How Long Does Vyvanse Last? Effects, Risks, & Treatment Options
Vyvanse is a prescription drug that activates the nervous system. It is often advised to treat the signs and symptoms of ADHD in adults and children aged six and older. Vyvanse’s effects can last for up to 14 hours on average.
How Long Does Vyvanse Last in the System?
Vyvanse is a pro-drug, which means that for it to work over time, it must be taken orally and digested by the body. As a result, Vyvanse may take one to two hours to start working, and its effects may continue for up to 14 hours.
Vyvanse is a prescription drug that activates the nervous system. It is often advised to treat the signs and symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children aged six and older. Like other ADHD drugs, Vyvanse improves concentration, impulse control, ability to concentrate, and other symptoms by increasing neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain to balance out chemical imbalances. Vyvanse is the only drug of its kind that has been approved to treat binge eating disorders.
Vyvanse Guide
Vyvanse Uses
Consume this medication by your doctor’s instructions, either with or without food, typically once daily in the morning. Refraining from taking this medication in the afternoon or evening is advisable, as it may disrupt your sleep pattern. The prescribed dosage depends on your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment. Your doctor might adjust your dosage to determine the most suitable one for your needs. Be sure to adhere closely to your doctor’s directives.
If you’re taking the chewable tablet, ensure thorough chewing before swallowing.
For the capsule form of this medication, swallow it whole. However, if swallowing the capsule poses difficulties, you may open it and empty the powder into a glass of water, orange juice, or yogurt. Use a spoon to break up any clumps of powder, stirring until it dissolves completely. Consume or ingest the mixture immediately without preparing it in advance. Observing a filmy residue inside the glass or container is normal after taking the medicine.
To derive the maximum benefit from this medication, adhere to a consistent schedule, taking it at the same time daily.
During your treatment, your doctor may intermittently suggest pausing the medication to assess changes in your behavior and whether continued usage is necessary.
Abruptly discontinuing this medication could lead to withdrawal symptoms like severe fatigue, sleep disturbances, and mood alterations such as depression. To mitigate withdrawal, your doctor might gradually reduce your dosage, especially if you’ve been using lisdexamfetamine for an extended period or in high doses. If you experience withdrawal symptoms, promptly inform your doctor or pharmacist.
While this medication benefits many individuals, it carries the potential for addiction, particularly if you have a substance use disorder, like overuse or addiction to drugs or alcohol. Avoid escalating your dose, taking it more frequently, or prolonging the duration beyond the prescribed guidelines. Cease usage as directed by your healthcare provider.
Over time, the effectiveness of this medication may diminish if used consistently. Discuss any decline in effectiveness with your doctor.
Notify your doctor if your condition does not show improvement or worsens.
Vyvanse Side Effects
You may experience side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, stomach or abdominal discomfort, loss of appetite, dry mouth, headaches, nervousness, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, sweating, weight loss, irritability, and restlessness while using this medication. If these side effects persist or worsen, promptly inform your doctor or pharmacist.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because they have determined that the benefits outweigh the potential risks of side effects. Many individuals using this medication do not encounter severe side effects.
This medication has the potential to elevate your blood pressure. Regularly monitor your blood pressure and notify your doctor if the readings are consistently high.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe side effects, including blurred vision, rapid or irregular heartbeat, changes in mental state or behavior (such as agitation, aggression, mood swings, depression, hallucinations, abnormal thoughts or behavior, or thoughts of self-harm), uncontrolled movements, muscle twitches or shaking, indications of blood flow issues in the fingers or toes (such as coldness, numbness, pain, or changes in skin color), unusual sores on the fingers or toes, outbursts of words or sounds, changes in sexual function or interest, swelling of the ankles or feet, extreme fatigue, rapid and unexplained weight loss, or prolonged erections in males.
Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience severe side effects like shortness of breath, fainting, chest, jaw, or left arm pain, seizures, weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking confusion, or sudden vision alterations.
This medication can potentially increase serotonin levels and, in rare instances, may lead to a condition called serotonin syndrome or toxicity. The risk is heightened if you are taking other drugs that also increase serotonin levels. Therefore, inform your doctor or pharmacist about all your medications (refer to the Drug Interactions section). If you develop symptoms like a fast heartbeat, hallucinations, loss of coordination, severe dizziness, severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle twitches, unexplained fever, or unusual restlessness, seek medical attention immediately.
While the likelihood is low, a severe allergic reaction to this medication is possible. If you observe any symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, including rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or breathing difficulties, seek immediate medical assistance.
