Vyvanse Abuse and Addiction Treatment Options
Vyvanse is a common drug primarily prescribed to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Vyvanse increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve focus and concentration. Vyvanse is a Schedule II Controlled Substance in the United States, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and addiction.
What Is Vyvanse?
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) is a prescription drug used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It’s a central nervous system stimulant that affects chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. While there are mechanisms built within Vyvanse to limit the euphoria effect that often leads to addiction, Vyvanse substance abuse is still common.
Due to the drug’s ability to improve focus and concentration, Vyvanse is commonly known as a “study drug,” leading to increased abuse for high school and university students.
According to studies, 5-10% of high school students have misused or abused prescription stimulants, which is likely because they believe the drugs will help them academically. However, many students and other users don’t realize that while Vyvanse may initially improve focus and productivity, it can also lead to dependence and addiction.
Why Do People Abuse Vyvanse?
People with ADHD take Vyvanse to help them focus and concentrate on tasks. The medication is also commonly used off-label for narcolepsy, a sleep disorder, and has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat binge eating disorders.
Vyvanse abuse often occurs in people seeking the euphoric effects of the drug. At high doses, Vyvanse can cause feelings of happiness and joy.
Here are some common reasons people may abuse Vyvanse:
- Studying for exams
- Working long hours
- Weight loss
- Sense of euphoria
- Counteracting the side effects of other drugs
- Staying up late
Vyvanse addiction can develop quickly, even when the drug is taken as prescribed. This is because Vyvanse alters the brain chemistry and creates changes in the brain that lead to compulsive drug-seeking behavior.
How Does Vyvanse Affect the Body?
Vyvanse is a powerful drug that affects multiple systems within the body. Here are some ways that Vyvanse can alter the body and create side effects of Vyvanse.
1. Central Nervous System
Vyvanse reestablishes the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your central nervous system (CNS), which includes your brain, by changing the chemical balance. Norepinephrine is a stimulant, while dopamine causes natural sensations of happiness and reward. Vyvanse also suppresses appetite by acting on the hypothalamus in the brain, which regulates hunger.
CNS side effects of Vyvanse may include:
- Anxiety
- Agitation
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Nervousness
2. Circulatory and Respiratory Systems
Vyvanse impacts the circulatory system by increasing heart rate and blood pressure, and it also constricts blood vessels, which may lead to increased blood pressure. Vyvanse may also cause irregular heartbeat and palpitations.
Cardiovascular side effects may include:
- High blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Irregular heartbeat
- Palpitations
3. Vyvanse and the Digestive System
Since Vyvanse is a central nervous system stimulant, it can cause issues with the digestive system. Vyvanse causes these issues because it increases movement in the intestines and speeds up digestion.
Digestive side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
Does Vyvanse Have Any Health Benefits?
Vyvanse is designed to improve focus and concentration in people with ADHD. It can also be used to treat narcolepsy and help people with binge eating disorders control their food intake.
While Vyvanse has some health benefits, it’s essential to remember that the drug also has a high potential for abuse and addiction.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a Vyvanse addiction, please seek help from a medical professional or call Zinnia Health at (855) 430-9439.
Effects of Vyvanse Abuse
Vyvanse is unique among other drugs that treat ADHD, like Ritalin and Adderall, because Vyvanse’s chemical design means it is activated in the body differently than other stimulant drugs.
Vyvanse is called a prodrug. A prodrug is a medication that’s inactive when taken, but once in the body, metabolizes into its active form. In the case of Vyvanse, it takes about an hour for the drug to be converted into lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, which is a central nervous system stimulant.
The activation of Vyvanse in the body makes it more difficult to abuse, though it is still possible.
When people try to abuse Vyvanse by snorting or injecting it, the drug does not produce a desirable effect like other amphetamines because it isn’t metabolized into its active form.
However, people who take large doses of Vyvanse orally can experience the “high” or sense of euphoria they seek.
Long Term Effects
Vyvanse is a CNS stimulant, which can be easily misused and lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Even when prescribed by a medical professional and taken responsibly, the drug can create a degree of tolerance or dependence.
If tolerance is built toward a drug, users will need higher and higher doses to achieve the same desired effect. Dependence occurs when one’s system adapts to the presence of the drug and can only function normally when under its influence. If they suddenly stop taking it, withdrawal symptoms may set in.
Effects of Vyvanse abuse may include:
- Anxiety
- Agitation
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Nervousness
- High blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Irregular heartbeat
- Addiction
When Does Vyvanse Become a Problem?
When Vyvanse is taken in recommended doses, it can be a helpful tool for people who need help with focus and concentration. However, when Vyvanse is taken in more significant quantities than recommended or without a prescription, it can lead to serious consequences.
Because Vyvanse is a central nervous system stimulant, taking too much of the drug can cause an irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure, and even a heart attack.
If you find yourself craving Vyvanse or needing to take higher doses of the drug to get the desired effects, it’s essential to seek medical help as soon as possible. These are signs of addiction and can be very dangerous.
Zinnia Health offers a comprehensive approach to healing that can help you or a loved one recover from Vyvanse addiction. Our team of experts will create a personalized treatment plan that addresses addiction’s physical, mental, and emotional aspects. Contact us today to learn more about our program and how we can help you heal.
