Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment of Vyvanse Overdose 

Vyvanse is a medicine that doctors give to people with issues like ADHD & binge eating. But, taking too much can be dangerous. It can cause problems like feeling too restless, getting seizures, or even having heart issues. 

 

This article explains the signs of taking too much Vyvanse, what to do in such cases, and how to stay safe.

What Is Vyvanse

Vyvanse is the brand name of a medicine called lisdexamfetamine. It is a type of medication that works on the brain. Doctors prescribe it to people who have ADHD. This includes children 6 years and older, as well as adults. Doctors also use it to treat a problem called binge-eating disorder in adults. [1]

How Vyvanse Works

Vyvanse is a special kind of medicine; it doesn’t start working right away when you take it. Your body has to change it first. After you take this medicine, it is absorbed into your bloodstream. Then your body changes it into a helpful chemical called dextroamphetamine. This change occurs gradually, allowing the medicine to work effectively throughout the day. It also makes it difficult for someone to misuse this medicine in the wrong way, like snorting or injecting.

 

Once the body turns this medicine into dextroamphetamine, it helps the brain. It raises two brain chemicals, which are dopamine & norepinephrine. These chemicals help you stay focused, behave better, & feel more motivated. 

 

So, Vyvanse goes in quietly, changes inside your body, and then helps your brain function more effectively. [2]

Dosage and How You Can Take It

Vyvanse comes in two types: mainly capsules & chewable tablets. The strength of each pill can be between 10 mg & 70 mg. Most people take Vyvanse once in the morning; it can be taken with or without food.

 

Doctors usually start with a 30 mg dose each day. If necessary, the doctor can gradually increase the dose by 10 or 20 mg each week. The highest dose that can be safely taken in one day is 70 mg. The doctor will assess how well the medicine works and how you feel before making any changes.

Can People Misuse Vyvanse

Vyvanse is a strong medicine; in the U.S., it is a Schedule II drug, which means people can get addicted to it or misuse it if they are not careful.

 

Vyvanse needs to be changed inside the body to start working. Because of this, it doesn’t give a fast “high” if someone tries to snort or inject it. But people can still misuse it.

 

Some people take Vyvanse without a doctor’s permission. Others take too much or use it to lose weight or feel a quick boost. This is dangerous and can cause serious health problems, like:

 

• Fast heartbeat.

• High blood pressure.

• Feeling very nervous or anxious.

• Risk of addiction.

• Even an overdose can be life-threatening.

 

You should always take Vyvanse only when a doctor prescribes it to you & take it as directed by the doctor.

What are the uses of Vyvanse?

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is used to treat ADHD in children (6 +) and adults, and is also the only medication approved for managing moderate to severe binge-eating disorder in adults. [3]

Vyvanse Helps Treat ADHD

Doctors use Vyvanse to treat ADHD in kids 6 years & older, plus in teens and adults. The FDA has approved it for this use.

 

Vyvanse helps people with ADHD by:

• Making it easier to pay attention.

• Helping them stop acting without thinking.

• Making it easier to stay organized.

 

Vyvanse works by raising two brain chemicals, dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals help people focus better and control their actions.

Vyvanse Helps with Binge-Eating in Adults

It is the only medication that the FDA approves to treat binge-eating disorder in adults. People with binge-eating disorder generally eat too much food in a short time & they cannot stop, even when they want to stop. Vyvanse helps by:

 

• Reducing the number of binge-eating days each week.

• Lowering cravings and food thoughts.

• Assisting people to stop themselves before they overeat.

 

It achieves this by enhancing the brain’s functioning. It raises dopamine & norepinephrine levels, which makes it easy for people to say no to binge eating.

What Happens If You Take Too Much Vyvanse

An overdose occurs when someone takes more of the medicine than their body can generally manage. This can cause some serious issues.

 

This medicine is to help people with ADHD or binge-eating disorder, but taking too much by mistake or on purpose can be risky.

