Is Vyvanse a controlled substance. What schedule is Vyvanse classified under. How does Vyvanse compare to other medications. What are the potential risks of Vyvanse use. How should Vyvanse be stored and disposed of safely.

Understanding Vyvanse’s Classification as a Controlled Substance

Vyvanse, known by its generic name lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States. This classification is significant due to the drug’s potential for abuse and dependence. But what exactly does this mean for patients and healthcare providers?

Schedule II substances are characterized by:

• High potential for abuse
• Accepted medical use in treatment (with or without severe restrictions)
• Potential for severe psychological or physical dependence

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) places Vyvanse in this category because its active ingredient, lisdexamfetamine, is converted to dextroamphetamine in the body. Dextroamphetamine, a potent central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, is also classified as a Schedule II drug.

The Therapeutic Uses of Vyvanse: Beyond Its Classification

Despite its controlled status, Vyvanse has important medical applications. It is FDA-approved for:

1. Treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children aged 6 to 17 years
2. Management of moderate-to-severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults

These approved uses highlight the balance between the drug’s therapeutic benefits and its potential risks. Healthcare providers must carefully weigh these factors when prescribing Vyvanse.

How does Vyvanse work in the body?

Vyvanse is a prodrug, meaning it’s inactive until metabolized in the body. Once ingested, it’s converted to dextroamphetamine, which increases the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This action helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control in individuals with ADHD, and reduces binge-eating episodes in those with BED.

Vyvanse vs. Opioids: Clarifying Common Misconceptions

A common question among patients is whether Vyvanse is an opioid. The answer is no. Vyvanse belongs to the class of CNS stimulants, not opioids. This distinction is crucial for understanding its effects and potential risks.

Key differences between Vyvanse and opioids include:

• Mechanism of action: Vyvanse affects neurotransmitters related to attention and impulse control, while opioids primarily target pain receptors
• Primary uses: Vyvanse is used for ADHD and BED, while opioids are primarily for pain management
• Risk profile: Both carry risks of addiction, but the nature of dependence and withdrawal symptoms differ

The FDA’s Boxed Warning: Understanding the Risks of Vyvanse

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has placed a Boxed Warning on Vyvanse, the most stringent warning for prescription drugs. This warning emphasizes the high potential for abuse and dependence associated with CNS stimulants like Vyvanse.

What does the Boxed Warning entail?

The warning highlights several key points:

• High abuse potential of CNS stimulants, including Vyvanse
• Risk of dependence with prolonged use
• Necessity for healthcare providers to assess abuse risk before prescribing
• Importance of monitoring patients for signs of abuse and dependence during treatment

This warning serves as a crucial reminder for both healthcare providers and patients about the need for careful use and monitoring of Vyvanse.

Recognizing and Responding to Vyvanse Overdose

While Vyvanse is not an opioid, it can still lead to overdose, which can be life-threatening. Recognizing the signs of a Vyvanse overdose is crucial for prompt intervention.

What are the symptoms of a Vyvanse overdose?

Symptoms may include:

• Agitation and restlessness
• Rapid breathing
• Changes in blood pressure
• Nausea and vomiting
• Muscle cramps or pain
• Irregular heart rhythm
• Confusion or hallucinations
• Seizures
• In severe cases, coma

If you suspect a Vyvanse overdose, it’s critical to seek emergency medical attention immediately by calling 911. Swift action can be life-saving in these situations.

Safe Storage and Disposal of Vyvanse: Minimizing Risks

Given Vyvanse’s classification as a controlled substance, proper storage and disposal are crucial to prevent misuse and protect others.

How should Vyvanse be stored?

To ensure safe storage:

• Keep Vyvanse in a locked cabinet or safe
• Store at room temperature (68째F to 77째F / 20째C to 25째C)
• Protect from light
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

What’s the proper way to dispose of unused Vyvanse?

For safe disposal:

• Participate in DEA “Take Back Day” events in your community
• Use authorized collection sites (often available at pharmacies)
• Do not flush or throw away in household trash

Proper disposal helps prevent accidental ingestion, misuse, and environmental contamination.

Legal and Ethical Considerations Surrounding Vyvanse Use

The controlled status of Vyvanse carries significant legal and ethical implications for both patients and healthcare providers.

Is it legal to share Vyvanse with others?

No, it is illegal to give or sell Vyvanse to anyone else, even if they have a similar condition. This act is punishable by law and can result in severe legal consequences.

What are the responsibilities of healthcare providers when prescribing Vyvanse?

