What Is Vyvanse? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) is a prescription central nervous system stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder (BED) in adults. It is one of the most widely prescribed ADHD medications in the United States. Here's everything you need to know about Vyvanse in 2026.

What Is Vyvanse?

Vyvanse is a long-acting stimulant medication that belongs to the amphetamine drug class. Key facts:

Brand name: Vyvanse
Generic name: Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate
Drug class: Central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, amphetamine
Manufacturer (brand): Takeda Pharmaceuticals
Generic manufacturers: 11 FDA-approved generic manufacturers, including Teva and Alvogen
FDA approval: 2007 for ADHD; 2015 for binge eating disorder (BED)
Controlled substance: Schedule II (high potential for abuse and dependence)

Vyvanse is unique among stimulant medications because it is a prodrug—it is inactive until your body converts it to its active form, dextroamphetamine. This conversion happens gradually after you take it, which provides a smoother onset and longer duration of action. For a detailed explanation, see our guide on how Vyvanse works.

What Is Vyvanse Used For?

Vyvanse is FDA-approved for two conditions:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Approved for patients ages 6 and older. Vyvanse helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control. It is effective for all three ADHD subtypes: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined.
Binge Eating Disorder (BED): Approved for adults. Vyvanse is the first and only FDA-approved medication specifically for moderate to severe BED. It helps reduce the number of binge eating episodes per week.

Important: Vyvanse is not approved for weight loss. While decreased appetite is a common side effect, it should not be used as a weight loss medication.

How Is Vyvanse Taken?

Vyvanse is available as:

Capsules: 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg, 50mg, 60mg, and 70mg
Chewable tablets: 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg, 50mg, and 60mg

Dosing guidelines:

ADHD starting dose: Typically 30mg once daily in the morning.
ADHD dose range: 20mg to 70mg per day. Your doctor will adjust the dose based on your response and tolerability.
BED starting dose: 30mg once daily in the morning, titrated up to the therapeutic range of 50–70mg/day.
How to take it: Take Vyvanse first thing in the morning, with or without food. Capsules can be swallowed whole, or the contents can be mixed with water, yogurt, or orange juice. Do not take Vyvanse in the afternoon or evening—it lasts up to 14 hours and can cause insomnia if taken too late.

Who Should Not Take Vyvanse?

Vyvanse is not appropriate for everyone. Do not take Vyvanse if you:

Are taking or have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) within the past 14 days — this combination can cause dangerous blood pressure spikes.
Have a known hypersensitivity to amphetamine products or any ingredient in Vyvanse.

Use Vyvanse with caution if you have:

Heart disease, structural heart abnormalities, or serious heart rhythm problems
High blood pressure
A history of psychosis, bipolar disorder, or depression
A history of drug or alcohol abuse
Thyroid problems

For a complete list of drug interactions, see our Vyvanse drug interactions guide.

How Much Does Vyvanse Cost?

Vyvanse is one of the more expensive ADHD medications:

Brand Vyvanse: $400–$558/month without insurance
Generic lisdexamfetamine: $68–$440/month (as low as $68 with a GoodRx coupon)
Takeda savings card: Eligible commercially insured patients may pay as little as $30/month

For a complete guide to saving money on Vyvanse, see our coupons, discounts, and patient assistance guide.

Final Thoughts

Vyvanse is a well-established, effective medication for ADHD and binge eating disorder. Its prodrug mechanism provides a smooth, long-lasting effect that many patients prefer. In 2026, generic lisdexamfetamine offers a more affordable option, though supply may vary by location.

To learn more, explore our related guides:

Need help finding Vyvanse at a pharmacy near you? Medfinder can check real-time availability so you don't have to call around.

What is Vyvanse used for?

Vyvanse is FDA-approved for treating ADHD in patients ages 6 and older and binge eating disorder (BED) in adults. It is not approved for weight loss.

Is Vyvanse a controlled substance?

Yes. Vyvanse is a Schedule II controlled substance, which means it has a high potential for abuse and dependence. It requires a new prescription each month (no refills) and cannot be transferred between pharmacies in most states.

Is there a generic for Vyvanse?

Yes. Generic lisdexamfetamine dimesylate is available from 11 FDA-approved manufacturers. It is therapeutically equivalent to brand Vyvanse and typically costs significantly less—as low as $68/month with a discount card.

Do I need a prescription for Vyvanse?

Yes. Vyvanse requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider with a valid DEA registration. Psychiatrists, primary care physicians, pediatricians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants can all prescribe Vyvanse.

What Is Vyvanse? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Updated:

February 17, 2026

Author:

Peter Daggett