Does CBD Interact With Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)?

Other Names for Lisdexamfetamine 

Lisdexamfetamine is sold under different names. All of them have the same base ingredient and have similar possible interactions. 

Other names for lisdexamfetamine include:

• Tyvense
• Elvanse

Similar Medications: CBD & Stimulants

Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) is a stimulant. CBD and stimulants all share similar risks for interaction and side effects.

Some of the medications that share similar risks when combined with CBD are:

• Amphetamine (Adderall, Adzenys ER, Mydayis)
• Dextroamphetamine Sulfate (Zenzedi, Dexedrine)
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
• Atomoxetine (Strattera)
• Modafinil (Provigil, Nuvigil)

Is It Safe to Take CBD & Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) Together?

Yes, CBD is unlikely to pose any danger when taken with Vyvanse (when used in responsible doses). 

However, CBD may negate some of the beneficial effects of the drug, causing it to be insufficient for managing the symptoms it was prescribed for. 

Because the conditions Vyvanse is used to treat aren’t life-threatening, there’s a low chance of this effect resulting in any serious consequences. 

The main indication for lisdexamfetamine is ADHD, and taking the two drugs together may make symptoms of ADHD worse due to decreased efficacy of lisdexamfetamine.

Always consult your prescribing physician first before you start these drugs, and never adjust the dose or stop taking Vyvanse on your own. 

Is CBD a Viable Alternative to Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)?

CBD is not considered a viable alternative to lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse). 

However, there are a few conditions where CBD may work for which lisdexamfetamine is indicated or even work as an adjunct to it. 

Researchers had initially believed that CBD could worsen the symptoms of ADHD, but studies have not found any evidence to support this. In fact, some research shows positive results using CBD for ADHD [1].

Depending on the severity of the problem, maybe CBD could be enough to help, but it’s always best to talk to your doctor before changing or adjusting medications.

CBD may also help patients who binge eat but, again, the research lacks anything conclusive [2].

One of the most significant differences between CBD and lisdexamfetamine is that the latter is more likely to result in dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, there is a chance that lisdexamfetamine can be misused and overdosed. 

Suggested Reading: Comprehensive List of CBD Research Studies

What Is Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)?

Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) is a derivative of the drug amphetamine and belongs to a class called central nervous system stimulant. 

Vyvanse is the brand name of the drug lisdexamfetamine. It is a prodrug of the psychostimulant d-amphetamine. 

It’s used mainly to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder. It’s a prescription medicine approved by the FDA that works by increasing the production and decreasing the metabolism of the neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. 

Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) Specs:

What Does Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) Do?

Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) can increase the attention span and decrease restlessness in children and adults with ADHD.

It’s also used for binge-eating disorders because of its appetite suppressant qualities. 

Lisdexamfetamine for ADHD

ADHD is a disorder of the brain where the person tends to lack the ability to concentrate, has difficulty controlling impulsive behaviors, and is overly active. 

The exact mechanism of ADHD is not completely understood. However, it is linked to genetics, exposure to environmental risks, and toxins during pregnancy, among other things.

People with ADHD may have a higher concentration of dopamine transporters in the brain. This means these transporters remove dopamine from the brain too fast, causing a decreased level of dopamine in the brain. There also tend to be low levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain in those with ADHD. 

Once consumed, lisdexamfetamine turns into dextroamphetamine and L-lysine. This drug has two optical isomers called trace-amine associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) and vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2). It can enter monoamine neurons and release monoamine neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine from their storage places in presynaptic neurons. 

These neurotransmitters help in alertness and increase and maintain concentration and motivation. It can also prevent the reuptake of these neurotransmitters from the synaptic cleft but does not bind to the sites of the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine. 

Lisdexamfetamine for Binge Eating

The exact action of lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) on binge eating disorders is unknown. In binge eating disorders, food may trigger the brain to make more dopamine, the hormone that makes us feel pleasure. 

It’s possible that lisdexamfetamine raises the dopamine levels in the brain and sustains it enough so that the person does not consume more food than necessary. However, this has not been proven yet. 

Lisdexamfetamine may have less abuse potential compared to other amphetamines but can still cause dependence. 

Side Effects of Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)

Symptoms vary from minor to severe. It’s good to know what can happen so you can inform your doctor if you experience any.

The following are common side effects of lisdexamfetamine:

• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Headache
• Stomach upset
• Seizure
• Rash
• Increased blood pressure
• Tremor
• Tics
• Vomiting
• Increased heart rate
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Mania
• Psychosis
• Hypersensitivity
• High possibility of substance abuse

If you’re using lisdexamfetamine and suspect you’re becoming dependant on it, speak to your doctor immediately. They can help you reduce the dose gradually to avoid withdrawal.

Lisdexamfetamine withdrawal symptoms include:

• Tremors
• Sweating
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression

If you want to stop taking lisdexamfetamine and shift to CBD, you should talk to your doctor first. They may recommend slowly tapering this drug to avoid or to reduce the withdrawal symptoms. 

Key Takeaways: Is It Safe to Take Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) With CBD?

CBD can decrease the effects of lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) and even slow down its metabolism from the body, causing more unintended side effects. 

This interaction is considered mild and low risk — but caution is still advised.  

If you experience any adverse effects after taking CBD with Vyvanse, seek medical attention immediately.

References 

1. Ayyash, H. F., Ogundele, M., Cartas, B. C., & Dahabra, M. (2020). G632 Effectiveness of Cannabidiol oil in the management of ADHD and its comorbidities: Review of the evidence. Archives of Disease in Childhood, 105(Suppl 1), A228-A228.
2. Heiskanen, V. (2021). Cannabidiol reduces binge eating behavior in mice.