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Drug Info

How long does Vyvanse take to work?

Typically, this medication kicks in within 90 minutes
T. Duncan
By | May 1, 2024 Medically reviewed by Peter Lourgos, MD, JD
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Key takeaways

  • Vyvanse typically begins to work within 1 to 2 hours, with peak effects around 3 to 4 hours.

  • Dosage, metabolic rate, dietary habits, and other medications can influence how Vyvanse works.

  • Vyvanse is not suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or those on specific medications.

In this article:

Vyvanse is primarily used to treat two conditions: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder. Both are common—8.1% of adults in the U.S. have or will be diagnosed with ADHD, and about 30 million Americans live with an eating disorder. This means a lot of people can benefit from this medication. The active ingredient in Vyvanse, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, transforms into dextroamphetamine in the body, which targets the central nervous system to enhance focus and decrease impulsivity in individuals with ADHD. For those with binge eating disorder, Vyvanse helps to moderate appetite, control compulsive eating behaviors, and rein in impulsivity. Because it works quickly, many people are able to tell within a short period of time whether the medication is helping relieve their symptoms.

Research shows that Vyvanse can start working within one and a half hours of ingestion. Its effects can last up to 14 hours, providing all-day symptom control for many individuals, says Clifford Feldman, MD, a psychiatrist in Los Angeles and Medical Director at Solace Treatment Center. However, factors like metabolism, diet, and other medications influence how quickly it works.

How long does it take for Vyvanse to work? 

Vyvanse typically begins working within 90 minutes of taking the medication, and its effects last up to 14 hours. However, many people feel the effects sooner. Luke Prest, MD, a pediatrician in Pennsylvania, says his patients report that Vyvanse starts working in 30 to 60 minutes. “Some individuals will notice the effect of Vyvanse the first time they take the medication, but the maximum benefit may take 2-3 weeks to be attained,” says Dr. Prest.

Vyvanse is designed to be a once-daily, long-acting medication. The extended-release formula helps manage the symptoms of ADHD or binge eating disorder without the need for multiple doses.

Why doesn’t Vyvanse work on exactly the same timeline for everyone? Well, that has something to do with how your body processes the medication. Vyvanse is a prodrug of dextroamphetamine, which means that it has to be metabolized to become active. As lisdexamfetamine circulates through the bloodstream, it steadily converts to dextroamphetamine, which then elevates levels of dopamine and norepinephrine—neurotransmitters key to attention and behavior regulation.

When Vyvanse is working, you can expect a significant reduction in the symptoms of ADHD and binge eating disorder. You can expect a gradual improvement in your ability to focus and pay attention alongside a decrease in hyperactivity and impulsivity, It can also help reduce the number of binge eating days. But how soon that happens depends on individual metabolism.

Common side effects of Vyvanse may include dry mouth, loss of appetite leading to weight loss, trouble sleeping, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. More serious side effects include circulation problems, neurological problems, high blood pressure, heart problems such as heart attack, allergic reactions, dependence, and withdrawal if you stop taking it abruptly.

What can affect how long it takes Vyvanse to work?

While most people feel the effects of Vyvanse within 90 minutes, it may take effect more quickly or more slowly depending on:

  • Metabolism: Individuals with a faster metabolism may process Vyvanse more quickly.
  • Dosage: Higher doses may have a more pronounced and faster effect, though they also come with an increased risk of side effects.
  • Food: Taking Vyvanse with or without food can affect its absorption and onset time.
  • Drug interactions: Taking Vyvanse with other prescription medications, particularly antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and over-the-counter supplements, can affect how Vyvanse works.
  • Body and brain chemistry: Individual differences in body chemistry can influence the effectiveness of Vyvanse.

To help Vyvanse work most effectively, take it at the same time every day and use the medication alongside lifestyle changes, like eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep. “Your diet and sleep will likely not affect the onset of the effects of Vyvanse, but a healthy diet and adequate sleep are important for general well-being, which can play a major role in ADHD and eating disorder symptoms,” says Prest.

RELATED: Everything to eat and avoid when you have ADHD

What is the standard Vyvanse dosage?

According to the Mayo Clinic, children older than six and adults start by taking a 30 mg chewable tablet or Vyvanse capsule once a day in the morning. Then, if needed, your healthcare provider may slowly increase the dose up to 70 mg until you reach optimal symptom control with minimal side effects. However, the prescribed dose of Vyvanse varies depending on your age, the condition being treated, and your response to the medication.

Who should avoid taking Vyvanse?

While Vyvanse is a common prescription medication, it is not suitable for everyone, and it is a controlled substance. People who have a history of drug abuse, heart problems, high blood pressure, or certain mental health conditions like bipolar disorder should avoid Vyvanse. Additionally, Vyvanse can interact with other medications, particularly MAOIs. Seek medical advice from a healthcare provider who is familiar with your preexisting conditions, prescription drugs, and supplements before beginning treatment.

The bottom line: Vyvanse works within 4 hours

Vyvanse starts working within 90 minutes and reaches maximum potency within four hours. Some people feel the effects as quickly as 30 minutes. To optimize the effects of Vyvanse, take it at the same time every day, eat a healthy diet, and try to keep a regular sleep schedule.