Vyvanse addiction can cause someone to be restless, paranoid, and secretive. It also raises their risk of experiencing heart problems and overdose. Fortunately, addiction to Vyvanse can be treated through a variety of evidence-based and holistic methods.
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a prescription amphetamine that stimulates the central nervous system. It affects brain chemicals that influence impulse control and hyperactivity. It is commonly prescribed for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and may also be prescribed for binge eating disorder.
The Vyvanse label warns that this medication may be habit-forming. It poses the risk of addiction even when taken as prescribed. In many cases, people who use Vyvanse do not have a prescription but get it from a friend, online or on the street. Call 850-374-5331 to learn more about our substance abuse treatment programs.
Vyvanse Addiction Signs And Symptoms
Individuals who use Vyvanse may experience physical and psychological symptoms of use. They may also show signs of addiction, such as loss of control over drug use, financial troubles and strained relationships.
Other signs of Vyvanse addiction may be:
- Taking the drug in high amounts or taking it often
- Tolerance to the effects of Vyvanse
- Needing Vyvanse to accomplish tasks or projects
- Seeking multiple prescriptions of the drug from different doctors
- Obtaining large quantities of Vyvanse illicitly
- Unlabeled pill bottles or Ziploc bags
Since many people struggling with addiction try to hide the extent of their drug use, it may be easier for a loved one to recognize symptoms of Vyvanse use, such as:
- High energy
- Reduced appetite
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Shaking
- Sweating
- Flushed skin
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Hostility
Some people who use Vyvanse in large amounts may experience suicidal or homicidal thoughts as well as psychosis, anxiety and paranoia.
Short-Term Effects Of Vyvanse
People generally use Vyvanse because it helps them focus on big tasks and projects at school or work. The drug can help them concentrate, give them energy and make them feel like they are more in control of their life.
However, they may also be experiencing some adverse effects that go unnoticed until they are critical. These might include heart palpitations, heartbeat irregularities and chronic high blood pressure. They can lead to increased risk of stroke and heart attack.
Long-Term Effects Of Vyvanse
Over time, Vyvanse use may lead to or worsen psychosis. Psychosis is an altered state of mind in which an individual has trouble telling reality and imagination apart. They may experience increased paranoia and aggression as a result.
Stimulants like Vyvanse are also very hard on the heart with prolonged use. They can cause poor circulation, numbness in the hands and feet, nerve pain and severe heart problems.
Besides the physical effects, Vyvanse is an addictive drug that triggers changes in brain structure.
Can You Overdose On Vyvanse?
- Fever
- Tremors
- Hallucinations
- Aggression
- Rapid breathing
- Panic
- Seizures
- Coma
- Heart failure
- Death
Vyvanse Withdrawal Symptoms
People who use Vyvanse are probably aware of the “Vyvanse crash” that occurs a few hours after taking the drug. This is often marked by fatigue as well as a host of adverse effects.
As Vyvanse leaves the body, the brain is left unbalanced and takes a while to recover. A person may feel shaky, irritable and unable to sleep.
When someone is addicted to Vyvanse, and they try to stop taking it, it is even more of a jolt to the brain and takes longer for the brain to adjust to its normal functioning. An addicted individual is likely to experience similar symptoms to the crash but more intense.
Vyvanse withdrawal symptoms may be:
- Severe cravings
- Increased appetite for food
- Strange dreams
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
In some cases, withdrawal may involve seriously altered mood states that may lead to self-harm.
Do You Need a Vyvanse Addiction Treatment Program in Ohio?
Individuals suffering from Vyvanse addiction can find healing through our holistic inpatient rehab program at The Bluffs Ohio. We balance proven treatment methods with experiential therapies, encouraging individuals to connect with nature through adventure therapy and practice self-expression through art and music.
One of our foundational treatment methods is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier ones. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) goes hand-in-hand with CBT to help people deal with painful emotions as well as learn acceptance and coping skills.
Other evidence-based practices at The Bluffs Ohio include eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and dual diagnosis treatment. Dealing with underlying issues such as trauma and co-occurring disorders is crucial to preventing relapse and supporting lifelong recovery.
