Vyvanse

by Tony di Varmo

My name is Tony di Varmo and I have been taking Vyvanse for ADHD for about 3 months now. It makes me feel great and concentrate but one of the side effects is a pounding heart which concerns me. It also affects my blood pressure and makes it rise significantly which is not good.

I wish I could take a natural substance instead of an amphetamine. I tried Adderall but the side effects were enormous including pounding heart, intense anxiety, cold sweats, and nausea. I am sick of prescription drugs. I am still trying to find natural substances that will do the same thing without the side effects.

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Vyvanse

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Aug 29, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Vyvanse for 2 years until...
by: Brian

I had been prescribed Vyvanse (50mg) about 2 years ago because I had an incredibly hard time remaining focused. Overall, I was very satisfied with the results. I happened to be in a meeting one day and one of the people in attendance, I found out later, was vegetarian. Long story short, after a lengthy conversation, I decided to try my hand at a juice fast followed by a term of eating fruits and veggies. About 30 days later I had no need for the Vyvanse. There is something to be said for removing most processed food, sugars and dairy from your diet. I have never felt better...
Jul 20, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Hi, Tony...
by: Anonymous

Have you tried reducing your dosage? Talk to your doctor about your sypmtom's and I'm sure you'll get some attention on this.

Also, I now only take my Vyvanse (30mg) every other day. I'm trying to ween myself from it altogether, but I still find it helpful. The every other day scenario is to help me measure it's effectiveness and help me get the habits in place that will hopefully allow me to get off it completely. I can only miss one day at a time for now as I have trouble sleeping when I take a pill after missing two days. Consider something like this as an option...
Jul 20, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Re: worried
by: Anonymous

Hi, Gina. The obvious first questions is 'was she this way before she started taking Vyvanse?', followed closely by 'what's her dosage?', 'why is she taking it?, and 'what else is she taking?' Typically for these kinds of meds, there's a period of time where assessments and adjustments are made. Sounds like she needs to go back to her doctor, discuss the effects and try something else...
Jul 20, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		worried
by: gina

my bestfriend who is 42 has been on vyvanse for about a year now, IM very concerned for her she does not act like her normal self at all she is always thinking someone is against her and everyone is at fault except her when in reality it is her fault! Her husbands whole family is no longer speaking to her due to the bad attitude she is having marriage problems which none of this happen until about a month and a half of being on this medicain!!She stays up til 3 or 4am everyday sleeps til noon. She is a smoker but a very heavy smoker now she went from a half a pack a day to close to two packs a day now! she sits by herself alot and when she gets on a subject that has her upset there is no getting her off of it she dwells on it for weeks and is liable to tell you about it over and over for hours.I have tryed to talk to her about this but she wont hear of it being the medication! I JUST WANT MY FRIEND BACK!!my daughter is on vyvanse and does NOT act this away could it be because she needs it and my friend doesnot?
Mar 13, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Update us
by: TJ Chambers

Edie, I hope in a few months you will come back and update us on how the drug is doing. Usually, drugs help at first but over time things get worse.

Mar 13, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Vyvance
by: Edie

My 6 year old daughter started Vyvanse about 6 weeks ago. She is on 20 mg. All I can say is THANK GOD!!! She was on Concerta for about 5 months and results were alright but it raised her heartbeat way too much. Since we started Vyvanse her behavior had been wonderful. We were really having issues with her behavior at school, but now she is doing great. The only issue I have is that it seems to wear off in the evening.
Jan 29, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Vyvanse user, too
by: Anonymous

I take Vyvanse, too. However, my dose is 140mg with a 20mg boost if needed. The only side effects I've experienced are the dry mouth, loss of appetite & trouble swallowing - feels like I have a lump in my throat. I can see the differences it makes in my life, though I also can see where it plateaus. I've stopped taking it at certain times, which I would not recommend anyone should do. Those side effects are even worse, but I don't like the idea of being medicated for the rest of my life.
Jan 20, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Medical Cannabis
by: Anonymous

Marijuana has been medically prescribed for ADHD. So if you are looking for a natural way to treat your ADHD see if cannabis can help you. If you are worried about damage to your lungs from smoking there are plenty of marijuana brownies,cookies, and other ways to get THC in your system. I would say marijuana has helped me tremendously since I've started.

http://www.showmethefacts.org/medical-marijuana-facts/add-adhd/
Dec 30, 2010
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starstarstar 		Another Perspective
by: David

Great discussion Heres my $.02. Im a 55 year old male who's been affected by ADHD my entire life. I was finally diagnosed with the condition, as well as depression, about ten years ago.

I took various anti-depressants including Paxil and Effexor, before realizing that I had more control of my emotions without them and stopped. I was still struggling with the inability to focus/pay attention/concentrate. After reading up on ADHD, I changed my life by (mostly) keeping lists/calendars/alarms to track tasks; ambient noise (thunderstorms, ocean waves, white noice, and music) through a headset to reduce distractions including White Noise Generator. I also looked for the miracle drug - the one that would shut up my brain and let me be normal. I took Ritalin and Adderall and those seemed to help for short periods of time but werent the answer I was looking for.

