Vyvanse (Lisdexamphetamine) – General Information

Vyvanse is the trade name for the drug Lisdexamphetamine utilised as a stimulant of the central nervous system. In other words, it can exert positive effects on various nerve fibres and within the brain by increasing the production of certain chemicals.

Vyvanse is generally used to manage attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults and children over the age of six years. Here we shall take a look at this drug in a bit more detail.

What is Vyvanse?

Vyvanse is Lisdexamphetamine. By itself, Lisdexamphetamine is an inactive prodrug that requires activation within the body. Once taken as a medication, a part of this drug is broken down releasing the active component that goes on to exert its physiological effects.

How does Vyvanse work?

In the inactive form, Vyvanse does not have any formal action within the body. However, once it enters the bloodstream either following absorption after oral intake or intravenous use, the enzymes within the red blood cells break down the lysine component of Lisdexamphetamine releasing the active dextroamphetamine product.

The clinical application of Vyvanse is in treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. However, it is not very clear how exactly Vyvanse works in managing this condition. In general, the belief is that the amphetamines produced following activation of Vyvanse can have a stimulating effect on the central nervous system, reducing the symptoms that patients with ADHD experience. In addition, amphetamines can block neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine within the specific nerve fibres in the brain which appears to contribute to its clinical effect.

The use of Vyvanse has to be as per the prescription given to the patient by the doctor. This is because overuse or abuse of the drug can result in serious side-effects that can affect a patient both physically and psychologically.

Vyvanse is an inactive prodrug Lisdexamphetamine which is converted in the body to active dextro amphetamine. Its mechanism of action is unclear but it is utilised in the management of ADHD fairly successfully.