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Lisdexamfetamine for Weight Loss

Supportive Care

Brand names:

Vyvanse®

Other names:

Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, lisdexamphetamine

Often used for:

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), binge eating disorder

This information is specific to the use of lisdexamfetamine for weight loss. For additional information on lisdexamfetamine, please talk to your health care provider.

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What is lisdexamfetamine?

Lisdexamfetamine is a medicine used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder. It works by acting on the brain to help improve focus, attention, and impulse control. 

Lisdexamfetamine decreases appetite and helps people lose weight by reducing the amount of food eaten throughout the day. It works best when combined with a low-calorie diet.

This medicine has a high risk for misuse and may become habit-forming if used for a long time. Your care team will monitor you closely during the treatment. 

Brain

May be given as a capsule by mouth

 
Brain

May be given as a chewable tablet by mouth

 
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Possible side effects

  • Dry mouth
  • Stomach pain
  • Weight loss
  • Nausea or vomiting 
  • Constipation or diarrhea 
  • Dizziness
  • Mood changes
  • Trouble sleeping 
  • Skin rash
  • Numbness or cold feeling of the feet or hands
  • Tremor (shaking of the body)
  • Changes in vision 
  • Changes to growth and development
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Increased heart rate
  • Decreased sex drive 

Call your care team right away if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction. These may include: rash, hives, itching, runny nose, fever, chills, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck, dizziness, low blood pressure, or pain in the chest, side, or back. 

Not all patients who take lisdexamfetamine will have these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Report any symptoms or side effects to your health care provider or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your health care provider or pharmacist. 

  • Lisdexamfetamine works best when used along with a nutrition and exercise program.
  • This medicine may affect growth. You should have regular physical exams and growth checks.
  • Watch for changes in your mood or mental health, such as worsening depression, anxiety, agitation, irritability, panic attacks, and trouble sleeping.
  • Seek medical help right away if you have any suicidal thoughts or actions or signs of self-harm.
  • Stopping this medicine too fast can result in unwanted side effects. Your care team will monitor and plan if the medicine must be stopped.     
  • This medicine may make you dizzy. Do not do anything that could be dangerous until you see how this medicine affects you.
  • Make sure you drink plenty of liquids.
  • Some medicines can interact with lisdexamfetamine. Tell your health care provider and pharmacist about all medicines you take. 
  • Tell your care team if you are sexually active, pregnant, or breastfeeding. 

Lisdexamfetamine at home:

  • Avoid taking this medicine late in the day to help prevent sleep problems.  
  • Chewable Tablets: Take as directed. Chew completely before swallowing.
  • Capsules: Swallow capsules whole. Do not crush or chew before swallowing. The capsule may be opened, and the powder may be dissolved in a glass of water or orange juice. Stir, and drink the entire liquid mix immediately.
  • In case of a missed dose, give the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not give 2 doses at the same time. 
  • Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.

Learn more about lisdexamfetamine

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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Reviewed: January 2026