What Causes Vyvanse Abuse?
Several factors can cause Vyvanse abuse. Some people have been prescribed the drug for legitimate reasons, but end up abusing it because they like how it makes them feel. Others may start taking Vyvanse recreationally without a prescription.
There are many reasons why people might abuse Vyvanse, including:
- To improve focus and concentration
- To stay awake and alert
- To lose weight
- To enhance their study habits and grades
- To mix with drugs and alcohol
Some people may start taking the drug recreationally because it makes them feel good or gives them a sense of euphoria. Others may abuse Vyvanse because they’re trying to self-medicate for other issues, such as anxiety or depression.
Whatever the reason for misusing this substance, it’s essential to seek help.
Signs of Vyvanse Abuse
While it may be challenging to determine whether someone is abusing Vyvanse since the drug is often prescribed, here are some signs to look for.
Signs of Vyvanse abuse may include:
- Dilation of the pupils
- Sweating
- Flushed skin
- Reduced hunger
- Stomach discomfort
- Vomiting
- Somnolence (sleepiness)
- Hyperactivity
- Restlessness
- Sleeping difficulties
- Anxiety
- Hostility
Treatment for Vyvanse Abuse
While overcoming addiction can be challenging, Zinnia Health offers some of the best addiction treatments to help you or your loved one recover.
Our team of experts will create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your physical, mental, and emotional needs. Here is the typical process for someone seeking to overcome Vyvanse abuse or addiction.
Step 1. Admittance
The first step to recovery is the admittance stage. This is when the individual seeking treatment acknowledges they have a problem and want help. You or a loved one can call Zinnia Health and walk through some baseline questions, so our professionals can better understand how they can adequately assist you.
Every path to recovery is different, and our team acknowledges that and adjusts their approach to fit the needs of each individual.
Step 2: Financial Support
The second part of the recovery process is to help with any financial obligations that might be in place. Because we understand that not everyone has the same insurance or financial support, our team will work to find a way to get the treatment you need without breaking the bank.
We offer various payment options and work with insurance providers to ensure our services are covered.
Step 3: Detoxification
Once you’re ready to begin the detoxification process, our team will work with you to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible. This is essential because you may have withdrawal symptoms and cravings, and a safe, supportive environment can make this stage easier.
We also offer several medical detox methods and treatment options, and we can help you find the one that’s best for you.
There are two ways in which the detoxification process can occur, either in an inpatient or outpatient setting.
Inpatient detox
Inpatient detox is when the individual seeking treatment stays at our facility for the duration of their detox. This option is best for those with a more severe or long-term addiction or who might be at risk for relapse.
Outpatient detox
When an individual decides to detox at home, this is known as outpatient detox. The client will come in during the day, get treatment, and then head to a safe space outside the treatment center. This option is best for those with a milder addiction or a strong support system at home.
During the detoxification stage, Vyvanse withdrawal may occur. Some withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Muscle aches
- Insomnia
To provide support, we always have a trained healthcare professional on staff to help ease any discomfort you might experience or answer questions.
Step 4: Rehab
Once the detoxification process is complete, the next step is to begin recovery. Our team of experts will help you understand the root causes of your addiction and give you the tools you need to stay sober.
Here are some treatment options we provide:
Individual therapy
You’ll meet one-on-one with a therapist during individual therapy to discuss the issues causing your addiction. This is an essential step in recovery because it helps identify any underlying obstacles, negative thinking, or mental health disorders you might be struggling with.
Group therapy
Another common form of therapy is group therapy. Group therapy is led by a trained mental health and addictions professional and involves people who are also struggling with addiction. This is a great way to build a support system and share your experiences with others.
Family therapy
Family therapy is like group therapy but with your family members. Family could be parents and siblings, your own children and spouse, or simply your partner or anyone you consider family. The goals may include resolving conflict through healthy communication and emotional expression. This is important because the individual in recovery can get the support and understanding they need. In addition, family members can begin the healing process from the often painful or traumatic challenges of the individual’s addiction.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT is a therapy method designed to help reframe an individual’s habitual thinking and remove or reshape patterns that can lead to substance abuse disorder. This is an essential step in the recovery process because it helps to change negative thinking and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Some examples of CBT techniques are:
- Learning how to manage stress
- Developing healthy coping mechanisms
- Building a support system
- Creating a relapse prevention plan
Step 5: Aftercare
After you’ve completed the recovery program, the next step is to begin aftercare. At this point, you’ll continue to receive support from our team of experts as you transition back into your everyday life. Recovery is a forever thing, so at Zinnia Health, we make sure you’re supported well after your treatment is complete. Here are just a few examples of the aftercare we provide:
- Follow-up appointments
- Continued support groups
- Alumni program
- Aftercare planning
At Zinnia Health treatment center, we want to ensure you have everything you need to maintain sobriety. We understand that addiction is a lifelong battle, and we will be there with you every step of the way.
Seeking Treatment for Vyvanse Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, we want to help. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment programs and how we can help you on the road to recovery. Zinnia Health offers a variety of evidence-based treatment options for those struggling with addiction, and we provide individualized treatment plans designed to meet your unique needs.
If you or someone you love is struggling with Vyvanse addiction, please contact us at (855) 430-9439 or email us through our website.
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