Drug Interactions with Vyvanse: Other Prescriptions, Alcohol, and More Considerations
Vyvanse, a medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and certain children aged 6 years and older, and binge eating disorder in adults, can interact with a variety of substances. Understanding these potential interactions is crucial for safe and effective use of the drug.
Firstly, it's essential to note that the safety of Vyvanse during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully established. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before starting treatment with Vyvanse.
Regarding drug interactions, certain medications can increase the risk of side effects from Vyvanse. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), triptans, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, buspirone, and acetazolamide. Taking Vyvanse with fentanyl, lithium, or tramadol can also increase the risk of side effects from Vyvanse. Similarly, taking Vyvanse with buspirone or acetazolamide may increase the risk of side effects from Vyvanse.
One of the most significant risks associated with combining Vyvanse with certain medications is the potential for dangerously elevated blood pressure (hypertensive crisis), a medical emergency. This risk is particularly high when Vyvanse is taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), selegiline (Emsam), phenelzine (Nardil), linezolid (Zyvox), and methylene blue (ProvayBlue). It's important to note that using Vyvanse during or shortly after MAOI use is strictly contraindicated, requiring at least a 14-day washout period after stopping the MAOI before starting Vyvanse to avoid potentially life-threatening hypertensive crises or serotonin syndrome.
Another potential interaction involves the use of tryptophan, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), St. John's wort, and vitamin C, which may increase the risk of side effects from Vyvanse. Additionally, combining Vyvanse with an SSRI or triptan can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome as a side effect.
It's also worth mentioning that Vyvanse and alcohol may conceal each other's effects, making it hard to track alcohol consumption and the effectiveness of Vyvanse. While there's no known interaction between Vyvanse and alcohol, it may be safest to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Vyvanse.
Before starting treatment with Vyvanse, it's important to inform your doctor and pharmacist about any supplements, herbs, and vitamins you take to prevent possible interactions. It's also crucial to discuss any medical conditions, such as heart problems, circulation problems, kidney problems, mental health conditions, pregnancy, breastfeeding, allergic reactions, and a history of substance abuse, as these may increase the risk of interactions with Vyvanse.
Patients should always inform their healthcare provider about any recent or current MAOI use before starting Vyvanse and should never combine these medications without close medical supervision.
In conclusion, while Vyvanse can be an effective treatment for ADHD and binge eating disorder, it's crucial to be aware of potential interactions with other medications, supplements, and substances to ensure safe and effective use of the drug. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalised advice regarding Vyvanse and its interactions.
[1] FDA Prescribing Information for Vyvanse. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2015/021928s034lbl.pdf [2] Drugs.com. (n.d.). Vyvanse Drug Interactions. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/vyvanse.html [3] Mayo Clinic. (2018). Vyvanse: Side Effects, Interactions, Uses, Dosage, and Warning. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/vyvanse/description/drg-20072816 [4] RxList. (n.d.). Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) Side Effects. Retrieved from https://www.rxlist.com/vyvanse-drug/side-effects-232197.htm [5] MedlinePlus. (2021). Serotonin Syndrome. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000763.htm
- Science has been attempting to predict the risk and severity of cancer, particularly in the lung, with the help of advanced health-and-wellness technologies.
- Migraine patients might consider exploring different therapies-and-treatments, given the potential for certain drugs to interact with Vyvanse, a medication used for treating ADHD.
- In the realm of mental health, it's essential to consider the impact of Vyvanse on overall nutrition, as some interactions with supplements, herbs, and vitamins may affect its efficacy.
- As HIV treatments continue to evolve, it's crucial to understand potential interactions between Vyvanse and antiretroviral medications to ensure safe and effective use of the drugs.
- Patients struggling with mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, should be careful when considering Vyvanse, as the safety and interactions of the medication in these contexts are not fully understood.