Vyvanse Risks
Before initiating this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, mainly if you are allergic to this medication, other sympathomimetic drugs like amphetamine or dextroamphetamine, or other substances. Be aware that this product might contain inactive ingredients that have the potential to trigger allergic reactions or other complications. Seek additional details from your pharmacist.
Before commencing this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of blood circulation issues such as Raynaud’s disease, certain mental or mood disorders like severe agitation or psychosis, a personal or family history of mental or mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, depression, psychotic disorders, or suicidal thoughts. Additionally, mention any heart problems, including irregular heartbeats, coronary artery disease, previous heart attacks, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, or structural heart issues like valve problems. Inform your healthcare provider of any family history of heart problems such as sudden death or irregular heartbeats, a history of stroke, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), glaucoma, seizures, kidney disease, or a personal or family history of substance use disorders, like drug or alcohol overuse or addiction, or uncontrolled muscle movements such as Tourette’s syndrome.
This medication may induce dizziness, and alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can exacerbate this effect. Refrain from activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can do so safely. Additionally, limit alcohol consumption, and if you use marijuana (cannabis), discuss it with your doctor.
Before surgery, ensure that your doctor and dentist are informed about all the products you are using, encompassing prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements.
Children may be more susceptible to this medication’s side effects, particularly in weight loss. This medication could slow down a child’s growth, and your doctor may recommend periodic pauses in treatment to mitigate this risk. Monitor your child’s weight and height, and consult your doctor or pharmacist for additional guidance.
This medication should only be employed during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. Engage in a discussion with your doctor regarding the potential risks and benefits. Infants born to mothers dependent on this medication may be born prematurely with low birth weight and might experience withdrawal symptoms. Notify your doctor immediately if you observe any mood changes, agitation, or unusual tiredness in your newborn.
This medication passes into breast milk and may adversely affect a nursing infant. It is advisable not to breastfeed while using this drug. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding. For more information, consult your pharmacist or physician.
Vyvanse Interactions
Interactions between medications can alter their efficacy or increase the risk of experiencing severe side effects. Please be aware that this document does not encompass all conceivable drug interactions. Maintain a comprehensive list of all the products you use, including prescription and non-prescription drugs and herbal supplements, and share this list with your doctor and pharmacist. Refrain from initiating, discontinuing, or modifying the dosage of any medications without obtaining your doctor’s approval.
Concurrently, using MAO inhibitors with this medication can lead to a critical (potentially fatal) drug interaction. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (like isocarboxazid, linezolid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, tranylcypromine) while undergoing treatment with this medication. In most cases, you should also abstain from using MAO inhibitors for two weeks before commencing this medication. Consult your doctor to determine when starting or stopping this medication is safe.
Certain products may contain ingredients that elevate your heart rate or blood pressure. Inform your pharmacist about your products and seek guidance on their safe use, particularly items like cough-and-cold remedies or diet aids.
The risk of serotonin syndrome/toxicity is heightened when taking other drugs that increase serotonin levels. Examples include street drugs like MDMA or “ecstasy,” St. John’s wort, and certain antidepressants (such as SSRIs like fluoxetine or paroxetine, SNRIs like duloxetine or venlafaxine). This risk may be more pronounced when initiating or adjusting the dose of these drugs.
Lisdexamfetamine closely resembles amphetamine or dextroamphetamine. Therefore, it is advised not to use medications containing amphetamine or dextroamphetamine while using lisdexamfetamine.
Remember that this medication may interfere with specific laboratory tests, including blood and urine steroid level assessments, potentially yielding inaccurate results. Ensure that both laboratory personnel and all your healthcare providers are informed of your use of this drug.
Vyvanse Overdose
Call 911 if someone has overdosed and exhibits significant symptoms like fainting out or difficulty breathing. If not, immediately dial a poison control hotline.
Vyvanse Imprint
Here’s a table providing information about Vyvanse, including its typical dose, condition for use, color, shape, and imprint:
Vyvanse | Typical Dose | Color | Shape | Imprint |
---|---|---|---|---|
Vyvanse 10mg | 10mg | Pink | Oblong | S489 10 mg |
Vyvanse 20mg | 20mg | White | Hexagonal | 20 S489 |
Vyvanse 30mg | 30mg | Orange & White | Oblong | S489 30 mg |
Vyvanse 40mg | 40mg | White & Blue-Green | Oblong | S489 40 mg |
Vyvanse 50mg | 50mg | White | Square | 50 S489 |
Vyvanse 60mg | 60mg | White | Diamond | 60 S489 |
Vyvanse 70mg | 70mg | Orange & Blue | Oblong | S489 70 mg |
What is Vyvanse?
