Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is an ADHD medication that’s also used off-label to treat other conditions, such as binge eating disorder. It’s often used by people who aren’t diagnosed with the condition but who have a history of frequent episodes of extreme overeating. It can help people with BED reduce the frequency of their episodes and improve their overall quality of life. The drug may also lead to weight loss, but many factors can influence how much weight is lost on the medication.
In two clinical trials, Vyvanse was found to significantly reduce the number of binge-eating episodes in adults with BED. In the studies, 40% and 36% of the patients who were given Vyvanse reported no binge-eating episodes compared to 14% and 13% of the people who took a placebo. In addition, those who took Vyvanse didn’t attempt to reverse their episodes of overeating by using laxatives, fasting or vomiting.
Some people who take Vyvanse may experience significant weight loss while taking the medication. In these cases, the drug helps them lose excess weight by suppressing their appetite and increasing energy levels, which makes it easier to exercise and burn calories. Other factors that may play a role in how much weight is lost include diet, sleep patterns and hormones.
The drug’s effectiveness in reducing BED symptoms and promoting weight loss is often related to the dosage level. In most cases, the doctor will start the patient on a low dose and then gradually increase it. This is known as titration. The goal is to reach the maximum effective dose, which can range from 30 mg to 70 mg per day. Your doctor will consider several factors when determining the right dose, including the severity of your symptoms and how well you respond to treatment.
If you are taking Vyvanse, it’s important to tell your doctor if you have any heart problems or high blood pressure. The medicine can raise your blood pressure and heart rate, which could be dangerous for those with these conditions. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure and heart rate closely while you’re on the medication.
It’s also important to tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding. The medication can pass into breast milk and cause serious side effects in a nursing baby. These can include feeding problems, slowed growth and serious cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) problems. Your doctor will likely suggest that you stop breastfeeding while you’re taking the medication. They may recommend a different medication for you instead. This will help protect your child’s health and development. They may also suggest that you continue with treatment if your child isn’t growing as expected or is experiencing irritability and mood changes while on the medication. They’ll also check your child’s height and weight regularly to make sure their growth isn’t being affected by the drug. If it is, your doctor may suggest stopping Vyvanse or adjusting the dosage to help with their growth. vyvanse 40 mg weight loss