That brings us to Vyvanse. My doctor recommended it to me in early 2010 and although I now understand that there is no miracle drug, Vyvanse has been fantastic asset to my life. Ive always been at the 30mg ER - enough to make a big difference in my concentration, ability to do/complete smart and large tasks, and create a valuable level of confidence, but not enough to (noticeably) produce serious side effects. I took todays dose a couple of hours ago and even on my second cup of coffee, my heart rate is 61.

As a side but important note, as an adult, ADHD meds are difficult to get. Experts in brain issues are only now learning about chemical imbalances and such and new treatments are still unproven over time and slow to implement. Many insurance plans refuse to admit that an adult can even have ADHD and wont cover the meds so even with a prescription, they can be very expensive over time. And of course theyre all classified as controlled substances by the U.S. govt so there's annoying overhead involved with triplicates and such.

Though Ive been satisfied with the 30mg amount, Ive tried 40mg just to see if it offered any additional productivity/success in my life and though I could feel that I was a bit more up, it didnt (couldnt?) make an improvement to where I was on the 30mg so Im still there.

While others have pointed out the downside of taking meds, they certainly can be a valuable part of ADHD treatment. But they're are just a contributor to the solution, not THE answer. We should always take the smallest doses possible. More importantly, we need to acknowledge our condition and make lifestyle changes as necessary. I found the book 'You Mean I'm Not Lazy, Stupid, or Crazy?!' by Kelly, Ramundo, Hallowell a great tool for helping me understand my condition, put it into perspective, and work around it.

Ultimately, we're all created a bit different and are responsible for our lives. I think it's important and responsible to look into all options until we get where we want to be.
Oct 09, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Talk with your doctor
by: TJ Chambers

You will have to talk to your doctor about it. Increased heart rate is not good but a common side effect.

Stimulant medication is speed. Look up speed & see what the side effects of taking that are. You will see the same side effects.
Oct 09, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Too high?
by: Allie

I've been on Vyvanse for about 3 years now. (I switched from concerta - I do not recommend concerta.) I have many symptoms from the medication. I have the increased heart rate and nearly everytime I take the medication my heart rate will increase to the 130s-140s. I've never really been too concerned because I'd be busy with school and having fun with friends, but I'm in college now and I spend more time in my apt doing work so I notice the hard beating more. Today it's about 144. Should I be worried?

Oct 10, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		70mg to high for me
by: kathy

I do realy well on this but i have heart racing and i am neverouse i think i need a lower dose but i do so well otherwise
Sep 28, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		vyvanse
by: Anonymous

My son started on this medication. It worked for him for a while however we just had to change his medications about a month ago. He is now on Flolan xr 5mg twice a day and is doing great. The only side affect we had from the vyvanse was he lost weight but he has since gained his weigh back and is eating good.
Sep 25, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		vyvanse is not for children
by: Anonymous

I have been taking Vyvanse 50mg for almost a year now. I sometimes reduce and sometimes increase my dosage as needed. I would absolutely NEVER give this drug to a child. I think that it is shameful of the medical industry/drug peddlers to offer this drug as a treatment. It's too strong and the side-effects are too harsh. the long-term effects are unknown. Let the kid decide when s/he is older if s/he wants to take drugs.

So, what can you do? Often times, a parent must modify his/her behavior in order to modify the child's behavior. Work on cognitive and behavior modification with a professional and find a school that will inspire and truly interest your child. Good luck everyone. Be careful with this stuff and stay aware of how you feel.
May 06, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		strattera
by: Jason

so is strattera not a good option ? I have been doing alot of research on diffrent meds and I agree with you... im not much on the dealing with the side effects, especially the pounding heart and I was considering trying native remidies focusaddult.
Mar 10, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Vyvanse
by: Anonymous

Good Evening TJ
It is true that no one knows the long term affect of any medications. I have done alot of research and have been through alot with my now 23 year old step son. He was said to be ADHD when he was 5 years old however I kept telling his doctors He is more then ADHD but at the time there was not alot of information on the different disorders. He was even put in Metal hospital for brief times due to hurting others and hisself. Now as an Adult he has been diagnosed with bi-polar sketco effective disorder. Sorry if I mis spelled. I am glad to see there are more and more resourses today and have support groups to. Its really frustrating when you know there is something wrong with your child and no one can explain it to you. I know I have learned people are quick to judge when they do decide to use or try medications. I feel dont't judge because you don't know there situation entirely an it may be that medication works for some and some may not need medication at all. I have seen alot of kids that really need medication and I have seen some that truly dont need to be on medications. I know for some its a quick fix sort of speak or parents just don't want to deal with their children so they just put them on medication and they are like zombies which I disagree with.
Mar 10, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Long Term Affects
by: TJ Chambers

Just remember, people don't know what the long term effects of medications are.

Read the labels and you will see that your child's future will be full of health problems on medication.

