What is vyvanse made of

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:

• Microcrystalline cellulose (provides bulk)
• Croscarmellose sodium (aids dissolution)
• Magnesium stearate (lubricant)
• FD&C Blue No. 2 and other colorants (for capsule appearance)
• Gelatin (capsule material)

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.