Lisdexamfetamine
What is Lisdexamfetamine?
Lisdexamfetamine is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder (2) (6). Available in various forms, such as oral capsules and tablets, it offers patients flexible administration options (2) (5). Acting as a prodrug, Lisdexamfetamine undergoes conversion in the body to dextroamphetamine, a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant (6). The drug's mechanism of action involves enhancing the concentrations of particular neurotransmitters in the brain, notably dopamine and norepinephrine. This elevation can lead to improved attention and reductions in hyperactivity and impulsivity (2) (3) (4) (5) (6).
Uses of Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is recognized for its potential therapeutic applications, including:
- Addressing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in both adult and pediatric populations aged 6 and above (2) (3) (4) (5) (6).
- Management of moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED) (3) (4).
Dosage
Lisdexamfetamine's recommended dosage is contingent on the specific condition it's treating and individual weight considerations (2) (3) (4) (5) (6). Typically, the daily dose for ADHD ranges from 20mg to 70mg (2) (3) (4) (5) (6). In contrast, for binge eating disorder, doses usually fall between 30mg and 70mg daily (3) (4). Treatment duration is predominantly long-term and often relies on the nature of the disorder being addressed (2) (3) (4) (5) (6).
Side Effects
Potential side effects can occur with Lisdexamfetamine usage. Commonly reported effects include appetite suppression, weight loss, abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, sleep disturbances, and irritability among others (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6). Most of these side effects are manageable, and notably, the occurrence rate of these side effects substantially decreases after the inaugural year of therapy (5).
Interactions
Potential drug interactions can emerge with Lisdexamfetamine. Consequently, seeking professional advice is paramount before combining this medication with other drugs or dietary supplements (2) (3) (4) (5) (6).
Summary:
Lisdexamfetamine is a versatile medication used in the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder. Available as oral capsules and tablets, it functions as a prodrug that transforms into dextroamphetamine within the body. By enhancing neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, it boosts attention and mitigates hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Its dosage is tailored to the treated condition and the patient's weight. While Lisdexamfetamine might cause side effects, their prevalence generally reduces after the first treatment year. There's potential for drug interactions, so professional consultation is essential when considering its use alongside other medications or supplements.
Citations:
(1) https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a607047.html
(2) https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-147664/lisdexamfetamine-oral/details
(3) https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lisdexamfetamine-dimesylate-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20070888?p=1
(4) https://www.vyvanse.com
(5) https://www.drugs.com/mtm/lisdexamfetamine.html
(6) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lisdexamfetamine