Its destructive.
Mar 10, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Vyvanse
by: Jenifer W

I have a seven year old son who started the Vyvanse. We saw a change immediately. He started out on 20 mg it worked good but wore off by noon so we went up to 40 mg and o my god he was like he was on speed it was too much for him so we changed to 30mg and it seems to be working just right. What works for one person does not always work for another. My son is more hyperactive then ADD. As a parent you may have to try different medications and find what works for your child and not someones esles child. Also as they grow you may have to increase medication and even change medication. I have found that keeping a log for my son has helped me out alot and communicate with your childs teachers also helps to let you know how they are doing in school. Remember no one knows your child better then you if you notice a change in behavior etc make sure you talk to your doctor about it. Some medications will make them more aggressive. So far so good for us.
Jan 22, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		Vyvanse is a Stimulant
by: TJ Chambers

Vyvanse is a stimulant medication. If you read the side effects for the illegal drug "speed", then the same effects apply.

Here is the url for the medication guide http://www.vyvanse.com/pdf/medication_guide.pdf

Yes, there can be heart problems, sudden death, stroke, increased blood pressure, heart rate, stomach pain, dizziness, irritability, and on and on.

Side effects are dangerous.
Jan 22, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		vyvanse is the cats pajamas
by: Anonymous

!!
Nov 17, 2008
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starstarstarstarstar 		Have 7 year old taking Vyvanse
by: Anonymous

One of my seven-year-old twins is on Vyvanse for his ADHD. He has been one it for approximately one month. So far, my biggest concern is that he is soooooooooooooo tired about two hours after taking it that he can barely stay awake. Previously, he was on the Daytrona Patch and before that Metadate. I am anxious to know if theree are any heart-related concerns for children on this medication. He is also on Clonidine to help with his oppositional behavior.
Oct 03, 2008
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starstarstarstarstar 		Arrythmia
by: Anonymous

I have been taking 40mgs of vyvanse for about a year now. Prior to the event I am about to describe, I was quite satisfied with the drug and had almost no side effects. In fact, I wish I didn't have a problem with it because it is FAR superior to adderall.
Now for the bad news. I am an incredibly healthy 21 yr old. I have no personal or family history of heart issues besides late-in-life heart attacks. Nevertheless, I had an arrythmia while driving a week back. I went to the hospital where the attending ER physician explained to me that this was not the first time he has seen such symptoms in patients taking vyvanse, and it was most likely the cause. Now, off vyvanse, I am free of palpitations/arrythmia, and doing well. The point of the story are the words he left me with, "If you're taking this medication, and you feel even one series of palpitations, you should discontinue it's use, and seek medical care." I am certainly glad I did...
Aug 27, 2008
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starstarstarstarstar 		Things don't get better when treating symptoms
by: TJ Chambers

When you treat symptoms with medication, you can't expect things to get better.

I was talking to my dentist on the phone today about his son. His son has ADHD and he is considering putting him on meds. I'm like a broken record. I keep saying the same thing and it is like he wants a different answer.

Is there help, yes? The question is, are you willing to do what needs to be done. The other question is, do you have the finances to do so.

I find that many people are not willing to do what needs to be done.
Aug 27, 2008
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starstarstarstarstar 		My 5yr old's first day of vyvanse
by: Anonymous

Is not going so great. HE WILL NOT SHUT UP LOL!! He talks excessively anyways but it is BAD today (his first day of using vyvanse). I noticed that he is not as aggresive or going from one thing to another, but he's very jittery and talking a hundred miles a minute. Almost like he's on speed. I do not like this at all. Does it get better the longer you take it? He is only on 20mg. He starts back to pre-k next week and i'm not sure if they can tolerate this either. I feel like I just cant win. Any advice would be much appreciated, as this is all so new.
Dec 19, 2007
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starstarstarstarstar 		ADHD
by: Anonymous



Hi--I sure understand side effects--what I was told about and then tried with great results is music therapy in the form of Hemi-sync--it works--I bought Remembrance and Illumations for peak performance both are CDs
Dec 12, 2007
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starstarstarstarstar 		How Long Have You Taken Vyvanse?
by: TJ Chambers

Michelle,

Thanks for your response. How long have you been taking Vyvanse? Have you taken any others?
Dec 12, 2007
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starstarstarstarstar 		Another Vyvanse user and love it
by: Michelle

I too, take Vyvanse (50mg), but unlike you, do not suffer from any of those side effects. I can tell you what my ADHD doctor said- "too strong of a prescription will cause heart palpitations". If you take the 50 mg, maybe you should talk to your doctor about lowering the dose. I am a newly diagnosed ADHD adult (33 years old), and am amazed at the difference in my daily routines. The only bad thing I have to say is the pill wearing off in the evening. I wish it were extended release.
Dec 02, 2007
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starstarstarstarstar 		There are natural things to do
by: TJ Chambers

Tony,

Thank you for your comment. I just want you to know that there are natural things you can do. Once you understand what is going on with your body, then you know how to help it. There is not a magic pill to make things go away.

You do have to change your diet. There are some vitamins that you will want to take and omega 3.

If you visit this page, you will see some of the things that I am talking about.

Alternative Treatments

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