Millions of people in the United States take prescription medications to manage medical and mental health conditions. People may take prescription stimulant drugs to manage the symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Some of these medications have the potential for abuse and addiction.
Vyvanse is an FDA-approved prescription stimulant drug used to treat ADHD. People who abuse Vyvanse may develop a physical dependence on it. Stopping Vyvanse suddenly can lead to symptoms of withdrawal, which may increase the risk of a relapse.
This article will explore what to expect during Vyvanse withdrawal. You will learn:
- Common Vyvanse withdrawal symptoms
- What to expect throughout the Vyvanse withdrawal timeline
- How long Vyvanse withdrawal lasts
- What treatment is available during Vyvanse detox
- Where to find comprehensive Vyvanse addiction treatment and support
If you or someone you love struggles with Vyvanse abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the treatment specialists at Archstone Behavioral Health to learn about our medical detox programs and other treatment options. Reach out with questions, assistance verifying insurance, or to schedule an intake appointment.
Understanding Vyvanse Abuse and Addiction
Vyvanse is the brand name for a drug called lisdexamfetamine dimesylate. People may take Vyvanse to manage the symptoms of ADHD, binge eating disorder, and other conditions. It affects dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which increases central nervous system (CNS) activity. This can reduce symptoms of attention-deficit disorders.
Vyvanse is a Schedule II drug, meaning that it has a medical use and a risk for dependence. People who abuse Vyvanse can develop a physical dependence on it.
Examples of Vyvanse abuse include:
- Taking higher doses than prescribed
- Taking Vyvanse more often than prescribed
- Ingesting Vyvanse differently than prescribed
- Taking Vyvanse recreationally (without a prescription)
Surveys show that adolescents and young adults abuse prescription stimulants more than other groups. People may use Vyvanse or other stimulants to improve focus, increase energy, or enhance physical performance.
Taking high doses of Vyvanse for a prolonged period can change how the brain and body work. These changes can make it very challenging to stop using Vyvanse. Many people need the support of addiction treatment programs to stop taking Vyvanse and prevent relapse.
Common Vyvanse Withdrawal Symptoms
When someone with Vyvanse dependence suddenly stops taking this drug, they may experience a “Vyvanse crash” and other symptoms of Vyvanse withdrawal. Common symptoms of withdrawal include:
- Depression
- Muscle aches
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Tremors
- Fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
- Increased appetite
People may also have intense cravings for Vyvanse. These and other symptoms can make it very challenging to avoid a relapse.
Many people with Vyvanse addiction require intensive treatment in a detox center and other forms of treatment to overcome this condition.
Exploring the Vyvanse Withdrawal Timeline
Many people begin to experience withdrawal symptoms within 36 hours of taking their last dose of Vyvanse. Here is what to expect throughout the Vyvanse withdrawal timeline.
Day 1-2
During the first two days of withdrawal, people may experience severe fatigue and insomnia. Intense cravings are common during this stage. People require intensive support and supervision to avoid a relapse during this critical period of detox.
Day 3-5
Cravings continue. People may also begin to develop psychological symptoms like depression and anxiety. They may also experience mood swings and irritability, as well as headaches and intense cravings.
Week 1-2
Withdrawal symptoms may continue for a week or more. Brain fog, anxiety, increased appetite, and mood swings are common during this stage of detox. People may also continue to struggle with intense, persistent cravings.
Week 3 and beyond
For most people, withdrawal symptoms will begin to fade before or during the third week of detox. However, some continue to experience insomnia, depression, and other symptoms for longer periods.
Vyvanse withdrawal can be very challenging. Physical and emotional support are critical to help people avoid relapse. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our detox and recovery support programs.
How Long Does Vyvanse Withdrawal Last?
There are many factors that affect how long Vyvanse withdrawal lasts and the intensity of a person’s symptoms. These include:
- General health and metabolism
- The dose of Vyvanse a person took
- How long they had abused Vyvanse
- Weight and body composition
- Other medications or substances a person was taking at the same time
The body begins to metabolize Vyvanse as soon as it reaches the bloodstream. Generally, the body eliminates Vyvanse completely in around 60 hours. However, withdrawal symptoms may linger for days or weeks after a person’s last dose as their body adjusts to the absence of this drug.
Treatment During Vyvanse Withdrawal
Medical detox programs provide intensive, compassionate support for people struggling with Vyvanse addiction. A Vyvanse detox treatment plan might include:
- Assessments and screenings
- Round-the-clock supervision, support, and access to treatment
- Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse
- Emotional support
- Holistic therapies to soothe the mind and body, including acupuncture, nutrition support, mindfulness, and more
A detox program provides structured support that can help people have a safe, complete detox. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about our detox and recovery programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Vyvanse label
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Assessment of Amphetamine Withdrawal Symptoms of Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate Treatment for Adults With Binge-Eating Disorder
- Springer Nature: Lisdexamfetamine withdrawal
