Starting Vyvanse

Information and tips for your child to get started taking Vyvanse.

Vyvanse is a once-daily capsule that should be taken in the morning with or without food as prescribed by your child's doctor.

You may find it useful to establish a routine for when, where, and how your child takes Vyvanse.

If your child has trouble swallowing pills, capsules may be opened and the entire contents dissolved in a glass of water and taken immediately. The mixture should not be stored for later use.

Vyvanse is available in 20-mg, 30-mg, 40-mg, 50-mg, 60-mg, and 70-mg strengths. This dosing flexibility can help the doctor find the dose that's right for your child.

Vyvanse may not be right for your child. Before starting Vyvanse, tell your child's doctor about all health conditions (or a family history of) including:

  • heart problems, heart defects, high blood pressure
  • mental problems including psychosis, mania, bipolar illness, or depression
  • tics or Tourette’s syndrome
  • liver or kidney problems
  • thyroid problems
  • seizures or have had an abnormal brain wave test (EEG)

It's common to expect some side effects when starting an ADHD medication. Talk to your doctor if your child has side effects that are bothersome or do not go away.

  • From time to time, your doctor may stop Vyvanse treatment for a while to check ADHD symptoms.
  • Your doctor may do regular checks of your child’s blood, heart, and blood pressure while taking Vyvanse. Children should have their height and weight checked often while taking Vyvanse. Vyvanse treatment may be stopped if a problem is found during these check-ups.
  • The most common side effects reported in studies of Vyvanse were upper belly pain, dry mouth, weight loss, irritability, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, trouble sleeping, and decreased appetite. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Next: ADHD in Children

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