Recognizing The Signs Your Vyvanse Dose Is Too High

Some of the issues that can occur include the following:[1-3] 

• Physical symptoms like rapid heart rate and high blood pressure
• Psychological symptoms like heightened anxiety, hallucinations, or paranoia
• Behavioral symptoms, such as obsessive or compulsive behaviors

If you are prescribed Vyvanse and feel that your dose is too high, contact your doctor immediately. If you are worried that your symptoms indicate a medical emergency, call 911 or get to the emergency room. 

Understanding Vyvanse Dosages & Formulations

Vyvanse comes in different formulations and doses.

Formulation Options

Vyvanse comes in capsules and chewable tablets in a range of doses.[4]

Vyvanse Capsules

Vyvanse Chewable Tablets

ADHD Treatment with Vyvanse

When prescribed for the treatment of ADHD in both adults and children between the ages of 6 and 12, treatment usually begins with 30 mg each morning.[5] If more is needed, the dose may be increased by 10 or 20 mg each week, up to a maximum dose of 70 mg per day. Depending on the symptoms experienced, the dose may be anywhere from 30 mg to 70 mg per day. 

Binge Eating Disorder Treatment With Vyvanse

When prescribed for the treatment of binge eating disorder (BED) in adults, dosing usually starts at 30 mg every morning but can be increased by 20 mg per week if needed, with a maximum dose of 70 mg per day.[2] For BED, final dosing of 50 mg to 70 mg per day is recommended.[5]

Considerations 

For some people, Vyvanse will not be a good solution no matter what symptoms are experienced.

For example, no one under the age of 6 should take the medication, as no research has been done on its efficacy and safety. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take Vyvanse or any stimulant medication, as it can be transmitted to the child through the bloodstream in utero or through breast milk.[2]

For those living with end-stage renal disease, the daily dose should not exceed 30 mg per day. Those with renal impairment should not exceed 50 mg per day.[2]

Additionally, those who are living with co-occurring conditions, such as cardiac disease, hypertension, or mental health issues defined by psychotic reactions, and those in recovery from addiction should avoid taking Vyvanse. 

Tips for Use

• Vyvanse should be taken in the morning, and second doses should be taken no later than early afternoon in order to avoid issues with insomnia.
• Both chewable tablets and capsules can be taken with or without food.[5]
• Capsule doses should not be divided but swallowed whole or opened and the contents dissolved in water, creating a solution that is drinkable for those who do not like swallowing pills or chewing tablets.
• If the capsule solution option is chosen, it should be ingested immediately and not stored.
• The drug should not be taken within 14 days of taking MAO inhibitors.[2]

What Are the Signs Your Vyvanse Dose Is Too High?

Signs that a Vyvanse dose is too high may vary based on the amount taken, the method of ingestion, and whether or not other medications are being taken or there are underlying medical or mental health symptoms. 

In general, however, some signs that may indicate that your Vyvanse dose is too high may include the following:[6]

• Physical symptoms like dry mouth, rapid breathing, and dilated pupils
• Cardiac events, such as rapid heart rate, chest pain, high blood pressure, and heart palpitations
• Shifting mental states that may include agitation, confusion, and paranoia 

Physical Signs

A number of physical effects can indicate that the amount of Vyvanse in the body is overwhelming the system. These may be mild, moderate, or severe. They could include things like a high body temperature, rapid breathing, dry mouth, dilated pupils, and an increased level of alertness or energy. 

In more serious cases, toxic levels of Vyvanse may cause skin flushing. If the drug is injected, there may be abscesses or infection at the injection site.

Cardiovascular Issues 

Vyvanse is a stimulant drug, and as such, it can increase heart rate and raise blood pressure. If this is severe enough, palpitations or arrhythmia can result along with chest pain. In the most severe cases, high doses of Vyvanse can lead to a hypertensive emergency, stroke, or sudden death. 

Shifting Mental States 

An altered mental state can be indicative of taking too much Vyvanse. While high energy may be a sign of the problem, this can turn into agitation, hyperactivity, confusion, and even extreme psychosis characterized by paranoia. 

What to Do if Your Dose Is Too High

If your dose of Vyvanse is too high for you to feel comfortable or if you suffer from undue side effects, take these steps: 

• Make sure you are not using other substances that may alter its effect, such as marijuana, opioids, or alcohol.
• Double check with the pharmacist to find out if other medications you are taking may be impacting the effect of Vyvanse.
• Talk to your doctor about what you are experiencing when you take the prescribed dose of Vyvanse. Make sure to disclose all underlying health conditions, including mental health issues, and all other medications and supplements you are taking. 

If there is no discernible cause for your uncomfortable experience with Vyvanse and your dose is indeed too high, your doctor will likely lower your dose or suggest trying a new medication.