Stimulant — amphetamine prodrug
Vyvanse
Lisdexamfetamine
DEA Schedule II FDA approved adults
Pediatric ages 6+
How it works
Inactive prodrug. Lysine is enzymatically cleaved in red blood cells to release d-amphetamine. The conversion paces release and reduces variability.
At-a-glance
- Onset of effect
- 1–2 h
- Typical duration of effect
- 10–14 h
- Half-life
- ~10–13 (d-amphetamine after conversion); lisdexamfetamine itself ~1 hour
- Formulations
- Oral capsule, Chewable tablet
- Adult dose range
- 30–70 mg once daily (start 30 mg, titrate)
FDA max: 70 mg/day - Pediatric dose range
- 20–70 mg once daily (ages 6+)
Common side effects
- Decreased appetite
- Insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Anxiety
- Headache
- Weight loss
Important warnings
- Schedule II — abuse potential lower than direct amphetamines but still significant
- Cardiovascular risk
Notes
Also FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe binge eating disorder in adults. Smoother onset than Adderall XR; some patients prefer the steadier curve.
Source
Reference data is sourced from the current FDA prescribing information at DailyMed. Dose ranges, approved ages, and warnings change over time — always check the current label and consult your prescriber.