Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is a CNS stimulant prodrug that is converted to dextroamphetamine in the body. It is used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents, and adults, as well as moderate-to-severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults. The exact therapeutic mechanism in these conditions is not fully understood, but it involves sympathomimetic activity in the brain.
Lisdexamfetamine is a stimulant medication used to treat ADHD and binge eating disorder by enhancing neurotransmitter activity in the brain.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N06BA12
- RxNorm
- 700810
- Generic
- Lisdexamfetamine
- Class
- atc-n06
- Brands
- Arynta, Vyvanse
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule, tablet, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Lisdexamfetamine is FDA-approved for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in patients 6 years and older, and for the treatment of moderate-to-severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults. It may also be used off-label for other conditions as determined by a healthcare provider.
As a prodrug of dextroamphetamine, lisdexamfetamine is metabolized to its active form, which acts as a sympathomimetic amine with CNS stimulant activity. It increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve attention, focus, and impulse control in ADHD, and may reduce binge eating episodes in BED.
This medication is a controlled substance with potential for abuse and dependence. Common side effects include decreased appetite, insomnia, headache, and increased blood pressure. It should not be used in patients with cardiovascular disease, hyperthyroidism, or a history of substance abuse. Dosage is individualized and typically started low, gradually titrating based on response and tolerability.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy