ADHD Channel
Topics & Medications
Quicklinks
Related Channels
Vyvanse for ADHD
Vyvanse™ (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) is a product that is used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children age 6 to 12 years old, adolescents, and adults. The medication is a type of stimulant -- an amphetamine, specifically. Because it has the potential to be abused, there are special rules for prescribing it.
Even though Vyvanse is a stimulant, it has the effects opposite of what would be expected of a stimulant. It is not entirely clear how this medication works to treat ADHD, but it has been shown to affect various chemicals within the brain.
(Click Vyvanse Uses to read more about using this medication for ADHD. This article also talks about other important parts of an ADHD treatment plan besides medication.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD