I was just prescribed 30 mg of Vyvanse for binge eating disorder, hoping this will work. I haven't taken it yet, as my pharmacy needs a day to fill the script since they were out of it... but was just wondering if anyone had any advice, comments, experiences, etc.
Thanks
Has anyone used Vyvanse for Binge Eating Disorder?
Question posted by daniche on 10 March 2015
Last updated on 12 May 2018
The information on this page reflects personal experiences shared by our community members. It is not reviewed for medical accuracy and should not replace professional medical advice.
55 Answers Page 4
Tigersswim
24 July 2015
I am 48 and have struggled with BED for about 10 years off and on it gets really out of control when I stress which has been excessive the last 8 months I used to smoke to that really helped me manage my BED but alas I kicked the habit so binging is now really out of control. Today was my first day on vyvanse and I did very well. I took mine with a large omelet at around 7:30 and it lasted all day. Kept me focused and not constantly thinking about food. Didn't have a problem getting my Dr to give it to me but I did have my ducks in a row when I went in and was able to give him details on my daily behavior which helped. I really hope I continue to have good results because I feel like a new person today.
2X4
24 July 2015
Good luck! It's been a little over 3 weeks for me and I'm still amazed that I don't dwell on food. I've been logging my food in my fitness pal and my still very little exercise in pacer. I'm very satisfied on 1500 - 1700 calories a day. I think I've lost 6 pounds in three weeks. I do have problems with dry mouth and insomnia, but they're both getting better. I hope you find success, too!
Cheezie
22 Jan 2016
Hi, I am starting medication tomorrow. My binge eating usually begins in the afternoon until the evening... and most nights... the dosage states to take in the morning, but if I do, I think it won't last as long as I require. If I take it too late, I might not sleep... any experiences with time frames?
Exercisegirl
15 Sep 2016
Congratulations on quitting smoking
2X4
28 June 2015
I'm starting my prescription tomorrow morning. I've struggled for 40+ years (I'm 54) and am really hoping that food and eating will stop being the central focus in my life. I had to wait a week for the script, because my insurance limited it to up to 26 years of age - apparently for ADHD diagnoses; just got sorted out today. :)
Unconditional
29 June 2015
Good luck! I am on my second month and only had a small binge ONCE, the day I didn't take the medication! This is a miracle for me! My ability to make healthy choices has increased and my life is now not about food and eating. I have had some kind of eating disorder since I was 10 1/2. I am 53. pray you get the same peace!
2X4
30 June 2015
Thank you! First day down and I feel good. Besides not eating mindlessly, I seem more focused and to be smoking less. I know it's too soon to say, but it's exciting to see positive results quickly!
kelbliss
1 July 2015
Congrats, hope it helps you
If Only
3 July 2015
My question - I started Vyvanase 30 mg today. It seems like I felt different within a few hours. I'm more alive, have better attention, and have not been obsessive about food. It seems unreal that it could be effective immediately. Did you all feel like it started making a difference right away?
Some background on me - I'm 51 years old - and have been struggling with BED since kindergarten when my mother put me on my first diet. I have tried tons of ways to loose weight/stop bindging (WW, Diet Center, OA, therapy, etc.)
I am excellent at loosing and gaining wait - dependant on which way I'm obsessing. If you add all the weight I've lost (and gained back) together over the years, I'm sure it's over 1000 pounds. Around 1 1/2 years ago I lost 130 pounds on a medically supervised liquid diet. It was a dream come true - there were no decissions. I didn't have to decide what I could handle eatting without triggering a binge. For 10 months I didn't put anything in my mouth other than the liquids. I did it out of being terrifed that if I ate one thing, I'd lose it and go back to binding. I kept the weight off for a brief time and over the last year I've gained most of the weight back.
I am clearly unable to eat like a "normal" person. I cannot simply eat what is necessary. If I eat, it's typically a bindge. There is no point in eatting one of anything - the whole container must be eatten.
2X4
3 July 2015
I felt different within an hour or so too! I don't know if it's because I know it is also treats send, but I also felt less distracted and forgetful. My appetite is lower and I haven't chip or ice cream binged. I did go through a box of cereal over two nights at 10 pm, so I think I'm going to start taking my dose a little later in the morning, maybe 9 instead of 6:30. Otherwise, I feel great, in control of my eating, and just need to work on hydration and dry mouth. I hope it works well for you so you don't have to fear solid food!
kelbliss
4 July 2015
Yes you nèed to drink water as you do get a very dey mouth. If Only? I know its very hard but try get the diet mentality out of your mind, you need to try break that cycle, im sure you know that and its easier said than done especially since we have been going through it for so long, please keep hope that you can get through it
If Only
7 July 2015
Thanks for your support. 5 days down and I can't believe how different I feel. I've never experienced feeling satisfied after eatting something - and not wanting to eat more. It's very strange to not have any desire to bindge. My appetite is pretty non-existant, but that never stopped me from bindging in the past, so I'm thrilled.
I know it's going to take a lot of work to get out of the dieting mentality and I'm not sure I'm ready to do that. I feel like I still need to hold on to that for now until I get my weight back under control and make sure I'm not putting my health at risk. I'm hoping that with time and continued therapy I'll get there.
I'm doing much better with the hydrating, and the dry mouth isn't quite as bad as it was. Now if I can get this insomnia side effect kicked. When I'm ale to get myself to fall asleep, I've been waking up a couple of hours later. Has anyone found any tricks to help you sleep or stay asleep?
Inactive
9 July 2015
If Only, kelbliss is right; as difficult as it is, you have to try to let go of the diet mentality. I don't think it truly goes away in any of us but "waiting until I lose weight" mentality is so self-destructive and, in the long run, won't help on your journey to becoming a "normal" eater. If you're in therapy, your therapist would know best and I certainly don't know your health details, but I do know that all the times I've "waited to get thin," have been for a lost cause because they've never happened. "Waiting until I lose weight" isn't a concrete goal; that's the problem. I once read somewhere: "I'd die to be as thin as I was 2 years ago, when I was dying to be thinner." In other words, we never reach the "when." Sorry, I'm not trying to lecture and I do know your struggle first-hand. Even if you start slowly . . . one meal at a time, one food item at a time, etc.
I'm glad to hear the Vyvanse has given you relief. I know there are doubters out there about treating BED with Vyvanse but for those of us who struggle, we know it really works! Best of luck!
Changing
31 July 2015
I just read your post and wondered how it is going? I am new to taking Vyvanse for BED. I am your age and have too struggled for too many years. Reading these posts have been so encouraging to me. Thanks for sharing.
KittensMittens
27 June 2015
Hi daniche, Just checking in on you. How are you doing?
KittensMittens
kelbliss
1 July 2015
This place is busy now, hope you ladies are doing well, thankyou KM for checking on us, means alot
teaandhoney
24 June 2015
This thread was so helpful. Thank you so much to all who contributed. I go in this Friday to discuss Vyvanse with my doctor. After reading this though I have curiousity about Dextroamphetamine. Is this prescribed for BED?
kelbliss
1 July 2015
Im on dexamphetamine's for Adult ADD, it helps my mind with my BED, Vyvanse is the only FDA approved drug for BED (I think)
amy611
18 June 2015
great site, great thread. i joined so i could add my two cents. I'm 52, binge-eater for 40 years and binge/starver for the past 10 years. Used to be overweight but now alternate my binges by starving. I can't handle it anymore and just want to run away. Give up my family and live somewhere in the boonies all by myself with my disease. Of course then I come to my senses again and start the binge / starve / wanting to run away cycle over again. I want to try Vyvanse but don't know which doctor to ask. I don't have a primary care physician since I switched from Kaiser to regular insurance and have to find someone new. I'm a pharmacy tech so I am familiar with patients who only want schedule II drugs and I assume doctors feel the same way. I just hate the thought of going to a new doctor and defending my request for this drug, having to convince them that this is a legitimate need especially since I am a normal weight.
