My son is on vyvance and can not sleep!?

Insomnia is one of the most common side effects of Vyvanse. Vyvanse is the brand name for a chemical called Lisdexfetamine which is a precursor/analogue/prodrug to Dextroamphetamine, meanine that once Vyvanse has been processed by the liver it becomes (metabolizes into) Dexedrine, which is one of the more powerful prescription amphetamines available on the market today.

The reason Vyvanse was originally created was to reduce abuse potential, although Shire Pharmaceuticals doesn't usually like to admit this, but in the end 20mg of Vyvanse is roughly equivalent to 4.5-5 mg Dextroamphetamine, depending on specfic physiology, so insomnia is always a concern. This particular side effect may lessen over time, but unfortunately, in most cases, so will the effectiveness of the medication.

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Unfortunately, once again due to unique physiology, it is almost impossible to predict at what point in the treatment cycle a particular side effect will manifest, but 3 months into the regimen does seem a little late in the game for insomnia to become problematic.

Although Vyvanse is specicfically designed for children 6-17, Ritalin and Adderall have proven themselves, at least in my opinion, far more effective in managing ADD/ADHD symptoms in patients within this age range. Far less data exists concerning long-term use and clinical efficacy of Vyvanse.

Sometimes, finding the right med can be a frustrating endeavour and requires an understaning Doctor who's willing to listen, preferably one who specialized in ADD/ADHD and related disorders.

Although the use of hypnotics/sedatives in conjunction with stimulant medications is normally not recommended, sometimes it is the only option, Normally, a low-dose benzodiazepine with a long half-life, such as Klonopin (Clonazepam).

Keep in mind that Ritalin (Methylphenidate) is normally better toleated by juveniles in terms of side effects such as insomnia, but I'm guessing your physician has already tried Ritalin as Vyvanse usually isn't prescribed unless Adderall and Ritalin have already proven ineffective.

Lastly, and I'm sure you've already considered this... was there a change in dosage or time of administration just prior to the insomnia becoming problematic? This might be something to consider.

Hopefully this helps, sorry I couldn't formulate a more concise response to your question. Stimulants are a tricky class of medication to deal with and I don't like to take chances where children are concerned. I have three of my own plus a young grandson. (By the grace of God, of the four, only my 12 year old son has ADHD).

I have also been diagnosed with ADD, but thankfully, mine is completely controlled by low-dose Dextroamphetamine. If you have any other questions feel free to let me know. Just know that you are not alone and hang in there.

Yours Truly,

Colin M. Zimmermann
Bourbon, MO