Healthcare providers must:

• Assess the patient’s risk of abuse before prescribing
• Monitor for signs of misuse, abuse, or dependence during treatment
• Educate patients about the risks and proper use of the medication
• Follow strict prescribing guidelines and documentation requirements

These responsibilities help ensure the safe and appropriate use of Vyvanse while minimizing the risks associated with its controlled status.

Navigating Treatment: Balancing Benefits and Risks of Vyvanse

For individuals with ADHD or BED, Vyvanse can be a valuable treatment option. However, its benefits must be carefully weighed against its potential risks.

How can patients and healthcare providers work together to ensure safe Vyvanse use?

Effective collaboration involves:

• Open and honest communication about symptoms, effects, and concerns
• Regular follow-up appointments to assess treatment efficacy and monitor for side effects
• Adherence to prescribed dosages and treatment plans
• Awareness of potential signs of dependence or abuse
• Consideration of alternative treatments if risks outweigh benefits

By working closely with healthcare providers, patients can maximize the therapeutic benefits of Vyvanse while minimizing potential risks.

Future Perspectives: Research and Development in ADHD and BED Treatment

As our understanding of ADHD and BED evolves, so too does the landscape of treatment options. Ongoing research aims to develop new medications with improved efficacy and safety profiles.

What potential advancements are on the horizon for ADHD and BED treatment?

Areas of active research include:

• Novel drug formulations with reduced abuse potential
• Non-stimulant alternatives for ADHD treatment
• Combination therapies that address multiple aspects of these disorders
• Personalized medicine approaches to tailor treatments to individual patient profiles

These advancements hold promise for expanding treatment options and improving outcomes for individuals with ADHD and BED.

In conclusion, understanding Vyvanse’s classification as a Schedule II controlled substance is crucial for patients, healthcare providers, and the general public. While it offers significant therapeutic benefits for ADHD and BED, its potential for abuse and dependence necessitates careful management and monitoring. By adhering to proper use, storage, and disposal practices, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, patients can safely navigate treatment with Vyvanse. As research continues to advance, we can look forward to even more effective and safer treatment options in the future.

Is Vyvanse a controlled substance / narcotic drug?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on May 25, 2023.

Key Points

• Vyvanse (generic name: lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) is a Schedule II federally controlled substance in the United States. Vyvanse is not a narcotic. It is in the class of drugs known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants.
• Vyvanse is a schedule C-II controlled substance because it’s ingredient, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, is converted to dextroamphetamine (the active agent) in the body. Dextroamphetamine is also classified as a C-II drug.
• Vyvanse contains a Boxed Warning, the most stringent FDA warning for prescription drugs, that states that CNS stimulants (amphetamines and methylphenidate-containing products), including Vyvanse, have a high potential for abuse and dependence.
• Your doctor will assess your risk of abuse prior to prescribing Vyvanse, and monitor you for signs of abuse and dependence while on therapy.

Why is Vyvanse a Schedule II drug?

Within the federal U.S.Controlled Substances Act there are five schedules (I-V) that are used to classify drugs based upon their abuse potential, accepted medical applications, safety and potential for addiction.

Vyvanse has been placed in Schedule II by the DEA. Drugs that are placed in Schedule II:

• have a high potential for abuse.
• have a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the U.S. or a currently accepted medical use with severe restrictions.
• are drugs where abuse of the drug may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.

Vyvanse is used for treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children ages 6 to 17 years of age, as well as moderate-to-severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults.

Vyvanse is converted to dextroamphetamine in the body after a dose is taken. Dextroamphetamine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, in the same class of methylphenidate (brand examples: Ritalin, Daytrana) or amphetamine (brand example: Adzenys XR-ODT).

Is Vyvanse an opioid?

No, Vyvanse is not an opioid or narcotic, but it still can cause addiction or an overdose. Vyvanse is a CNS stimulant approved by the FDA to treat attention deficit activity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder (BED).

Opioids are a class of drugs primarily used to treat moderate-to-severe pain. Examples of common C-II prescription opioids in the U.S. include hydrocodone (brand example: Hysingla ER), oxycodone (brand examples: Oxycontin, Xtampza ER) and morphine.

If you or someone you know has taken too much Vyvanse, either by accident or on purpose, call 911 and get emergency help immediately. An overdose of Vyvanse can be deadly.

Signs or symptoms that someone may show if they have overdosed include:

• agitation, restlessness, panic
• blurred vision
• blood pressure changes
• fast breathing
• nausea or vomiting
• stomach pain
• muscle cramps or pain
• trembling
• diarrhea
• heart palpitations, irregular heart rhythm
• confusion, hallucinations
• attempt to harm themselves or others
• sweating
• overactive reflexes
• seizures
• coma

Should I keep Vyvanse locked-up?