Inactive
18 June 2015
I think your best bet is to find a psychiatrist. We all know this is a REAL disorder, and a psychiatrist would recognize it in you when you explain your circumstances. Just because you're not overweight, doesn't mean you don't have BED. Though not as extreme as starvation, I'm like you in that I cycle between binge eating and not enough food. Up until about 5 years ago, I had never been overweight. Since then, my weight has gone up and down but has mostly been "normal," and I DEFINITELY have BED. As far as the schedule II drugs, I'm guessing you mean people trying to abuse them. That's why I think a psychiatrist is a good idea. Since you mention wanting to run away and be by yourself (which I also completely understand), you may have other things going on as well. A psychiatrist would be able to figure out the best way to help you with medication. Also, does your insurance cover therapy? I know it's also very helpful for me. Please know you CAN do this and you're not alone!
bshelly
12 June 2016
I started seeing a RNP. I find that nurses are better listeners than MDs. In my experience, psychiatrists are more so focused on writting prescriptions. I too have been struggling my whole life. I always said I was the only person who gained weight when i was on a constant diet. Its because as soon as I let myself have anything that wasn't on my diet, I lost control. I started Vyvanse three days ago. So far it feels like a miracle. I hope it continues.
moomie70
9 June 2015
I'm a 44 female. I've been 'eating out of turn' since I was 4. I remember bingeing til I was sick for the first time around age 10. I've never purged except for laxatives in my 20's (lasting negative effects on my digestive tract) So I've obviously been overweight my whole adult life, gaining the bulk of it during two pregnancies. I've lost a large amount of weight several times and gained most of it back. I've been in therapy since 22. I've been on different anti-depressants, currently Wellbutrin and Lamictal (happy with those)
I started Vyvanse 34 days ago (20mg) For the first time, I felt like a veil has been lifted. The first week, I lost 10 pounds. I keep saying that the weight loss is gravy (haha) because the relief from food obsession is the incredible gift of this medication. I can't believe how much of my day was spent thinking about food. I was on a cycle of bingeing every day until Vyvanse, I've done it one time in 34 days. I was bumped up to 40mg the next day. I've lost 16 pounds and am feeling the 'focused' effect as well. My house has never been cleaner. I do not get the jitters or insomnia. The first few days, I had a mild headache. I have spent a lot of time trying to get the timing correct. I would feel nibbly in the evening or exhausted if I took it early in the morning. Now I take it at 9am and get the full day affect without affecting my sleep. I've read everything I can find to completely understand the drug. Reddit is a great place for anecdotal information. Such as: stay away from acidic food/drink in the morning and take a Tums or two 15-20 minutes before the med. These tips do help with efficacy and longevity, imho. Exercise is helpful and refreshing to get a feeling of wellbeing.
Sorry for the long post.
TL;DR: So far, Vyvanse is a lifesaver for me, personally.
Changing
31 July 2015
Thank you so much for sharing! I am on my Second day taking 20mg of Vyvanse for treating BED. When did you first notice the desire to not binge?
Staplesc
19 July 2016
Hi,
Just wanted to see how you have been doing on Vyvanse after almost a year of use? Is it still working for you? I am just looking into this drug and the reviews have all been very positive but just wondering a year later if you still agree with what you said.
Thanks!
Unconditional
3 June 2015
I am new to forum and after a lifetime of EDs that morphed into chronic daily BED, I was given Vyvanse 20mg a week ago. Since I started it, I haven't binged after binging everyday since January. I do drink coffee in the morning, and take V20mg by 10 am. Seems to last through dinner. I get really tired at 9 but that is not unusual as I was usually in a food coma by then anyway. I have hope as food has been a "nonissue" since I started taking it. I do have dry mouth but I figured the increased water drinking is good for me! I have even become focused on my projects and I am getting things done! So far so good!
Inactive
5 April 2015
I'm so glad I found this post! I've been searching to try to find someone else on Vyvanse for B.E.D. I've struggled with disordered eating for over 20 years (and I'm in my 30s!). My doctor started me on 20 mg a few weeks ago and when that didn't work, she moved me to 40 mg. I feel like it works in the morning and then stops around 10. I told my doctor this at my last visit and she seemed to think it was working. Do any of you find that it wears off even though the drug is supposed to stay in your body for 12 hours? I really want her to raise my dose on my next visit. (I've had absolutely no side effects.) I've been on a horrible binge for the past few days. Before this one, they've been frequent and intense. I've gained a lot of weight and my clothes don't fit. Is this my best hope? It'll only work in the morning? I know I need to do cognitive work too (I'm in therapy) but I felt like this was some relief in the mean time.
Sorry for the long post. Thank you for listening (well, reading).
As for the insurance issue, I also have BCBS. They cover it for me with a $50 copay. There's a coupon on the Vyvanse website that brings it down to $30. However, my Vyvanse is prescribed by a psychiatrist, which probably makes a difference. I hope it's been straightened out for everyone who was having issues! Daniche, any luck?
daniche
5 April 2015
Hi Hopefulivy! I'm also in my 30s (37) and struggled with binge eating on and off... more so the last year though. I broke up w/ my boyfriend and I went out of control w/ the binging.
I think it's good that you went up to 40mg. I'm on 30, and I've come to the conclusion that it's fine for me... however, in all of the medical journals I've read (a family member works in a hospital and brings them home for me), most of the studies show that 50-70mg of Vyvanse was the ONLY dose that was statistically superior to the placebo. I think it's different for everyone though, because 30mg is fine for me. Maybe you should talk to your doctor about moving up to 50, but maybe no more than 70mg? The medicine should not be wearing off for you at 10am though... it usually lasts almost 12 hours for me, so this makes me think that you should up the dose.
I take it at about 6am, before I start getting ready for work and I'd say around 4:30-5pm is when it starts feeling like it's wearing off... I get tired, my appetite is stronger, etc. I make sure to eat dinner as soon as I get home from work at about 5pm. Today marks day 20 for me on 30mg of Vyvanse. So far I have no complaints. It motivates me and helps me concentrate. I had one small binge at the beginning with 1 lb of almonds, but that was it. I went from binging 5-6 days/week to now no days per week.
Before this medication, I had put on about 20 lbs from the binging, so this has been like a godsend to me.
And yea, as far as the BCBS situation goes, it angers me to no end how many hoops I had to go through. My doctor (psychiatrist) had to put a second appeal in and I am waiting on BCBS to get back to me with their decision. If they deny me again, my doctor has 1 more chance to file an appeal... otherwise he said I can pick up another coupon where I'd pay only $15, but I believe it would only be a 1-time thing for 30 days. Argh... so frustrating!
But yea, getting back to the weight thing, I know how it feels to binge, gain a ton of weight, not have your clothes fit, get depressed, and then binge again... it's like one viscous cycle. :( Hang in there though. Let us know if you up the dose. You might have better luck moving up. Keep in touch on here!