 

How much is an overdose can be different for different people. It depends on things like:

• Body weight.

• How accustomed someone is to medicine.

• Other medicines they take.

• Their overall health.

 

It’s vital to take Vyvanse only as your doctor instructs and never exceed the recommended dose.

How Can a Vyvanse Overdose Happen

An overdose can happen if someone takes too much Vyvanse. For example, taking over 70 mg in one day, or extra doses, can be dangerous. Huge amounts over 100 mg can cause seizures, heart problems, or even be life-threatening.

 

People can overdose if they-

• Take more Vyvanse than the doctor said.

• Use it without consulting a doctor.

• Try to get a “high”.

• Use it to stay awake.

• Use it to lose weight.

Signs of a Vyvanse Overdose

Taking too much Vyvanse can make the body act in dangerous ways. It can start with small signs and grow into severe problems if not treated quickly.

 

Early Body Signs

• The person can become very nervous and is unable to sit still.

• The black part of the eyes may look larger than usual, even in bright light.

• The person may breathe rapidly and exhibit small body tremors.

 

Heart and Chest Problems

• The heart works too hard, which can be detrimental to health.

• The heart may beat too quickly or in an odd rhythm.

• The person may say their chest hurts or feels tight.

 

Brain and Mental Effects

• The person may see or hear things that are not real.

• They may shake uncontrollably and might pass out.

 

Stomach and Body Temperature Problems

• The person can feel sick, vomit, or have an upset stomach.

• The body can become too hot & sweat excessively. This can cause dehydration or even a fever.

Side Effects or Overdose? Know the Difference

When you take Vyvanse, you may have some small side effects. These can include:

 

• Feeling a little nervous or jumpy

• Having a dry mouth

• Not feeling very hungry

 

These are normal and may resolve on their own after some time. However, if the symptoms become severe, occur daily, or worsen, it may indicate that the dose is too high.

 

For eg:

• Feeling worried all day.

• Having a racing mind that won’t calm down.

• Getting a fast heartbeat that doesn’t slow down.

 

These are not just minor problems, but can also be danger signs. If this happens, please notify an adult and seek medical attention immediately.

Risk Factors for Vyvanse Overdose

Vyvanse overdose risk increases with misuse behaviors (taking higher doses, using others’ prescriptions, or snorting), co‑ingestion of substances like alcohol or other stimulants, and in individuals with heart conditions or mental health issues, all of which promote serious complications. [4]

Common Misuse Behaviors for Vyvanse

• Taking too much, generally more than what the doctor recommended.

• Using it to stay awake or study.

• Snorting or injecting makes it stronger and riskier.

Mixing Vyvanse with Other Things

• Mixing with alcohol can harm your heart and liver.

• Mixing with other stimulants can raise the heart rate too much.

• Mixing with other medications can cause an overdose.

Health Risks

• Heart problems like high blood pressure, arrhythmias, or heart disease make them worse.

• Mental illnesses like anxiety disorders and depression can make anxiety or depression worse.

• Young people and lighter individuals may overdose quickly.

Can a Vyvanse Overdose Cause Death?

Yes, a Vyvanse overdose can cause death, but this does not happen commonly. Although it is still serious, mainly if one takes too much, mixes it with alcohol or other drugs, or already has health issues.

 

Even though Vyvanse is a medicine prescribed by a doctor, using it the wrong way can hurt your body, and taking a considerable amount can be deadly. Someone who suffers from heart problems or mental health issues, like anxiety or depression, is more at risk, as their bodies can have a harder time handling the drug.

 

Most people don’t overdose on purpose. It usually happens when they misuse the medicine. This misuse makes serious health problems and even death more likely. [5]

Staying Safe While Taking Vyvanse

To avoid potential problems with Vyvanse, always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Don’t take more than your dose. Don’t mix it with alcohol or other strong drugs. If you’re feeling stressed or having trouble, it’s okay to ask for help. Talking to someone can make a big difference.

