Vyvanse is a stimulant that’s commonly used for the treatment of ADHD. Vyvanse is prescribed for both adults and children who are at least six years old. It’s commonly prescribed for ADHD, and many patients report it helps manage their symptoms.
ADHD is a fairly common condition. In 2023, an estimated 15.5 million adults in the United States had an active ADHD diagnosis. There are several different treatment options available for those with ADHD, but medication is one of the most common. There are also a variety of factors that can have an impact on ADHD.
What is Vyvanse?
Vyvanse, also known by the generic name lisdexamfetamine, is a stimulant that works on the central nervous system.1 While ADHD is the most common condition this medication is prescribed for, it’s also prescribed for the treatment of binge eating disorder.
Vyvanse should only be taken under the guidance of a doctor, as it can be habit-forming and easily abused. If you’re exploring ADHD treatment options, your doctor can help determine whether a prescription like Vyvanse is appropriate.
Vyvanse is a central nervous system stimulant, meaning it works by speeding up processes in the brain, similar to common stimulants like caffeine, only with much greater intensity. Counterintuitively, this helps people with ADHD slow down and focus. Vyvanse should be taken only as prescribed, as deviating from your prescription could reduce the benefits that you receive or lead to dependence.
Vyvanse has a variety of side effects that you should be aware of if you’re considering taking this medication. Some potential side effects include:
- Dry mouth
- Weight loss
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Heightened heart rate
- Growth differences in children
Vyvanse is a serious medication, and combining it with other substances should only be done under the direction of a doctor. If you’re not sure whether or not you can combine Vyvanse with a substance, it’s best to reach out to a medical professional and get their advice about your specific situation.
Combining Cannabis and Vyvanse: What the Latest Research Says
There’s limited research on how cannabis and Vyvanse interact, and their combined effects aren’t fully understood. With no well-documented studies on the safety of combining Vyvanse and cannabis, possible interactions remain unclear.
Vyvanse is a stimulant, and stimulants are known to increase heart rate. Cannabis has a complicated relationship with heart disease. Like stimulants, cannabis is also known to increase heart rate, at least temporarily, immediately following consumption. While limited, there has also been research connecting cannabis use to potential cardiovascular risks.2 The combination of a stimulant like Vyvanse and cannabis could put additional strain on the heart, increasing the potential risk.
No research supports combining cannabis and Vyvanse for any specific health benefit, and doing so may increase side effect risks. Some people share personal stories about cannabis helping with ADHD symptoms, but scientific studies haven’t confirmed its effectiveness. Everyone has a different reaction to cannabis, so it’s not possible to predict how someone will react to this combination of substances.
Are You Considering Using Cannabis and Vyvanse?
Combining cannabis with any substance or medication carries its own risks. Cannabis research is still in its earliest stages, and there is a lot that researchers still don't know. That leaves the door open for unexpected interactions with other substances. If you are considering combining cannabis with any other substance or medication, speak to your doctor for proper medical guidance.
Likewise, stopping the use of a prescribed medication can lead to unintended consequences. Many medications take time to build up in the body. Stopping suddenly can cause unpleasant and potentially serious or even fatal side effects. If you'd like to stop using or replace a medication, you need to follow the guidance of your medical provider to make any approved adjustments safely.
References
- Goodman DW. Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (vyvanse), a prodrug stimulant for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. P T. 2010;35(5):273-287.
↩︎ - DeFilippis EM, Bajaj NS, Singh A, et al. Marijuana Use in Patients With Cardiovascular Disease. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2020;75(3):320-332. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2019.11.025
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The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