Inactive
5 April 2015
Daniche, thank you so much for your response. I will talk to my doctor about moving up the dose. I'm so glad it's working for you. Congratulations! That gives me hope.
I'm sorry about the insurance. I just don't understand why they're not approving it for you, especially if it's from a psychiatrist. I had no problem at all. Why would the same insurance company approve it for some people and not others?! I really hope it works out for you.
And yes, please keep in touch on here! Reading the posts from the rest of you has been very helpful for me.
KittensMittens
7 April 2015
Hi hopefulivy,
I'm glad for both of us that we found this post! How many days have you been taking the 40 mg Vyvanse? What time in the morning do you take the Vyvanse?
That's great that you have no side effects. But you mentioned that you've been on a horrible binge the last few days. As you know, there is no cure for
B.E.D. so far, just continued treatment. It is important to always combat this disease on all levels any way we can. Cognitive therapy work is immensely important because B.E.D. is emotionally triggered, as well as, a chemical imbalance in the brain. I've been on and off cognitive therapy for bipolar and
B.E.D. most of my life. I have found very few good mental health professionals who were knowledgeable about bipolar and even less that knew anything about binge eating. Some even told me that I was "just not disciplined" which only added to my shame and gult for having ultimately failed on all of my attempts at gaining control over my eating. Cognitive Therapy can give suggestions to assist you in keeping your emotions in check, while Vyvanse give you the "will power" to stick with the suggestions.
I hope you found a good therapist.
I have had an enormous appetite for junk food since my teens. I was always athletic and slim before my mid-twenties, but then my metabolism changed.
Also, I became sedentary, had a traumatic break up with my finance and experienced increase stress levels with a management career. I was/am the poster child for B.E.D.
Since Vyvanse was just recently approved for B.E.D., I have been researching several other blogs/forums on Vyvanse under ADHD/ADD. I have gathered so much invaluable information about Vyvanse, i.e., hunger, duration of effects in the long term, as well as, daily duration, what foods to eat, what foods to avoid, knowing the right dosage that works for your individual body, splitting the dosage into two times per day by adding each dose to a glass of water which increases the daily duration of its' effects, eliminating any acidic foods/drinks,.i.e., orange juice, exercising, drinking lots of water, avoiding sugar, getting enough sleep and eating small portions of protein throughout the day. Including, eating a small portion of protein just before you go to bed to avoid the dreaded night time hunger and binging.
I am also journaling my activities, emotions and keeping track of what I eat and the calories. No more than 1200 calories per day. I have found that all these suggestions have increased the benefits of Vyvanse, making it a great experience (so far). I feel very fortunate to be able to take this drug. I just hope I don't build up a resistance to it, so I'm being very careful to do everything possible to get the most out of the 40 mg. dosage. This has been
a miracle for me. But, everyone is different, so the mg may be a different dosage needed than the one I am on. Take care. KittensMittens
Inactive
8 April 2015
Hi KittensMIttens, thank you for your response. I started on 40 mg about a month ago. I take it between 6:30 and 7 a.m. each day. Yes, I was on a horrible binge but things have been much better lately. I don't know if it takes the medicine time to start working or if it's psychological but things are better and I'll take it!
Fortunately, I have found a great therapist. I've only just begun with him but I think it's a good fit. I also suffer from depression and anxiety. I am on medication for them too.
Like you, I've also been doing a lot of research on the ADD/ADHD websites. I'm sure we've reviewed many of the same sites. I'm very conscious of the dosage because I do have a fear of building up a tolerance. I see my doctor next week so I'll be able to discuss it with her. On the one hand, I have relief for at least part of the day but on the other hand, what if a slightly higher dose would help for the whole day while I work through my psychological issues? I don't want to look a gift horse in the mouth since this is the most relief I've had in years.
I track my food as well and I'm very careful about what foods I have in the house. I also keep a journal to record my emotions and what is happening in my life.
Like you, I feel so fortunate to be taking this drug. It's given me hope for the first time in a long time. In addition, I am a migraine sufferer and I haven't had a single one since beginning the medication. That's another piece that gives me hope. My headaches are so debilitating.
Keep in touch on here! Best of luck!
kelbliss
14 April 2015
How are you ladies going? Ive had the worst week or so off Vyvanse, my doctor is still against giving me the meds, ive ended up being so depressed because as the same as you ladies, its the only medication that has helped me. I still have most of a bottle so im starting back on them in the morning, while I wait to be assessed by a new doctor
Hope you are all still doing fine
daniche
14 April 2015
Kelbliss, oh no! I'm sorry to hear you're having a bad week. Ugh... why won't your doctor give you Vyvanse? (sorry, you may have mentioned why in a previous post... )
I feel your pain somewhat though. I've been having a horrible week too. I've had a really bad upper respiratory infection and I wanted to take a break from the Vyvanse for just 2-3 days, just because I want to be able to rest and was sick enough where I didn't think I had an appetite. I didn't take it Saturday-today and I was binging pretty badly. I had to run to the pharmacy to get cough syrup and I ended up buying and eating a 1 lb bag of almonds (among other things in my house). As soon as I feel better, I will start back on the Vyvanse. I really hope your doctor realizes that you need the prescription. :( Let us know what happens and try to stay positive. :(
Inactive
14 April 2015
Kelbliss, I'm so sorry. That's incredibly frustrating. I don't know how it works in Australia but is your doctor a psychiatrist or a medical doctor? It seems that a psychiatrist would be more understanding. With all the negativity and controversy surrounding Vyvanse for the treatment of BED, as sufferers of this disorder, we know that it really does make a difference. I hope that you find a doctor who will prescribe more to you. Keep us updated.
kelbliss
15 April 2015
Hope you feel better soon daniche and thankyou both, I started back on the tablets that I had left and started to feel better straight away. He was just my GP, I rang 5 different pychiatrists and told me the first appointment I could get was November, I finally found one for 29th of April so thats only 2 weeks away, I have enough meds till then, I had forgotten how good they make you feel. Im going to try my hardest now to binge, I dont want to get that low again
daniche
20 April 2015
Hello ladies...
Well I finally finished my 1 month of Vyvanse. I was sick all of last week with an upper respiratory infection, so I skipped about 5 days of taking it. I binged a bit (I think I mentioned that in my last post). My doctor gave me a refill for the script, I took it to Walgreens, and Blue Cross STILL has not approved me for the med. I called Blue Cross and they are stating they still have 2 weeks left to make a decision off of the appeal letter that my doctor sent in. I thought one of the 'free' Shire coupons that I had would cover my refills, but they don't.
I ended up calling my doctor to advise him that I can't get my refill, and that I have no pills left. He is giving me a script for Dextroamphetamine since Blue Cross won't pay for the Vyvanse (or if they will pay, they still have 2 more weeks to advise me). The Dextroamphetamine is one of the ingredients in Vyvanse, so hopefully this works the same for me. I am really bummed out though... I really really liked the Vyvanse and it seemed to really help me with the binging, without giving me crazy jitters or insomnia. Do either of you have any experience with Dextroamphetamine? Apparently it is lisdexamfetamine and dexedrine... Ugh..I hate starting new medications.
I am going to stay current with the messages in this thread though, as I am still hoping that Blue Cross will eventually end up paying for the Vyvanse.
