Drug Information Guide
CNS stimulant (amphetamine prodrug)·#12 most prescribed in Canada

Vyvanselisdexamfetamine dimesylate

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) treats ADHD in adults and children, and binge eating disorder. Learn about dosing, side effects, and BC coverage at Pill4Me Pharmacy.

Prescriptions (Canada 2024)

4,000,000 prescriptions

Drug class

CNS stimulant (amphetamine prodrug)

DIN (Canada)

02310066, 02310074 +4 more

What is Vyvanse?

Vyvanse is used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children age 6 and older, adolescents, and adults. It is also approved in Canada for the treatment of moderate-to-severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults.

How it works

Lisdexamfetamine is an inactive prodrug — after you swallow it, enzymes in the blood convert it into active d-amphetamine. Amphetamine increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which improves attention, focus, impulse control, and executive function in people with ADHD. The prodrug design means it has a slower onset and longer, smoother effect than older amphetamines.

Forms & strengths

Capsules: 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg, 70 mg. Can be swallowed whole or opened and the contents dissolved in water and consumed immediately (do not store the mixture).

How to take it

Taken once daily in the morning (taking it later in the day can cause insomnia). Start at 20–30 mg and adjust in increments every 1–2 weeks based on response. Maximum dose is 70 mg/day. Take with or without food — taking with food may reduce appetite suppression during the day. As a controlled substance, prescriptions must be hand-signed by a physician and cannot be faxed or called in. A 30-day supply at a time is typical.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Decreased appetite — often significant; monitor weight in children
  • Difficulty falling asleep (insomnia)
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure
  • Anxiety, irritability, or feeling tense
  • Stomach upset or nausea
  • Emotional rebound ('coming down') in the late afternoon

Serious side effects — seek care immediately

  • New or worsening psychiatric symptoms — psychosis, hallucinations, paranoia, aggression; seek immediate care
  • Cardiovascular events — rare but serious in people with underlying heart conditions; sudden death has been reported in patients with structural heart abnormalities
  • Suppression of growth in children — height and weight must be monitored at every visit
  • Serotonin syndrome — if combined with serotonergic medications; symptoms include agitation, rapid heart rate, fever, muscle twitching
  • Peripheral vasculopathy (including Raynaud's phenomenon) — fingers or toes that turn blue or white in cold

Important warnings

Vyvanse is a controlled substance with potential for abuse and dependence — it should only be used as prescribed, stored securely, and never shared with others

Evaluate for underlying heart conditions before starting — inform your doctor of any personal or family history of heart disease, arrhythmias, or sudden unexplained death

Children must have height, weight, and blood pressure monitored regularly — growth suppression can occur with long-term use

MAOIs are absolutely contraindicated — do not take Vyvanse within 14 days of stopping an MAOI (this combination can cause a potentially fatal hypertensive crisis)

Misuse can lead to serious cardiovascular events and dependence — amphetamines are Schedule I controlled substances in Canada

Who should not take it

  • Use of a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) within the last 14 days — this combination is potentially life-threatening
  • Advanced arteriosclerosis, symptomatic cardiovascular disease, or moderate-to-severe high blood pressure
  • Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
  • History of drug abuse or dependence — use with extreme caution and close monitoring
  • Agitated states
  • Known allergy or sensitivity to amphetamine

Drug interactions

MAOIs (phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline) — absolutely contraindicated, life-threatening hypertensive crisis possible; 14-day washout required. Antacids and urinary alkalinizers (sodium bicarbonate) increase amphetamine absorption and extend its effects. Acidifying agents (vitamin C, ammonium chloride) reduce amphetamine levels. Blood pressure medications may be less effective. SSRIs and SNRIs used together may increase risk of serotonin syndrome. Tricyclic antidepressants may increase cardiovascular effects.

BC PharmaCare coverage

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) may be covered under BC PharmaCare depending on your plan. Covered under Fair PharmaCare for eligible BC residents. Children and adults with psychiatric diagnoses may also qualify for Psychiatric Medications (Plan G) coverage if annual income is under $42,000 — your prescriber applies on your behalf. Coverage amounts vary — Fair PharmaCare covers 70–100% after your annual deductible depending on your income. Call us at 604-705-3644 and we'll check your specific coverage in minutes. No generic version is currently available in Canada. BC PharmaCare covers the brand name where it is on the formulary. Coverage information is a general guide only. Your actual coverage depends on your PharmaCare plan and eligibility. We check coverage for free — call 604-705-3644 or ask at the counter.

Coverage details change — confirm with your Pill4Me pharmacist or visit BC PharmaCare.

Frequently asked questions

Is Vyvanse addictive?
Vyvanse is a Schedule I controlled substance in Canada because amphetamines have potential for abuse and psychological dependence. However, when taken as prescribed by a person with ADHD at therapeutic doses, the risk of developing addiction is low. The prodrug design slows absorption compared to older stimulants, reducing abuse potential. Never take more than prescribed, do not crush or tamper with capsules, and store securely away from others.
Should my child take a break from Vyvanse over the summer?
This is a decision to make with your child's doctor. Planned breaks (called 'drug holidays') during school vacations are sometimes recommended to give the body a rest, allow for growth catch-up, and assess whether the medication is still needed. However, some children have significant difficulties with behaviour, emotional regulation, or safety even without academic demands, and benefits extend beyond school. There is no universal recommendation — it depends on the individual child.
What time of day should I take Vyvanse?
Take Vyvanse first thing in the morning, immediately on waking. Because it is a long-acting medication (typically working for 10–14 hours), taking it in the afternoon or evening is very likely to cause insomnia. If you find it affects your ability to fall asleep even when taken in the morning, discuss this with your doctor — a dose adjustment or earlier timing may help.
Why does my child seem sad or irritable when Vyvanse wears off?
This is called 'rebound' and occurs as the medication level drops in the late afternoon. It can cause irritability, emotional sensitivity, increased hyperactivity, or low mood for 30–60 minutes. It is common and does not mean the medication is wrong for your child. Strategies include a consistent wind-down routine, a snack when the medication wears off, and discussing with your doctor whether an adjusted formulation or dose timing helps.
My child is not eating — what should I do?
Appetite suppression is one of the most common effects of stimulant medications and is most pronounced in the middle of the day when medication levels are highest. Strategies that help: offer a substantial breakfast before the medication kicks in (within 30 minutes of waking), provide a large nutritious snack or meal in the evening when appetite returns, and avoid forcing meals at lunch. Monitor weight regularly with your doctor — if growth is being affected, a dose adjustment or holiday may be recommended.

Related medications

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Questions about Vyvanse?

Our Chilliwack pharmacists can review your medications, check for interactions, and answer any questions — at no charge.

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Medical disclaimer: This page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your pharmacist or prescriber before making any changes to your medications. BC PharmaCare coverage criteria are subject to change.