Getting Help from Others

Sometimes, speaking with a counselor can be helpful. They can teach you ways to manage difficult emotions or stress, so you don’t turn to medication to cope.

 

Joining a group, either in real life or online, also helps. You can meet people who’ve been through the same thing. They can offer advice and provide support.

 

It also helps to understand what motivates you to take more medicine. Maybe it’s school stress. Perhaps it’s pressure from friends. Once you are aware of these things, you can try to avoid them or find more effective ways to manage them.

Doctor Visits Matter

It’s a good idea to visit your doctor regularly. They can check how your body is doing and see if the medicine is helping. If something is not right, they can adjust your dose.

 

If you have other health issues, such as heart problems or anxiety, your doctor will ensure that Vyvanse is still safe for you.

 

If you feel like you depend on Vyvanse or don’t feel okay without it, your doctor can slowly help you stop. That way, your body doesn’t get shocked or sick.

Learning Good Habits at Home

You and your family should know how to take Vyvanse properly. You should also learn how to tell if someone has taken too much.

 

Here are some easy safety tips:

• Don’t share your medicines with anyone.

• Keep track of your pills every day.

• Take only what the doctor says.

 

Parents can watch for signs such as moodiness, sleep disturbances, or secretive behavior. If they notice something, getting help early is the best choice.

FAQs

1. What happens when you take too much Vyvanse?

Taking too much Vyvanse can make you feel extremely unwell. You may feel scared, confused, or experience a rapid heartbeat. In some severe cases, it can cause the body to shake.

 

2. What is the maximum amount of Vyvanse you can take?

Doctors state not to take more than 70 mg in one day. Taking more can cause bad side effects. Never change your dose without consulting your doctor.

 

3. What are the symptoms of the Vyvanse crash?

A Vyvanse crash happens when the medicine wears off:

 

• You might feel tired or sad.

• It may be hard to focus.

• You may feel angry or want more medicine.

 

This happens more often if you stop suddenly or take too much.

 

4. What is the zombie effect on Vyvanse?

The zombie effect refers to a feeling of being dull, too quiet, or lacking emotional intensity. It may happen if your dose is too strong & not right for you.

 

5. What’s stronger, Vyvanse or Adderall?

Both are strong medicines for ADHD. Adderall works faster, so it may feel stronger at first. Vyvanse works more slowly and lasts longer. Which one works better depends on your body and how you react to each.

 

6. What if I accidentally took 140 mg of Vyvanse?

140 mg is a very high dose; you may feel chest pain, panic, or have seizures. Even if you feel fine now, go to the hospital right away.

 

7. How long does Vyvanse stay in your system?

Vyvanse can stay in your body for 2-3 days. Although the effects are usually strong and last for 10 to 14 hours. Some tests can detect it in your body for a few days, depending on how your body processes it.

Get Treatment for Addiction at Alliance Recovery

If you’re dealing with Vyvanse misuse or overdose, you are not alone; real help is available.

 

At Alliance Recovery, we understand what you are going through. Many of us have faced similar battles with prescription drugs. We know how challenging it can be to break free, but recovery is possible, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

 

When you reach out to us, you will have:

• One-on-one therapy & group sessions are designed just for your needs.

• A caring team that supports and encourages your progress.

• Guidance to help you plan your future and stay on track after treatment.

 

You do not have to face this challenge alone. We are here to walk beside you and help you build a healthier, more hopeful life one step at a time.

 

Call our treatment team at (844) 287-8506 to get started.

Sources

[1]https://www.verywellmind.com/vyvanse-profile-pediatric-medications-2633130

[2]https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2873712/

[3]https://www.fda.gov/drugs/news-events-human-drugs/fda-approves-multiple-generics-adhd-and-bed-treatment

[4]https://www.verywellmind.com/vyvanse-addiction-signs-symptoms-and-treatment-5213811

[5]https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a607047.html