Inactive
20 April 2015
Hi Daniche,
No, I have no experience with it. I've heard of it and I know it's prescribed off label for weight loss. I just Googled it (to have a better understanding of what you'll be taking) and it sounds like it produces a similar outcome to Vyvanse, which makes sense if it's one of the ingredients. I'm sorry BCBS is giving you such a problem! I really do hope it gets straightened out. Keep us updated!
KittensMittens
20 April 2015
Hi daniche, I'm so sorry to hear about your delay with the Blue Cross decision on Vyvanse.
They did the same thing to me with one of my bipolar meds.
I tried a different med and it didn't help. So, I called Blue Cross until I found a rep that would give me the name, title, dept. and mailing address of the decision making person for the approval of the drug I needed.I sent my letter via Priority Mail and called almost everyday until they confirmed that the person received my letter. I was approved. If the drug your doctor just wrote doesn't work for you. Maybe Phentermine may help. It's an amphetamine like Vyvanse. It's ok if not used with Fen. and for only a few months. You may have to go the ADD diagnosis route. I really want you to get the
Vyvanse because you deserve it.
KittensMittens
20 April 2015
Hi kelbliss,
My heart goes out to you about
having such a bad week. I had oral surgery about 10 days ago and had a bad reaction to the meds for the pain and the antibiotics. I too stopped taking Vyvanse during my healing process. I read to abruptly stop Vyvanse especially with bipolar creates a lot of depression, but I had no choice and experienced a terrible week. Today, I took my 1st Vyvanse in 10 days. It was a "sun come up kind of day". I'm so glad to hear that you are the type of person who pushes ahead when things get tough. We are all routing for you here! KittensMittens
noellengod
20 April 2015
HopefulIvy: I am in the same boat as you. Have had this problem since elementary school and I am in my 30s. you are the only other person I've ever heard of having it that young also. Here's hoping that we both successful in the recovery. We can be emailed support buddies if you want.
kelbliss
21 April 2015
Hi Ladies, hope you are feeling better soon, so sorry that you guys get so stuffed around just to get meds, it isnt like that here in Australia
daniche I havent heard od the drug either, but the drug that KM mentioned Phentermine or Duromine is a good medication, gives you the same kind of feeling as Vyvanse but its a weight loss drug. I used to ise it to give my mind a holiday when I couldnt stop bingeing, it really helped
Im doing fine as I went back on Vyvanse, I see a Psychiatrist in 8 days to be assessed and diagnosed. I will be able to fight to get Vyvanse now as im back on them and not in the dark place anymore
Its great having you ladies as support, thankyou so much
Inactive
21 April 2015
kelbliss, I'm so glad to hear you'll be seeing a psychiatrist soon. Keep fighting for yourself! You're worth it!
daniche
21 April 2015
Kellbliss...
I'm glad you're back on the Vyvnase... hopefully when you see your doc in a week, you'll get more.
About 2 hours ago I took the 10mg dextroamphetamine. Typically with the Vyvanse, I'd feel a 'boost' within 30 min. So far I don't know if I feel anything. Maybe I do? I have to call Blue Cross again in about 5 days to follow up to see if they accepted my doctor's appeal for me to be on Vyvanse.
Hope all of you guys are doing well. Thanks for continuing to post! :)
kelbliss
29 April 2015
Hi ladies, some wonderful and not so wonderful news, I saw the new Psychiatrist today, he was quite good, I was assessed and diagnosed with Adult ADD which means I will get the Vyvanse BUT, im not Bipolar (which is great) and I have to slowly go off of the bipolar meds. Which means 6 weeks, then I will get Vyvanse at a cheaper cost
The next 6 weeks wont be the best but im happy with the diagnoses, ive waited many years, a few more weeks wont hurt too much
Hope you all are doing well
daniche
29 April 2015
Good morning ladies!
Kelbliss, that is awesome news! I am so happy for you about being able to get the Vyvanse! The 6 weeks will go by quickly and you’ll get the Vyvanse in no time. What mg will you be on? And also, what bipolar meds are you currently on that you’re going to be tapering off of? Are you worried about any side effects from tapering off?
As for me, Blue Cross FINALLY approved my doctor’s appeal letter for me to be on the Vyvanse 30mg (it’s about time!). I picked up the prescription yesterday morning and will start it Saturday morning. I still have 2 more pills left of this Dextroamphetamine that my doc gave me to hold me off until the Vyvanse got approved.
Speaking of the dextroamphetamine--- it actually worked a bit differently than the Vyvanse. It made it so I had absolutely NO appetite at all, which left me feeling slightly weak but medically speedy. I was overjoyed because I was not eating at all, but I also don’t want to do ‘that’ and go down that road. Also-I could not hold down any alcoholic beverages, which made it very hard for me socially. One glass of wine, and I felt not only drunk, but ill. It’s weird because the Vyvanse is made up of dextroamphetamine but I never felt like that on the Vyvanse.
I just hope going back on the 30mg of Vyvanse from the 10mg of Dextroamphetamine gives me the same results.
Hope you ladies are doing well and talk to you guys soon!
Inactive
29 April 2015
Kelbliss, that is great news! Daniche is right, the 6 weeks will go by quickly. Are you feeling stress about going off the bipolar meds or is your "not so wonderful news" just that you have to wait another 6 weeks for the Vyvanse?
Daniche, HOORAY for finally getting approval! I know what you mean about the Dextroamphetamine. It's not really addressing the BED if it takes away your appetite. It's just kinda masking it. If you had those side effects, there must be something in Vyvanse that counters them or the Dextroamphetamine that's in Vyvanse isn't nearly as strong as taking it directly.
As for me, I went to my doctor a couple weeks ago and told her about how I felt like the Vyvanse was wearing off in the morning. She suggested taking it twice a day, meaning she DOUBLED my dose! That definitely worried me. Well, the insurance didn't approve it anyway so I'm still in the process of dealing with the insurance and the pharmacy and seeing what the outcome will be. I'm just hoping for a bit of an increase in my dosage because I really think that's all I need, not double! On the plus side, my last binge was a week ago Sunday so my brain is doing some work too.
Hope you all are well!
noellengod
1 May 2015
Has anyone else had heart issues on Vyvanse? I am having rapid heart beating. (In the low 100's when my pulse is normally in the 60's).
KittensMittens
4 May 2015
Hi Ladies, It is so great to hear the wonderful news for you daniche and Kelbliss. I'm so happy for you both. It's been a roller coasted ride for you both to get to this point. Success at last.
hopefulivy, maybe you can split the dose your on and take it twice a day. I read that somewhere. noelengod, my GP
was concerned about my raised blood pressure. I didn't tell my GP that I was on Vyvanse because he might call the other doctor who prescribed it and have him take me off of it. I assume my heart rate goes up along with the blood pressure. But, I feel terrific on this stuff.
My best to each of you ladies!
KittensMittens
daniche
4 May 2015
Good morning ladies!
Great to hear that you’re doing so well, KittensMittens! That’s awesome and I’m so happy for you! Please keep all of us updated on your progress... I look forward to hearing about it! :)
Noellengod-I haven’t had any heart/blood pressure issues, although I can tell you that my heart rate is usually sped up for the majority of the day….but I also drink a lot of coffee, which definitely adds to it. Since Vyvanse is a stimulant medication, I’d assume this is expected, although you mentioned ‘rapid’ heart beating…..maybe you should mention something to your doctor to be on the safe side? How long have you been on the Vyvanse and what dosage?
