What is vyvanse made of

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Quick Answer: Vyvanse is a prescription medication containing lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, a prodrug that converts to dextroamphetamine in the body. It's used to treat ADHD and binge eating disorder.

Key Facts

Active Ingredient

Vyvanse contains lisdexamfetamine dimesylate as its active pharmaceutical ingredient. This compound is unique because it's a prodrug, meaning it's inactive until converted in the body. The body's red blood cells naturally metabolize lisdexamfetamine into dextroamphetamine, which is responsible for the medication's therapeutic effects.

Inactive Ingredients

Beyond the active ingredient, Vyvanse capsules contain several inactive ingredients that provide structure and stability:

How Vyvanse Works

Unlike other ADHD medications that are immediately active, Vyvanse works through a unique mechanism. When taken orally, lisdexamfetamine passes through the gastrointestinal system and enters the bloodstream. Red blood cells contain the enzyme necessary to convert lisdexamfetamine to dextroamphetamine, which then produces the medication's therapeutic effects. This conversion process generally takes 1-2 hours, creating a slower onset of action compared to immediate-release amphetamines.

Clinical Uses

Vyvanse is FDA-approved for two primary conditions: ADHD in children and adults, and moderate to severe binge eating disorder. The medication helps increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, improving focus, attention, and impulse control in ADHD patients. For binge eating disorder, it reduces the frequency of binge eating episodes.

Dosage Forms

Vyvanse comes exclusively in capsule form with doses ranging from 10mg to 70mg. Each capsule contains the specified amount of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate along with the inactive ingredients. The capsules are typically taken once daily in the morning.

Related Questions

Is Vyvanse a controlled substance?

Yes, Vyvanse is a Schedule II controlled substance because it contains amphetamine. It carries a high potential for abuse and dependence, requiring a prescription and careful monitoring.

How long does Vyvanse take to work?

Vyvanse typically begins working within 1-2 hours of taking it, as the body needs time to convert lisdexamfetamine to its active form. Peak effects occur around 3-4 hours after ingestion.

What are common side effects of Vyvanse?

Common side effects include decreased appetite, insomnia, increased heart rate, and dry mouth. More serious side effects can include chest pain and psychiatric symptoms, requiring medical attention.

More What Is in Daily Life

Also in Daily Life

More "What Is" Questions

What is ewr passportWhat is cursor aiWhat is aidsWhat is vyvgart hytrulo used forWhat Is ELI5 : At the cellular level, what is different about animals that can regrow body parts and ones that can'tWhat is kv in marketingWhat is tms therapyWhat is catfishingWhat is ck in blood testWhat is jr thunderbirdWhat Is Emotional IntelligenceWhat is msg in cookingWhat is today's wordle answerWhat is jfrog artifactoryWhat is pqwl in train

Trending on WhatAnswer

How Does GPS Workdifference between ai and mlHow To Start a BusinessDifference Between HTTP and HTTPSHow Does the Stock Market WorkHow To Learn ProgrammingDifference Between LLC and CorporationDifference Between Virus and BacteriaCan you increase your iqIs it safe to invest in bonds

Browse by Topic

ArtsBusinessDaily LifeEducationFoodGeographyHealthHistoryLanguageLawMathematicsNaturePoliticsPsychologyScienceSpaceSportsTechnology

Browse by Question Type

Can YouDifference BetweenDoesHow DoesHow ToIs ItWhat CausesWhat DoesWhat IsWhen WasWhere IsWho IsWhy DoWhy Is

Sources

  1. FDA - Drug Information Public Domain
  2. Wikipedia - Lisdexamfetamine CC-BY-SA-4.0
  3. MedlinePlus - Medicine Information Public Domain