Vyvanse is a stimulant that affects the chemicals in the brain to control both hyperactivity and impulsivity in children between the ages of six and 12, as well as adults. As Drugs.com explains, doctors prescribe this medication to to help treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder along with with psychological, social and educational therapy.
Weight Loss
While the main purpose of Vyvanse is to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, doctors will sometimes use the stimulant as a weight loss medication for people who are obese, according to Arthur Schoenstadt, MD. For patients taking it for its intended purpose, however, weight loss can be a dangerous side effect--especially for growing children. Schoenstadt states that in clinical trials, 39 percent of children taking this drug had a decrease in appetite and 9 percent lost weight. Parents should monitor their children's weight carefully, and speak to a doctor if they appear to be losing too much weight. A variety of medications are available to treat this disorder without risking a child's well-being.
Insomnia
MayoClinic.com warns that insomnia is another less serious yet common side effect of Vyvanse. According to Schoenstadt, insomnia occurred in 19 percent of patients during clinical trials. The main symptoms of insomnia include the inability to fall asleep, waking up too early in the morning and waking up in the middle of the night for no apparent reason and being unable to go back to sleep. This side effect may subside as the body adjusts to the medication. During this time, patients can combat these symptoms by creating a set sleep-wake schedule, relaxing before bedtime, napping early in the day, and making sure the sleep environment is comfortable.
Diarrhea
As Schoenstadt and MayoClinic.com report, diarrhea is another problem patients may face when taking Vyvanse. Medically speaking, diarrhea is a condition that causes loose, watery stools more than three times in one day and can last a day or two. In most cases, doctors allow this condition to run its course. However, when the cause is medication, they may choose to change the medication. It is important for patients to remain hydrated while suffering from this condition, as diarrhea causes a major loss of bodily fluids. Drinking a minimum of eight glasses of water a day is helpful, as is consuming clear broth.
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