Hopfulivy-Thanks! Today (Monday) marks my second day back on Vyvanse 30mg. I must say though…..I think I actually liked the straight Dextroamphetamine better. Last night I binged a little bit-not badly, but enough to put me in a sour mood. I never once binged on the dextro. It’s weird how the Vyvanse actually IS dextroamphetamine (dexadrine), but additionally has lisdexamfetamine and how much different it reacts on me. I’ve also noticed (which I noticed before when I had been taking the vyvanse) that I am sluggish to get up in the mornings, whereas with the Dextro, I was ready to get up and go immediately.
Besides the positive effects and results of the Vyvanse, have any of you had any negative side effects? (Noellengod, I know you mentioned the rapid heart beating, but anything else negative?)
I am very torn whether or not I should give Vyvanse 30mg another few days, ask for a higher dose, or just let my doctor know that I got used to the dextro and that I’d like a script for it. It’s kind of a shame because it took me so very long to get approved for this Vyvanse, you know?
Inactive
4 May 2015
I've had no side effects at all. I even have a heart condition and haven't had any issues with rapid heart rate or raised blood pressure. I saw my doctor and she DOUBLED my dose. She wants me to take the 40mg twice a day! That seems like a lot. That was a couple weeks ago and the insurance wouldn't approve it since it's 2 pills a day. In some ways, I'm actually relieved. It's still unresolved. I go back to my doctor on Monday so we'll see what happens. Daniche, you might want to give it a few more days but only you know best. I know the studies done found the Vyvanse most effective in the 50 and 70mg doses. Also, I've also binged while on the Vyvanse. I know that it doesn't completely take the urges away. I'm trying to look at the medication as one of the tools to help with binge eating. If taking a drug makes the urges go away completely, we'll never practice having and resisting them. Does that make sense?
Inactive
4 May 2015
Also, I'm wondering if there's some way for us to set up a private group so that all of our personal comments aren't broadcast for the entire internet to read.
daniche
5 May 2015
Hi Hopefulivy!
Yes, totally makes sense what you said. The Vyvanse is definitely not a miracle pill, but it is a big help. I am going to stick on it and finish the 27 days of pills that I have left. I am thinking I might need to have my doctor up the dose. 30 mg doesn't feel like much to me since I was taking the Dexrtroamphetamine. (the 10mg of dextro seemed much stronger than 30mg of Vyvanse)
So you said that your doc wants you to do the 40mg twice a day….are you going to? I know you stated something about insurance not paying for it for twice/day though (which sounds like my insurance too). The only hesitance I would have (because I am thinking of asking my doctor if I can do that as well-but with the 30mg) is that I am worried I would have endless insomnia. Right now I am taking the pill at 6:30am, by the time 5pm hits, I am beat. I am able to fall asleep at 8:30 if I have to.
And yeah-I am wondering the same thing about setting up a private group on here. I’ll search the site and see if we can…..
Toystorylover
5 May 2015
I was just prescribed 40 mg of Vyvanse for binge eating yesterday mid morning. I've been struggling with BED since high school (I'm thirty now). I took the medication as soon as I got it filled and instantly felt the effects. I wasn't sure what I was going to feel or how it will help me control my disorder. I was able to go through dinner/evening time (my toughest part of the day tempting to binge). Today I took the medication first thing in the morning which is around 6:30/7 ish. All throughout the morning and early afternoon I felt the effects however I noticed it slowly faded and seemed to be out of my system around 4. This left the evening hours without the help the vyvanse gave me in the morning hours. So my question is should I ask for a higher dosage? Or maybe taking another one mid day? I don't want to experience insomnia but also want the vyvanse to do it job when I need it the most... Evening time. Suggestions?
noellengod
10 May 2015
I am not having any other Side effects besides rapid heart beat, except of I drink coffee, I am having an upset stomach. But that is not a big deal to me, since I should not really be having coffee with the vyvanse if my heart is overstimulated. My husband is a Nurse Practitioner and is monitoring me. :)
debinct
12 May 2015
I'm writing an article on binge eating disorders for a patient guide, and I would love to interview someone who is taking Vyvanese. Would you be interested? The guide will be distributed to doctors' offices across the country. Thank you!
debinct
daniche
13 May 2015
Hi Toystorylover,
I’m on 30mg of Vyvanse and I also feel like it wears off around 4 – 4:30 for me. I take it at 7am and by about 4:30 I can feel it totally tapering off and I get super sleepy. I think taking it later in the day (not too late though-maybe like 10am) might help. I haven’t had an insomnia problems on the Vyvanse--- quite the opposite now in fact. It’s easy for me to fall asleep…and hard for me to wake up in the mornings.
Inactive
13 May 2015
I agree with Daniche. I never did end up switching to taking it twice a day since the insurance wouldn't pay for it. I'm still on my same 40 mg dose. I have started taking it later (though not 10, more like 8:3ish) and feel like it's working a lot better. Also, we have to remember that it's not a miracle cure all and we can still get urges. Toystorylover, before asking for a higher dose, I would give it some time. The longer I've been on Vyvanse (and still just staying at my 40 mg dose), the better I feel it's working. For example, the other day I was really craving something sweet. I was physically hungry but was still concerned about what might happen if I did eat something sweet. Well, I made peanut butter chocolate bars with ingredients that I had around the house (I did halve the recipe) and was worried that I'd get carried away and eat them all.
I took no more than 10 bites, decided I was full and had had enough, and threw the rest away! That's a HUGE step in my world! I don't think that would've happened even in the beginning of my taking Vyvanse. So, give it a bit of time and see what happens.
shay9521
26 May 2015
I have been on 30mg Adderall XR for a few years for ADHD. I'm a "recovered" bulimic in the sense I don't purge anymore. I binge all the time now and they put me on Vyvanse 70mg and I still binge every night. Does it take time to build up?
kelbliss
27 May 2015
I am so sorry to have been AWOL ladies and welcome to our new friends, for the last month ive been going off of bipolar meds and its been the worst time, depression, violent outbursts and so on. I didnt start back on Vyvanse, the psych started me on dexamphetamine's 5mg x 2 a day, I only started 2 days ago, my mind is good but they have made me feel alittle off, but im sure that is just til they kick in, feeling better tonight. I hope everyone is doing ok, I will spend some time catching up on the new posts
kelbliss
27 May 2015
Shay, it can take a little time to build up but in my own experience even with having strong diet pills, medication will never be a perfect fix, I had to sometimes force myself not to binge as well, I found Vyvanse great but I did binge a few times on it, it all takes time, you are a strong person too stop purging, you will get there :)
daniche
27 May 2015
Kelbliss-
I’m so sorry that you’ve been depressed! Trust me, I know how it feels. While I can’t relate to the bipolar, I can relate well to the depression. I had a horrible relapse this past fall/winter from like Oct-March. It sucked and my psych had to up my medication dosages. The depression is my binge-trigger….and after I binge, I feel even more depressed….so it’s just a mess all around.