Vyvanse is a stimulant drug available only by prescription and frequently used to treat ADHD in adults and children. The medication is also used to treat moderate-to-severe binge eating disorders.
The greatest concentration of Vyvanse and its breakdown products are present in the bloodstream after 3.5 hours. Lisdexamfetamine, the active ingredient, completely exits the plasma after a few hours. However, lisdexamfetamine, sold under the brand name Vyvanse, breaks down into other substances that may linger in a person’s body for much longer.
Given that it stimulates the central nervous system, Vyvanse is equivalent to stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin. Vyvanse and other stimulants improve focus and concentration in ADHD patients while raising blood pressure and other nervous system processes like heart rate.
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FREE Addiction Hotline – Call 24/7Vyvanse Fact Sheet
Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine)
Lisdexamfetamine is a medication prescribed to adults and children six years of age and older to treat the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; more trouble focusing, managing behaviors, and remaining still or quiet than other individuals their age).
Adults with binge eating disorders can also benefit from lisdexamfetamine treatment (an eating disorder characterized by periods of uncontrolled overeating). The medication lisdexamfetamine belongs to the drugs known as central nervous system stimulants. It functions by altering the concentrations of specific organic compounds in the brain.
Vyvanse Information
COMMON BRANDS
Vyvanse®
CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CLASSIFICATION
Vyvanse is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. Schedule II drugs, substances, or chemicals are defined as drugs with a high potential for abuse.
AVAILABILITY
This medication needs prescription authorization from your doctor only.
Vyvanse Abuse Statistics
According to a Drug Abuse Warning Network report from 2012, Vyvanse’s non-medical use resulted in 2,014 emergency room visits and 116 people enrolling in addiction programs.
Studies that surveyed persons in the U.S. suggested that 7% to 8% had used prescription stimulants like Vyvanse for nonmedical purposes throughout their lifetime. In addition, up to 17% of college students are thought to misuse prescription stimulants. Most patients who take stimulants recreationally are between 18 and 25. More than half (56.3%) of the stimulant users cited that cognitive enhancement is the main reason for misusing prescription stimulants, such as Vyvanse.
7-8%
Studies that surveyed persons in the U.S. suggested that 7% to 8% had used prescription stimulants like Vyvanse for nonmedical purposes throughout their lifetime. In addition, up to 17% of college students are thought to misuse prescription stimulants. Most patients who take stimulants recreationally are between 18 and 25.
Source: NIDA
56%
More than half (56.3%) of the stimulant users cited that cognitive enhancement is the main reason for misusing prescription stimulants, such as Vyvanse.
Source: NIDA
Vyvanse Half Life & Effects
The half-life of a drug is frequently used to estimate or measure how long it stays in a person’s system. In other words, it is time it takes normal metabolic processes to reduce the concentration of the drug by half. The stimulant dextroamphetamine is produced naturally when the active ingredient in the half life of Vyvanse, lisdexamfetamine, is metabolized. How long does Vyvanse last? Detection of lisdexamfetamine would only last a brief time (only a few hours in most cases). Dextroamphetamine would be more readily detected because of its extended half-life of roughly 12 hours.
How long does Vyvanse last? It can be assumed that a particular drug’s elimination from the body takes around 5.5 half-lives. The person’s weight, gender, whether or not the drug was taken in conjunction with other medications, and how much of the drug was taken are just a few of the many variables that might impact how quickly any drug is metabolized. How long does it take Vyvanse to work? According to some studies, Vyvanse improves attention in people with ADHD for 2 hours and up to 14 hours after dosage. It is a long-acting drug that releases throughout the day.
A variety of circumstances may have an impact on whether a drug is detectable in the body. For instance, the detectability window should be calculated from the person’s most recent drug use rather than when they first started taking it if they were to take multiple doses of Vyvanse separated several hours apart.


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Hotline (877) 378-4154How Long Does it Take For Vyvanse to Kick In?
How long does Vyvanse take to work? And how long does Vyvanse last? Clinical studies have demonstrated that Vyvanse improves attention in individuals with ADHD at 2 hours and up to 14 hours following a dosage. It is a long-acting medication that releases gradually throughout the day.
How Long Does 30mg Vyvanse Last?
Vyvanse comes in a range of dosages from 10 mg to 70mg. However, 30mg is the suggested starting dose. To assist control symptoms of ADHD and manage side effects, your doctor may occasionally increase or reduce your dosage. How long does Vyvanse last? Vyvanse has a maximum daily dose of 70 mg, and its effects can last up to 14 hours on average.
