Vyvanse withdrawal can be a challenging experience, especially for those who have relied on the medication for years to manage ADHD or binge eating disorder. While every individual’s experience is different, many people turn to online forums like Reddit to share their stories, seek advice, and connect with others going through similar struggles. These firsthand accounts provide valuable insight into what to expect and how to navigate the detox process.

Understanding Vyvanse Dependence and Withdrawal

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a stimulant medication that affects the brain’s neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine. It helps increase focus and alertness, which is why it’s commonly prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder.

Over time, the body becomes used to having the drug in its system, so it may not function normally without it. When Vyvanse is stopped abruptly, the brain temporarily struggles to produce and balance these neurotransmitters on its own, causing withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, depression, and difficulty concentrating.

What Does Vyvanse Withdrawal Feel Like?

When someone stops taking Vyvanse, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, especially if they’ve been using the medication for a long period or at high doses. Withdrawal is typically more intense in people who have been abusing or are addicted to the drug.

Even when taking Vyvanse as prescribed, it can be physically habit-forming, leading to withdrawal symptoms upon cessation. The r/ADHD subreddit has many posts from people who have stopped taking Vyvanse after several years describing their experiences with Vyvanse withdrawal. Their experiences are as follows:

• “I was on Vyvanse since 2016 when I stopped for some reason in early 2022. It was as others are describing— brain fog, flat emotions, zero ambition, fatigued. I was off for a couple of months and drank lots of caffeinated drinks in the beginning. If that was ‘withdrawal’, after about a week or so I was on the other side and feeling ‘normal.’” – dansam55
• “I tapered for 1 month then quit. After that, it felt like a descent into hell for almost 4 months. Constant lethargy, absolutely 0 motivation. I used all my vacation and sick time at work just to get through it.” – ChrisKross444
• “ I feel awful. Depressed and low energy.” – Agent_Doubletap
• “For my case. There was no anxiety or any negative emotions but I had some severe muscle aches and fatigue for exactly 4 days.” – ProfessionalNew8921
• “Vyvanse is an easy cold Turkey, but everyone’s different & on different doses, so I’m not trying to be unsympathetic to those who experienced it. Best to talk to your dr for guidance on how to discontinue.” – Gettheflymickeymilo

Many users note that weaning yourself off Vyvanse, ideally with medical guidance, can help prevent withdrawal symptoms.

Common Vyvanse Withdrawal Symptoms

Symptoms of Vyvanse withdrawal may include:

• Fatigue
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Increased appetite
• Difficulty concentrating
• Brain fog
• Insomnia
• Sleep disturbances
• Anxiety
• Restlessness
• Drug cravings

Vyvanse should be managed under a doctor’s supervision, as symptoms can vary in intensity. Gradually tapering off the medication with medical guidance can help reduce the severity of withdrawal.

How Long Does Vyvanse Withdrawal Last?

When it comes to how long withdrawals last, Reddit users have varying experiences. Local_scientician says, “You’ll be back to baseline in about 3-4 days” while Prathik says, “it was around a week.” Many users agree that their withdrawal symptoms subsided after 6-7 days.

The duration of Vyvanse withdrawal can vary depending on factors like the dose, how long the person has been taking the medication, and whether they were using it as prescribed or in higher amounts. 

A general timeline is as follows:

• Days 1-2 – Withdrawal symptoms appear
• Days 2-4 – Peak withdrawal occurs
• Days 5-7 – Symptoms begin to subside
• Week 1-2 – Symptoms resolve

Navigating Vyvanse Withdrawal Safely

If you or someone you know is experiencing Vyvanse withdrawal, it’s essential to follow a safe and structured plan. You should detox under the care of your prescribing physician or a medical detox center. A healthcare professional will advise you to avoid stopping Vyvanse abruptly as they can create a safe tapering plan.

Additional tips for coping with withdrawal include:

• Stay hydrated
• Eat a balanced, nutritious diet
• Rest, light exercise, and relaxation techniques (like deep breathing or yoga) can help manage fatigue, irritability, and anxiety
• Consider therapy to cope with emotional symptoms like depression or anxiety during withdrawal
• Lean on family and friends for emotional support during this process
• Avoid alcohol or recreational drugs, as they can interfere with recovery

If you experience significant mood changes or depression, reach out to your doctor for guidance and support.

Find Help Now

If you’re struggling with Vyvanse withdrawal or thinking about stopping the medication, you don’t have to go through it alone. Withdrawal can be uncomfortable, but with the right support, you can navigate it safely and effectively.

At Moving Mountains Recovery, we can help you detox safely and begin your recovery journey. To learn about our treatment programs or get started with a confidential, risk-free assessment, please contact us today!