So now you’re on dexamphetamine…..I am currently on dextroamphetamine (instead of the Vyvanse now). I am assuming dexamphetamine and DEXTROamphetamine are the same thing? I am on 15mg of dextro and I feel that it helps more than the 30 mg of Vyvanse. At about 8 hours after taking the 30mg of Vyvanse, I’d ‘come down’ from it and get super super sleepy. The 15mg of dextroamphetamine gives me the same benefits of the Vyvanse, just not the sleepiness at the end. Do
n’t get me wrong—I’ve still binged on the dextro, and just a couple of weeks ago I binged when I had still been on the Vyvanse. I just can’t keep certain things in my house. (trigger foods--- almonds, chocolate, etc) I’ve been doing the low-carb thing since March 17, so I’ve found that when/if I do binge, at least it’s not on sugar/pasta/bread. Now it’s more wanting nuts/almonds/cheese, etc. Anyways, I feel like I am rambling here. It’s 7:30am and I’ve been at work for about 30 min…took the dextro about 15 min ago so it should be kicking in soon.
Hope you’re feeling better with the depression and what not. Just hang in there! Glad to see that you posted this morning!
Unconditional
3 June 2015
I am new to forum and after a lifetime of EDs that morphed into chronic daily BED, I was given Vyvanse 20mg a week ago. Since I started it, I haven't binged after binging everyday since January. I do drink coffee in the morning, and take V20mg by 10 am. Seems to last through dinner. I get really tired at 9 but that is not unusual as I was usually in a food coma by then anyway. I have hope as food has been a "nonissue" since I started taking it. I do have dry mouth but I figured the increased water drinking is good for me! I have even become focused on my projects and I am getting things done! So far so good!
KittensMittens
22 June 2015
Hi Ladies, It's been awhile since I've posted. daniche how are you doing on the Dextroamphetamine? I'm going to try this starting tomorrow. Vyvanse was good for a while but I began to crash to frequently. Also, my pdoc had me not take it for two days per week to avoid a tolerance build up. Those two days per week were awful as I could not get out of bed. Please let me know any experiences for those of you who have tried dextroamphetamine. And, welcome
to the new ladies on this forum. How are you Kebliss?
Bye for now. KittensMittens
kelbliss
1 July 2015
KM, dexamphetamine is helping soooo much with my mind ... ive been on it for over a month now and ive binged once and I really didnt even want to, im getting through the day and not interested in food at all. Im now on 20mg a day and I started back on 50mg of Pristiq (antidepressant) as my moods were haywire. I was diagnosed with Adult ADD so I wont have a problem getting them now
einahpets
3 July 2015
I am new here and posted a comment to the general question. I see that someone mentioned a private group. Is there a private facebook group for Vyvanse/BED? I would love to join.
Inactive
17 Aug 2015
Sorry that I've been MIA for so long! I've had so many changes in my life. I'm glad to see that other people are joining our "group" and finding this helpful. As for setting up a private group, I don't think it's possible on this website. If enough people are interested, I would be willing to set one up on Facebook. I know that we'd lose our anonymity but I'm not sure how else to go about it.
Charity78
13 Oct 2016
I am on 60 MG a day now
Jane007
4 March 2017
Hi. I realize this is an older thread but I just started Vyvanse and was looking to see if anyone else felt it noticably wearing off too. I've had BED for 20+ years too, and I do feel like this helps, but I absolutely feel like it wears off in the evening. That's unfortunate because that's when I struggle most. I'm already taking the 70mg dosage so I'm not sure what else to do. I wonder if mixing 1/2 of it into juice in the morning and the other 1/2 into juice (or something) in the afternoon would help? Has anyone tried that?
kelbliss
19 March 2015
Im nearly finished my first bottle, im on 30mg of Vyvanse, ive been bingeing for 20+ years and this is the first time I can actually say that I feel like im in recovery. Vyvanse is the best thing ever (for me) and I would recommend it to anyone with BED to try, I feel like its fixed my brain, I dont think about bingeing anymore
Its expensive here in Australia, $140 but its worth every cent. I hope it is working for you both
daniche
19 March 2015
Wow! That's great. I was prescribed Vyvanse about 2 weeks ago but couldn't get my insurance company to authorize (pay) for it, but after going through a couple of hoops, I finally got it.
This morning marks day 3 for me. I feel great, with the exception of a little insomnia. I definitely haven't had 1 binge episode as of yet. It's alos helping me concentrate a bit more, which is a plus.
Have you lost weight on it, since you're almost at the end of the first bottle? Has 30 mg been enough for you?
kelbliss
20 March 2015
The insomnia has basically stopped for me, maybe one night every so often. Being able to concentrate helps me much, im also Bipolar and along with my meds Vyvanse helps keep my mind calm
I have lost 4kg and feel great, except for bingeing I rarely eat junk food, so I expect to lose more but im not obsessed with it, im just happy to not binge
daniche
20 March 2015
Very good to hear it's working for you... I'm hoping that I'll see some eight loss as well.
KittensMittens
25 March 2015
Daniche and Kelbliss, I'm so happy for both of your succeses with Vyvanse.
Daniche how are you feeling at this point in time with the Vyvanse? What's happening with your binging? I'm still jumping through hoops to receive my prescription, but I will share my experience once I begin treatment.
Kelbliss, it seems like Vyvanse is compatible with your Bipolar meds. or are you experiencing any side effects? Continued blessings
In your treatments. KittensMittens
kelbliss
25 March 2015
Good luck with getting your meds KM, im still doing great, the last few days ive had to fight alittle not to binge but things are back to normal today, not sure why I was feeling that way but its gone again now, I start my second bottle tomorrow.
All in all Vyvanse has helped so much, I would have binged upteen times if I wasnt on them
daniche
25 March 2015
I am on day 9 of the Vyvanse (30 mg).
I am still not binging. On the 3rd or 4th day, I binged on almonds, but threw most of them out before I could finish them. I haven't binged since which is a miracle for me... I was binging 5-6 days per week previously.
I have noticed that it's hard to wake up in the morning. I sometimes have a slight 'hungover' feeling. Anyone else have that? I don't think I've lost any weight yet either, but I know that will come with time I guess.
I am curious, how do I know if 30mg is enough for me? I am still hungry and don't really have any of the complete loss of appetite that a lot of people confirm to have. I am not binging anymore, so maybe this is the correct dose? I don't know. My doctor advised that when i am done with this bottle, he can move me to 50mg. I don't know if i need that.
Also-I previously didn't state this, although not sure if this makes a difference. I also take 150 mg Wellbutrin XL and 10 mg prozac. (I've been on both for years)
Any comments or feedback is appreciated! Thank you!
KittensMittens
26 March 2015
I am picking up my Vyvanse tomorrow but will begin taking it this Saturday morning March 28th. I have so much hope because treatment is going so well for the both of you. I can't wait to join the team.
daniche
26 March 2015
Excited for you, KittensMittens! Good that you're starting it on a Saturday. Make sure to take it in the morning as soon as you wake up. Can't wait to hear how you're doing! :)
kelbliss
26 March 2015
daniche just wait and see how you go, if you dont think 30mg is working for you then maybe up it to 50mg next month .. Im still going fine, the last few days I thought the meds stop working for me, but I ended up getting a cold, so thats why I felt off, glad it wasnt the meds
I dont think ive lost any weight this week and im fine with that, being able to live mostly normal around food after so many years out ways losing weight. Its still alittle bit of a battle sometimes but no where near what I was going through
kelbliss
30 March 2015
I was wondering if you both had any problem with your Doctor prescribing Vyvanse to either of you? as you both know im on my second bottle .. when I first went to my doctor about it, I got him to google about the drug and he did also when I went to get my second lot, I went today to ask him if I could go up to 50mg as im having a hard time controling my bingeing right now and he told me he wont give me anymore prescriptions as one of the side affects could be death .. I havent had any side affects really at all, he told me to go off of them and meditate, that pissed me off so much, ive been struggling for 20 years and I find something that mainly helps and I have to go off of them? ... Now I will probably have to go through some kind of mental health doctor (which I didnt want to do) or doctor shop for a second opinion
daniche
30 March 2015
Yes, I had a ton of problems getting the medication. The first time I went to my pharmacy, they didn't have it, so I had to wait 1 day. When I went back, my insurance refused to cover it ($300) unless I had a pre-approval sent to my insurance company from my doctor. So, I had to wait another day, call my doctor to advise him of this, and he had to call my insurance company to put a pre-authorization approval in. When I went back to the pharmacy 2 days later, it was still coming up in the system as not approved by my insurance. I went home empty-handed again and really upset.
