Vyvanse is a central nervous system stimulant used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. When taken in small doses, Vyvanse can be effective. However, like all psychoactive drugs, Vyvanse can be misused and overused. If you believe that Vyvanse use is causing harmful side effects, a good drug treatment program can help you build the skills you need to get your life under control. If your teen was prescribed Vyvanse and shows signs of aggression, social isolation, or intoxication, contact Destinations for Teens by calling 877.466.0620 to learn about our stimulant addiction treatment programs.
What Is Vyvanse?
Vyvanse is a type of amphetamine salt that is swallowed in pill form. Its main ingredient is lisdexamfetamine. There is a high potential for Vyvanse abuse, and it is sold on the street under the names V-twin, steamo, zaded and Vicky. Chemically, the medication compares to crystal methamphetamine abuse. While most drugs in this class provide effects that last four to six hours, the side effects of Vyvanse last 12 to 14 hours. The overall result of this particular ADHD medication is one of focus and energy. You do not get high on it, but teens still buy the drug on the streets to stay awake all night or cram for tests. According to the Monitoring the Future survey published in June 2017, 1.5 in 100 high school students abuse Vyvanse.
Side Effects of Vyvanse
General side effects of Vyvanse include insomnia, rapid heart rate, anxiety, diarrhea, vomiting, and headaches. Taking the drug also makes you feel jittery, weak, and overly alert when you use too much of it. Seizures are a potentially dangerous side effect of Vyvanse. Many parents wonder if teens really abuse this particular drug since the drugmaker Shire claims it is impossible to do so. Unfortunately, this claim is false. The U.S. Department of Justice fined the manufacturer of Vyvanse $56.5 million in 2014 after a study indicated the drug is as easily abused as other amphetamines. According to the Department of Justice and that successful fine, Vyvanse has the potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction. As an amphetamine, the drug changes the brain and its reward and pleasure systems. Its most deadly side effects are serious cardiac events and sudden death, according to the black box warning on its label. Withdrawal symptoms, fatigue, cravings, and depression also occur.
Stimulant Addiction in CA High School Students
Many parents are shocked to learn that a medication prescribed by their child’s psychiatrist has such a high potential for misuse. Teens often make the mistake of thinking that taking more of an ADHD drug will improve their grades. Unfortunately, high doses of Vyvanse, or any stimulant, make it impossible for people to concentrate and think clearly.
Teen Treatment for Vyvanse Addiction
Teen years are a time for trying many new things and learning about independent decision-making. But these years also lead many to make bad decisions, such as drug abuse or drinking. If your teen falls into an addiction to any drug like Vyvanse, help is available in California. This help includes important therapies and programs, such as:
- Residential treatment
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Mental health focus
- CBT and DBT behavioral therapies
- Music therapy
- Yoga and mindfulness
- Individual therapy
Find a California Teen Rehab
Destinations for Teens in Woodland Hills, CA, treats teens exclusively. At Destinations for Teens, your young person finds the support and security they need to fully grow from their substance abuse into a healthier life of recovery. Call Destinations for Teens now at 877.466.0620 to learn more about available programs and get the help your loved one needs before the side effects of Vyvanse limit their options.