While some ADHD medications may lead to weight loss, others can potentially cause weight gain. Vyvanse and other stimulants are most likely to lead to weight loss and appetite suppression. On the other hand, some non-stimulant medications, such as atomoxetine (Straterra) and guanfacine (Intuniv), have been associated with weight gain in some individuals.

Other Reasons People With ADHD May Gain Weight

Weight gain in individuals with ADHD can be due to several factors. Individuals with ADHD are at an increased risk for mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Some medications used to treat anxiety and depression have weight gain as a side effect. Additionally, those with uncontrolled ADHD symptoms have poor attention and a lack of impulse control. This can lead to overeating and struggles to follow dietary plans consistently.

How to Manage Weight Loss on Vyvanse

There are many ways to address weight loss when taking Vyvanse. It is important to have open and regular communication with your healthcare provider to discuss how medical conditions and personal factors contribute to weight loss. Your healthcare provider will monitor your weight and overall health to recommend appropriate interventions.

Five ways to manage weight loss while taking Vyvanse:

• Adjusting the dosage: Modifying the Vyvanse dose under the guidance of a healthcare provider can help manage weight loss. Lowering the dose may reduce appetite suppression while still controlling ADHD symptoms.
• Switching medications: If Vyvanse continues to cause weight loss despite decreasing the dose, switching to an alternative medication may be necessary. Different medications have varying effects on appetite and weight. Finding the right one for an individual’s specific needs can help limit weight loss.
• Working with a dietician: Collaborating with a dietitian can provide personalized dietary guidance to ensure adequate nutrition despite a lowered appetite.
• Regular meal planning and scheduling: Establishing consistent eating patterns and planning meals in advance can help individuals remember to eat at appropriate times. This can reduce the risk of overeating and making impulsive unhealthy food choices.
• Regular physical activity: Regular exercise can help maintain muscle mass and overall health, counteracting some of the weight loss effects of Vyvanse.

Alternatives to Vyvanse

There are alternative ADHD medications that may have a lower risk of weight loss compared to Vyvanse. Individuals respond differently to different medications, and different medications may lead to less appetite suppression. When comparing stimulant vs non-stimulant ADHD meds, there is generally a lower risk of weight loss in non-stimulant ADHD medications.

In addition to medications, therapy can also play a crucial role in managing ADHD. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for ADHD can help individuals develop coping strategies, improve time management, and address negative thought patterns. Dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT) can also help with ADHD by helping individuals manage and tolerate emotional distress while developing more helpful behaviors.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Team About Vyvanse Weight Loss

If you are considering using Vyvanse to manage ADHD or binge eating disorder but are worried about potential side effects, it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider. Ask your healthcare provider about what to expect when taking Vyvanse, including side effects and risks. Open communication with your healthcare provider will ensure the treatment plan aligns with your needs.

Questions to ask your care team about Vyvanse weight loss include:

1. How can I tell if the medication is the reason for weight loss?
2. How long will weight loss effects from Vyvanse last?
3. Am I at risk for increased weight loss or weight gain if I am taking other medications, such as antidepressants or anxiety medications?
4. Will a previous history of weight loss or weight gain make me more susceptible?
5. What is the best dosage to reduce the risk of weight gain or loss?
6. Are there drugs I am taking that could have increased effects on weight gain or weight loss?
7. When should I reach out to you if I am experiencing too much weight gain or weight loss?
8. Are there other medications that may have less impact on my weight?
9. What can I do to minimize the risk of weight loss?
10. Do you recommend any dietary changes to prevent weight loss?
11. How often should I monitor my weight, and what signs should I look out for?
12. Will regular exercise help limit weight loss?

In My Experience

In my experience, Vyvanse is a great option when treating individuals with ADHD. Although it can cause weight loss or suppressed growth, these side effects can often be minimized by appropriately dosing the medication. I treat many patients with ADHD, and many of them take Vyvanse for their symptoms. It is important to remember that you may react differently to different medications. So if Vyvanse doesn’t work for you, don’t give up. There are many other alternatives to consider.

For Further Reading

• Concerta for Weight Loss: Everything You Need to Know
• Hypnosis for Weight Loss: How it Works, Examples, & Effectiveness
• How long does Vyvanse last?
• What are the side effects of Vyvanse?
• Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Signs, Symptoms, & Treatments