Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine) is a drug used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It is a stimulant like Ritalin and Adderall. The difference is the drug is less addictive as it only works when taken orally. Even though the drug cannot be crushed and snorted or injected, some people still develop a Vyvanse addiction.
How Addictive is Vyvanse?
When taken under a doctor, Vyvanse is safe. But when one takes the drug more often than prescribed or in higher doses, addiction is possible. Vyvanse is absorbed by the body slowly and offers the patient more energy throughout the day. It also allows the patient to focus more and for longer periods.
For those without ADHD, this seems like a great way to keep up with demanding schedules so people have self-medicated using this drug. Dependency on the drug happens quickly and users feel depressed, lethargic, and hopeless without more of the drug. Vyvanse addiction is increasing among college students looking to manage education, work, and social lives.
Signs and Symptoms of Vyvanse Addiction
Vyvanse use sharpens focus and attention during the first stages of abuse. This makes it hard to detect Vyvanse addiction, especially if the drug was prescribed by a doctor. This is why it is important to know the signs and symptoms of Vyvanse addiction.
Signs of Vyvanse Addiction:
- Using the drug without a prescription
- Making up symptoms of ADHD to get a prescription
- Using more than recommended by the prescribing doctor
- Making Vyvanse more important than family, friends, employment, and school
Physiological Symptoms of Vyvanse Addiction and Withdrawal:
- Gastrointestinal Disorders
- Rapid heart rate
How to Know if I Am Addicted to Vyvanse?
Speak with your doctor if you think you may have a problem with Vyvanse addiction. He or she may recommend you stop taking the drug for a day or two to see if you have withdrawal symptoms. If you can stop without discomfort, you are not likely addicted. But if stopping causes withdrawal symptoms, your doctor may have you restart the prescription until detox arrangements can be made.
Other Signs and Symptoms of Vyvanse Addiction
Often friends and family may recognize the other signs and symptoms of addiction before the person struggling with substance abuse sees the problem. These other signs include lying about Vyvanse use, stealing the drug from other people, shopping around for doctors who will prescribe the drug, and complaining about doctors who refuse to prescribe.
Another strong sign of substance abuse is a change in character or behavior. A once gentle person may become angry and aggressive when in withdrawal or fearful of not having enough prescription on hand. He or she may be argumentative and relationships will suffer.
After prolonged use of the drug, the ability to focus also decreases. Work and relationships suffer and may end. In the later stages of Vyvanse addiction, some people experience profuse sweating, intense rage, and may pick at their skin. These symptoms need immediate attention so call your doctor or go to an emergency room at the local hospital.
How to Get Help for Vyvanse Addiction?
Speak to your doctor if you are concerned you may be addicted to Vyvanse. If you see signs and symptoms of Vyvanse addiction in a loved one, avoid criticizing or demanding they stop. Addiction is compulsive meaning the person struggling with Vyvanse addiction cannot control his or her behavior. Offer compassion and support to get into treatment.
If you cannot talk compassionately due to relationship damage cause by the addictive behaviors, call Northlake Recovery at (561)-770-6616. Intervention specialists can help you speak with your loved one and offer compassionate and affordable treatment. Call today!