I called my insurance company, and they stated that my doctor did send in a pre-authorization form, but that the insurance company denied me. The insurance company claims that since there is no generic made for Vyvanse, I needed to try other 'stimulant' medications that could help me before trying Vyvanse. (in other words, the insurance company didn't want to shell out the money for me to be on Vyvanse)
They also told me my doctor could appeal their decision, but it could take up to 30 days. I was so upset. I called my doctor, he advised that he could give me a coupon for a free 30-day supply that I simply would just have to bring to the pharmacy. I did that immediately and received Vyvanse. This entire back and forth process took about 2 weeks, mind you. I was given the prescription on 3/2/15 but couldn't get it filled and start taking it until 3/17/15.
It was unbelievable how hard it was to get this med. Not sure where you guys are from, but in the US, insurance companies are BS and just out to make money. I pay so much per month out of my paycheck for my health insurance and they wouldn't even allow me to have a medication that I need. Argh. Anyways, after the 30 days are up... my doctor said I can come back to his office and pick up another coupon (this one is for $15/month).
Also-my insurance company advised me that my doctor has 3 chances to appeal their decision... so he's writing a letter informing them why I need it and why they should pay.
kelbliss
2 April 2015
I had no problem getting the drug from my pharmacist, its just my doctor now. I have an appointment with a Psychiatrist that I saw at a eating disorders clinic 15 years ago, I will get her to look after my mental health from now on, she can properly asess me and medicate me properly. My doctor found me a herbal diet drug lol ... he has no clue
KittensMittens
2 April 2015
Hi daiche, I'm so sorry to hea of your troubles with Blue Cross Insur. I live in the US and I also have Blue Cros. In my experience with them, I found that
BC will not pay for ay type of weigh control related meds. Vyvanse was originally created for a ADHD/ADD diagnosis. Vyvanse has only recently been approved by the FDA to treat B.E.D. Although, it clearly specifies that this is not for obesity and/or weight loss. I suspected th BC would deny my doctor's pre-authorization request for B.E.D. I am under the care of a mental health doctor for bipolar. Bipolar and ADHD/ADD commonly occur together.
I had severe ADHD as a child and still had symptoms as n adult especially around PMS time. After taking a short, written ADD test given by my mental health doctor, I opted to go with the ADD diagnosis in lieu of the B.E.D.
You had commented that you are being treated with Wellbutrin and Prozac,
although you did not specify your diagnosis. Could you possibly have ADHD/ADD? Blue Cross immediately approved me for Vyvanse based on my ADD diagnosis. I started with 40 mg on March 28th, which is 6 days ago.
The Vyvanse exacerbated my insomnia and anxiety for the first 2 or 3 days. But, I am actually sleeping well now and the anxiety has subsided overall.
Also, I was experiencing a hung over feeling which has subsided, as well.
Only one small binge because I waited too long to eat dinner. I also am
experiencing a crash at about 5:30PM each day. I am accomplishing major
tasks. I feel best when I eat protein in small portions throughout the day.
I have been doing extensive research on a forum called "addforums.com" which is a comprehensive resource for Vyvanse. This morning is the best
I have felt since I have started treatment. I hope this information has been
helpful to you and that you find a way to continue on Vyvanse. KM
Hi kelbliss, I would be upset too if my doctor suddenly refused to prescribe
Vyvanse to me after experiencing such great success with your treatment for B.E.D. Primary GP's are not trained in mental health and don't seem to be
comfortable prescribing those prescriptions. When you see your mental health doctor, would you consider taking the ADHD/ADD written test to see if you would be diagnosed with ADHD/ADD, as this commonly occurs with
bipolar. Perhaps your mental health care provider will prescribe for you under the ADHD/ADD diagnosis. I say this because doctors both mental and
physical are not that familiar with B.E.D. at this point in time and there seems to be more loop holes to jump through to get the Vyvanse. There are
online ADHD/ADD tests online to see if you have of these symptoms prior
to your visit with your mental health care doctor. One good thing for you is
that the USD is only 76 cents on every AUD so you pay a lot less out-of-pocket for Vyvanse than we do in the US. Vyvanse seems like the perfect treatment for you since you commented that you didn't have much side effects. The best of luck to you in securing a prescription from your doctor.
You have come to far, so I hope everything is cleared for you. Please read
my comment to daniche dated 01 April 2015 for more information on Vyvanse. I can't wait to hear good news from you! Also, please check out
"addforums.com for Vyvanse information resources. KM
daniche
5 April 2015
Hi KittensMittens,
Yes, I'm currently being treated with Welbutrin and Prozac, for clinical depression. I am on fairly low doses of both. I don't have ADHD, but the Welbutrin does make things pretty cloudy for me (it's a side effect from it). Initially my doctor specified BED to BCBS, and they denied it and stated that since Vyvanse doesn't come in a generic form, I should try another stimulant medication first (one that offers a generic).
My doctor (psychiatrist) filed another appeal, but I'm not sure what he's writing on it. I'm currently waiting to see what BCBS says from this 2nd appeal. If they deny me again, my doctor has one more chance. :( Maybe if I get denied again, I should tell my doctor to advise that I have ADHD with the BED or something.
Also... you stated you're on the 40. How is that working for you? I'm on 30mg, and while it is helping me, I am wondering what 40mg would feel like. Any bad side effects?
Unconditional
3 June 2015
I am new to forum and after a lifetime of EDs that morphed into chronic daily BED, I was given Vyvanse 20mg a week ago. Since I started it, I haven't binged after binging everyday since January. I do drink coffee in the morning, and take V20mg by 10 am. Seems to last through dinner. I get really tired at 9 but that is not unusual as I was usually in a food coma by then anyway. I have hope as food has been a "nonissue" since I started taking it. I do have dry mouth but I figured the increased water drinking is good for me! I have even become focused on my projects and I am getting things done! So far so good!
Staplesc
19 July 2016
Hi,
Just wanted to see how you have been doing on Vyvanse after over a year of use? Is it still working for you? I am just looking into this drug and the reviews have all been very positive but just wondering a year later if you still agree with what you said.
Thanks!
daniche
19 July 2016
@Staplesc:
I actually am the one that started this Q&A thread over a year ago on here. I actually discontinued use of the Vyvanse because it wasn't really helping me at all. I was binging a little bit less, but still binging. My doctor prescribed 15mg of Dextroamphetamine and it immediately helped me. I don't think Vyvanse is bad by any means, and I know it's helped a ton of people on this thread, it just wasn't helping me. I did up the dose on it (I forget what my doctor upped it to) but that still wasn't having a 100% non-binging effect on me, which was why the doctor put me on the Dextro.