How Long Does 40mg Vyvanse Last?
How long does Vyvanse last? The usual dose of Vyvanse can be anywhere from 10-70mg. At 40mg, it has the same effects wherein Vyvanse can last for 10-14 hours on average.
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Vyvanse Side Effects
How long does Vyvanse last? Depending on individual characteristics, some people may eliminate Vyvanse more quickly than others. For instance, a higher dose of Vyvanse than a lower dose may result in quicker drug clearance. People who are ill or have organ failure may gradually stop taking medications. The same applies to older people who take other medicines that could interfere with Vyvanse.
According to studies on ADHD, Vyvanse side effects may include the following:
- Loss of appetite or reduced appetite (anorexia)
- Anxiety
- Reduced weight
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Mouth ache
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Upper abdominal pain
- Vomiting
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How Long Does Vyvanse Last in the System?
Compared to other prescribed drugs like methylphenidate, Vyvanse was first thought to have a lower risk of abuse. Vyvanse, however, is a potential drug of abuse since drug users frequently have a strong desire to try various drugs and personalize them to their needs.
Vyvanse how long does it last? Several factors can affect whether a medication is detectable in a person’s system. The shortest detection window is frequently found in blood testing. The average person’s blood would typically continue to show Vyvanse in it for up to 8 hours after taking it. For up to three days and maybe a little longer, urine tests should be able to identify Vyvanse or its metabolites.
How long does Vyvanse stay in your urine? Vyvanse itself does not appear in the urine. Vyvanse instead changes into amphetamine, which can be found in urination. Urine samples are tested for the presence of dextroamphetamine or lisdexamfetamine. How long does Vyvanse last? Urine testing may detect Vyvanse residues 3–5 days after the last dose.
Hair analysis often has the most extended detection window. However, it can take a few days before a hair sample tests positive for Vyvanse or its metabolites. Usually, Vyvanse was detectable in a hair sample a month or so after a person used it.
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Vyvanse Addiction Treatment
Drug addicts dependent on Vyvanse can benefit from a comprehensive We Level Up NJ treatment plan that includes evidence-based and cognitive behavioral therapy. Depending on how severely their drug addiction has affected them, certain people with drug use disorders may be suitable for treatment at a dedicated facility like ours.
We work with highly qualified addiction specialists to provide patients with the knowledge and solutions they need to stop drug addiction and maintain their long-term health. We provide dual-diagnosis treatment programs for those who suffer from both these and co-occurring mental health conditions.
If you are battling drug addiction, contact us to discuss your treatment options and learn how we can support you as you start your recovery. We will be there for you at every moment. We Level Up NJ offers proper care with a 24-hour medical staff to support your recovery through our medication-assisted treatment program. Call us immediately to speak with a therapy expert and reclaim your life. Because they are aware of your struggles, our therapists will handle your concerns.

Popular Vyvanse FAQs
How long for Vyvanse to kick in? And how long does it take for Vyvanse to work?
According to some studies, Vyvanse improves attention in people with ADHD for 2 hours and up to 14 hours after dosage. It is a long-acting drug that releases throughout the day.
How long does Vyvanse last? and how long does Vyvanse show up in urine?
The actual drug Vyvanse does not show up in the urine. Instead, Vyvanse turns into amphetamine, which is excreted in the urine. Dextroamphetamine and lisdexamfetamine are both tested for in urine samples. Three to five days following the last dose, Vyvanse remains may be seen in the urine.
How long does it take to lose weight on Vyvanse?
Vyvanse doesn’t help with weight loss. Long-term amphetamine use can lead to a person eating more, preventing weight loss.
How long do Vyvanse stay in your system? And how long does Vyvanse last?
Usually, Vyvanse stays in your system for 64 hours, but with drug tests, detection can last as long as 90 days.
Search Vyvanse Drug Rehab / Detox & Mental Health Topics & Resources
Sources
- (2008) Substance Use Disorders in Children and Adolescents With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Implications for Treatment and the Role of the Primary Care Physician. The Primary Care Companion to the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2446489/
- (September 2013) Assessing prescription stimulant use, misuse, and diversion among youth 10 to 18. Current Opinion in Psychiatry. from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5832028/
- Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2007/021977lbl.pdf
- (September 2016) Prescription Drug Use and Misuse in the United States: Results from the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. from https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/NSDUH-FFR2-2015/NSDUH-FFR2-2015.htm
- (May 2011) Bulimia Nervosa Among Methamphetamine Dependent Adults: Association With Outcomes 3 Years After Treatment. Eating Disorders. from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3159413/.