Because Vyvanse is a controlled substance with a high potential for abuse, misuse and addiction, Vyvanse should always be stored in a safe place that is preferably locked, like a locked cabinet. Store at room temperature (68°F to 77°F / 20°C to 25°C) and protect from light.

Do not give or sell Vyvanse to anyone else. Selling or giving Vyvanse to others may harm them and it is against the law.

If you stop taking Vyvanse, you should dispose of the remaining unused or expired drug by a medicine take-back program. Contact your local pharmacy and ask about the next DEA “Take Back Day” in your community where you can safely dispose of controlled substances.

Bottom Line

• Vyvanse is a Schedule II federally controlled substance in the class of prescription drugs known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. It is not a narcotic (opioid). However, Vyvanse is still associated with the potential for misuse, abuse, dependence and overdose.
• Vyvanse should always be stored in a safe place, preferably a locked cabinet. It is against the law to give or sell Vyvanse to anyone else.
• If you stop taking Vyvanse, you should dispose of the remaining unused or expired drug by a DEA medicine take-back program. Ask your pharmacist where these are held in your community.

This is not all the information you need to know about Vyvanse for safe and effective use. Review the full product information here, and discuss this information with your doctor or other health care provider.

References

• Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) [Package insert]. Revised Jan. 2017. Shire US. Lexington, MA. Accessed June 4, 2020 at http://pi.shirecontent.com/PI/PDFs/Vyvanse_USA_ENG.pdf

Related medical questions

• Adderall vs Vyvanse – What’s the difference between them?
• How long does Vyvanse stay in your system?
• How soon for Vyvanse to start working and how long does it last?
• Is it okay to take Vyvanse while on birth control?
• Does Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) show up on a drug test?
• Ritalin vs Vyvanse – What’s the difference between them?
• Modafinil vs Adderall: What’s the difference?
• Focalin vs Adderall: What’s the difference?
• How much Adderall can I take?
• How long does Adderall withdrawal last?
• What are the rules for controlled substance prescription refills?

Drug information

• Vyvanse Information for Consumers
• Vyvanse Information for Healthcare Professionals
  (includes dosage details)
• Side Effects of Vyvanse
  (detailed)

Related support groups

• Vyvanse
  (135 questions, 828 members)
• Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  (438 questions, 2,473 members)
• Drug Dependence
  (47 questions, 537 members)
• Binge Eating Disorder
  (61 questions, 171 members)

Medical Disclaimer

Is Vyvanse a controlled substance?

As an amphetamine, Vyvanse is a Schedule II controlled substance. Learn how to take Vyvanse safely or switch to an ADHD med that isn’t a controlled substance.

More than 6.1 million children in the United States have been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, more commonly referred to as ADHD. Although males are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than females, ADHD can affect people of all ages, races, and genders. ADHD is often accompanied by other disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or behavioral disorders. If not treated properly, ADHD can affect all aspects of a person’s life. 

Fortunately, there are treatment options available to those who have been diagnosed with ADHD, including behavior therapy and medication. Vyvanse, the brand name for lisdexamfetamine, is among the most common prescription medications used for the treatment of ADHD symptoms, such as impulsivity and difficulty focusing. It is also the only FDA-approved stimulant used to treat binge eating disorder (BED). 

Vyvanse is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance because of its associated higher risk of developing substance use disorder (SUD) and abuse. Following the prescriber’s instructions will help reduce the potential risks associated with taking Vyvanse. 

If you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD or BED, it’s important to understand your treatment options. This article provides an overview of Vyvanse, including what it is, what it means to be prescribed a controlled substance, and alternative medications. 

RELATED: Considering ADHD medication? Your guide to adult ADHD treatment

What is Vyvanse?

“Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a central nervous system stimulant drug used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adults, adolescents, and children aged 6 years and older, as well as binge eating disorder in adults,” says Kelly Johnson-Arbor, MD, the medical director of the National Capital Poison Center. 

Vyvanse (is a prodrug of dextroamphetamine, meaning the drug is inactive until it’s absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract where it is then converted to dextroamphetamine. Dextroamphetamine is responsible for increasing the activity of dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters that affect mood and attention, in the brain.

Vyvanse isn’t an opioid or a narcotic. It’s a type of central nervous system (CNS) stimulant drug, known as an amphetamine, that is most used in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Amphetamines are also commonly used in the treatment of narcolepsy and obesity. 

RELATED: List of stimulants

Is Vyvanse a controlled substance?

“Amphetamines and their derivatives are Schedule II controlled substances in the United States,” Dr. Johnson-Arbor says. “Even though they are not traditional narcotic drugs, like heroin or fentanyl, amphetamines still have a high potential for abuse and their use may lead to psychological or physical dependence. Because of this, amphetamines are classified as controlled substances.”

Per the Controlled Substances Act, Schedule II drugs are those with a high potential for abuse and complications as a result of misuse, according to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Due to the higher risk of misuse and dependency, it’s important to only use the medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider and store it in a safe place where it will not be accessed by others.

What does that mean for me?

“While amphetamines, including Vyvanse, are classified as controlled substances, this does not mean they are unsafe,” Dr. Johnson-Arbor explains. “Rather, it means that the drugs must be prescribed and used with caution, as patients who use these drugs may experience addiction or withdrawal symptoms.”

For this reason, there are stricter guidelines and regulations for controlled substances, which help ensure proper usage and help reduce the risk of misuse. Many controlled substances are not eligible to be refilled early and often require a visit to your prescribing healthcare provider for refill authorization. If certain criteria are met, however, your prescribing healthcare provider may be able to issue 90-day supplies of prescriptions. There also may be special requirements for ordering controlled substances through mail-order pharmacies. 

RELATED: 11 common pharmacy problems when filling prescriptions 

Side effects of Vyvanse

As with other medications, there are potential side effects associated with Vyvanse. Common side effects of Vyvanse may include: 

• Dry mouth
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Increased risk for heart problems, including heart attack, stroke, and sudden death in people who have heart issues or defects
• New or worsened bipolar disorder 
• Mental health concerns, including new or worsened behavior and thought problems
• New or worsened psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations or hearing voices 

It’s important to contact your healthcare provider or emergency room for medical advice if you are experiencing any side effects that may be concerning, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or manic symptoms. 

RELATED: Vyvanse side effects in women | Vyvanse side effects in men | Vyvanse side effects in kids

Signs of prescription drug abuse

As with other controlled substances, there is an increased risk of misuse with Vyvanse. It’s important to be aware of signs of prescription drug abuse, which may include:

• Taking more than prescribed
• Taking more often than directed
• Taking it for longer than prescribed
• Taking it without a prescription
• Mixing it with other drugs or alcohol 
• Snorting, injecting, or using it in ways other than what is directed by your healthcare provider

While Vyvanse is legal when prescribed for medical use and used as directed, it’s illegal to give away or sell any prescription medication, including Vyvanse. It’s also illegal and potentially dangerous to take Vyvanse that was prescribed to someone else. 

Risks and complications of prescription drug abuse

If Vyvanse is not taken as directed, it can lead to complications, including: 

• Tolerance: When a person gradually stops responding to a drug with repeated use, requiring them to take a higher dose of that drug to achieve the same result as they did at first
• Dependence: When the body learns to depend on the drug and will go through withdrawal symptoms if use is discontinued
• Withdrawal: The physical and mental symptoms that occur once the drug intake has been reduced or stopped completely
• Substance use disorder (SUD): A mental disorder in which a person is unable to control their substance usage
• Overdose: Taking too much of a drug or medication, causing a severe adverse reaction or death

To decrease the risk of misuse or complications, it’s extremely important to only take your Vyvanse prescription as directed by a healthcare professional. It’s also important to store and dispose of Vyvanse safely to eliminate the risk of someone else gaining access to your prescription medication.

RELATED: Vyvanse dosage

What can I take instead of Vyvanse?

“All stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD, including Adderall, Vyvanse, and Ritalin, are controlled substances; however, there are non-stimulant alternatives used to treat ADHD that are not controlled substances,” Dr. Johnson-Arbor adds. 

Qelbree (viloxazine), Strattera (atomoxetine), Intuniv (guanfacine), and Kapvay (clonidine) are non-stimulants approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the treatment of ADHD. 

While non-stimulant ADHD medications are less effective than stimulant medications, they generally aren’t accompanied by the same serious side effects and risks of abuse. They do, however, have their own potential side effects that you should discuss with your healthcare provider before beginning any prescription drug. Vyvanse, on the other hand, is currently the only FDA-approved medication for the treatment of BED in adults. 

“If you have ADHD but wish to avoid the use of controlled substances for the treatment of this disorder, talk with your healthcare provider about alternatives to stimulant medications,” Dr. Johnson-Arbor says. 

Your healthcare provider will help determine the correct treatment plan for you. You may be asked about past or current substance abuse issues, medical history, family medical history, and any other prescription and nonprescription drugs you take. This includes supplements and antidepressants that may cause potential drug interactions. It’s also important to inform your healthcare provider whether you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. 

Finding the right medication and dosage to treat ADHD or BED can be a process of trial and error. Be patient and work closely with your care team to find the best solution for you. 

If you are having difficulty affording your ADHD medication, SingleCare’s prescription drug saving card can help you save up to 80% off your next prescription.