Has anyone else had sub par results from Vyvanse?
Overed
27 Sep 2016
Hi there, I was wondering where you get this drug in Australia. Was it prescribed by a psychiatrist, eating disorder clinic or just a regular GP? I live in New Zealand and often find that we are so behind the USA in trying drugs for eating disorders. Its great to hear that at least you can get it in Aus and someone is considering it useful for BED! Any info would be helpful, cheers!
LJ85
18 Feb 2017
Hey Kelbliss. I'm also in Australia and I'm wondering who prescribes this medication for BED, a GP or psychiatrist? Have you still found it useful? I'm really excited that this could be a solution for me!
Fondafree
8 Oct 2017
Hi, I also have experienced probably since my teens but no one had ever had that as a diagnosis in the 1970's. I am on the following meds for my bipolar:
Lamictal 150 MGM daily
Prozac ( but it is the generic) . I was on 15 and moved to 20 for last 2 weeks to help my depression
Vivanse 40 MGM daily
Propranolol - long acting 80 MGM. I was put on that because I was having panic attacks in my early 30's. So when my heart rate beat faster my PCP gave mr the blood pressure medication so I wouldn't feel a palpitation and immediately go into panic mode. No diagnosis of bipolar yet and I was very embarrassed with this anxiety and panic. All they had at that time for anxiety was Valium. I was seeing a psychologist and he couldn't prescribe, so I went to a psychiatrist. Said no to Valium and new drug out Xanax. I was given that to take as needed. In my 40's suicide attempt landed me in the hospital and finally a diagnosis of bipolar.
I got a dr that was a psychiatrist and pharmacologist . Many drugs and combinations thereof with horrible results or after 3 months it would stop being effective. Finally found something that seemed to be working. I made sure all drugs were weight neutral because when I gained weight I was more depressed. So I think it was April of this year I was given Vyvanse because I was really really bingeing. After that no cravings and lost weight and was kayaking 3 hrs a day. Even in the winter and I'm in CT. I only missed 30 days due to ice. But lately really sensitive especially when I get off the lake. And was starving. Even though I had brought fruit to stave that hunger. So once a week I was stopping at a store for Trail Mix. Who was I kidding, just because it had nuts and raisins it was the M&M's in there I wanted. I would finish the package before I got home which was5 miles or sneak it in with my kayak gear and eating handfuls of it and then leaving it and I couldn't even get 5' from it and had to go gat another handful. Now this is an everyday occurrence. It's like alcohol or drugs to me. So I was wondering if there was any kind of interaction between Vyvanse and the boost in the Prozac. Maybe the Prozac was making the Vyvanse less effective or not effective at all. The increase in the Prozac has not helped the sadness at all and with BED coming back, I am getting more depressed. Has anyone been on that long? And find it interfering with other meds you are taking?
KittensMittens
12 March 2015
Hi daniche, I joined just to ask this same question about
Vyvanse. My insurance company just approved me. Have you taken Vyvanse yet? If you have, could you explain how it makes
you feel? Thank you, KittensMittens
daniche
12 March 2015
Hi there! So after waiting for my pharmacy to actually receive the dosage that I needed (they were previously out), I am now waiting for Blue Cross to approve the medication for me. My doctor had to submit the pre-authorization form and I guess the insurance company will take up to 72 hours approve.
I'm pretty anxious to start this and will let you know how it's working. Please do the same!
KittensMittens
7 April 2015
Hi daniche,
This is my 7th day on 40 mg of Vyvanse and it is currently working beautifully for me. The first 2 or 3 days I experienced worsened anxiety and insomnia along with hang overs in the mornings. Each subsequent day the bad side effects lessen. I am still experiencing a crash with some depression at approximately 5:30 pm each evening. I try my best to push through in a positive manner by keeping very busy, but sometimes I over do it and have to rest a few minutes.
I am on loads of bipolar meds which was years of trial and error to finally find a successful cocktail to maintain a balance. My doctor is a nationally renowned psychiatrist (I always tell him that he is a genius). When he prescribed the Vyvanse, it was the first time that he scheduled me for a return visit with him in just 10 days. Even he was not sure that I would be able to tolerate the Vyvanse in combination with all the bipolar meds.
Not to mention, all the medications that I am on because of my weight gain, i.e.,
high blood pressure, borderline diabetes, high cholesterol, etc. Some bipolar meds even create an additional effect of binge eating. I have a lot of obstacles to overcome and I placed a lot of hope on the Vyvanse to help me.
Another side effect of the bipolar meds seems to induce sleep, resulting in my sleeping for 10-12 hours per night. The Vyvanse has enabled me to rise at 6:00 am and take the Vyvanse at 7:00 am and function as if I were born a morning person. Who knew?!
If Blue Corss denies your doctor's third appeal for Vyvanse, yes, please pursue the ADHD/add diagnosis. As I mentioned in an earlier comment there are online ADHD/ADD tests to help you understand the symptoms. You mentioned that you research medical journals on Vyvanse. The addforums are an excellent resource for gathering knowledge about Vyvanse.The forums explain that eventually the vast majority of those taking Vyvanse, eventually experienced a reduction in its' effectiveness. The daily duration may lessen over time. Boo. The forum also explains what a person needs to do to take care of themselves to receive the full benefits of this drug for the longest time possible. I am concerned that there is a possibility that in time it may not help my binge eating.
I slipped last night and binged because I was so over tired from working so hard for 12 hours straight on Easter Sunday. Being over tired can affect the
effectiveness of the drug. Some suggestions that I gathered on the forums/blogs were to eat small portions of protein throughout the day, drink a lot of water, get enough rest. exercise, no sugar. These all aide in getting the most out of the drug. I am also keeping a journal of the food, emotions,
activities, and calories at 1200 calories per day.
If I were doing well on 30 mgs, I would avoid building a resistance by not increasing the mgs to a higher dose if I could. I also believe in the trial and
error method to see what works best for each individual. daniche, thank you for creating this post, it has really helped me and others. KittensMittens
debinct
12 May 2015
I'm writing an article on binge eating disorders for a patient guide, and I would love to interview someone who is taking Vyvanese. Would you be interested? The guide will be distributed to doctors' offices across the country. Thank you!
debinct
ROBI48
29 Sep 2015
Vyvanse is supposed to help control binge eating disorder. What happens when you stop taking the medication? Does it come back?
Mish23mosh
13 Oct 2016
Hi all. Yes it works. For how long is very individual and varies depending upon dosage and how intense the binging was. I went on it 30 mg and within a week my desire to binge left. It was like a miracle. I lost 16 lbs. over the next few months just by not binging and eating pretty normally. After about 6 months the effects wore off and slowly the binging came back and I gained about half the weight back. My doctor raised the dose to 70 mg. and for 2-3 weeks I felt no change but finally I'm feeling less desire to binge. I find that it definitely helps without a doubt but other things need to be in place since ch as physical activity and learning about my triggers that make me binge such as stress, lack of sleep and not planning ahead for food I enjoy that's healthy. I think it's a great tool for binge eating but should not be the only thing us binge eaters should count on to heal our bodies.
Related topics
vyvanse, binge eating disorder, prescription, disorder
Further information
- Vyvanse uses and safety info
- Vyvanse prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Vyvanse (detailed)
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