Vyvanse Withdrawal

What is Vyvanse withdrawal?

Vyvanse is a stimulant that increases the speed of brain activity and is used to treat conditions of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and binge eating disorders in adults. It affects the body by suppressing appetite, sharpening memory, increasing energy and producing euphoria. Hence it is also abused by people for academic, recreational and weight loss reasons.

The brain and the body become dependent on the medication due to its use over a prolonged period of time. Thus, when the intake of the medication is stopped there is a simultaneous decrease in the level of neurotransmitters leading to a condition called vyvanse withdrawal.

Vyvanse Withdrawal Symptoms

• Fatigue
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Increased appetite
• Cravings
• Suicidal thoughts
• Headaches
• Hypersomnia
• Dysphoric mood depression
• Lack of motivation
• Aggression
• Restlessness
• Vivid or lucid dreams

Assessment

• Patient’s medical history must be thoroughly assessed to choose the correct method of treatment
• Evaluate the dosage, frequency of intake and the period it has been taken for
• Speak to a psychiatrist to determine the hidden reasons for its intake
• Lab tests reveal the toxins that are affecting the brain and the body

Treatment

• Detoxification is the first step in the treatment and it helps to get the drug out of the system
• Suddenly stopping the intake of the medication can have adverse effects on health, hence gradual lowering is recommended
• Behavioral based therapy and medication is helpful
• Consult a psychiatrics to open up and talk about the problems
• Speak to people who have been or are undergoing the process of rehabilitation

Prevention

• Dosage of the medication at times and in amounts that have not been prescribed must be avoided
• Avoid over exertion and take adequate rest as withdrawal causes extreme tiredness

How long does it take to detox from Vyvanse?

Generally it takes several weeks for the body to detox from vyvanse. The withdrawal symptoms may set in within 24 hours and last for 3-4 weeks. The first week of the detoxification process is known as the ‘crash period’ as it is characterized by long periods of sleep.