Lisdexamfetamine
Vyvanse
CNS Stimulant (Prodrug Amphetamine)Schedule IIGeneric available
Lisdexamfetamine is a prodrug of dextroamphetamine. Amphetamines are non-catecholamine sympathomimetic amines with CNS stimulant activity. The exact mode of therapeutic action in ADHD and BED is not known.
Compare Lisdexamfetamine →FDA-Approved Indications
- ADHD (adults; pediatric 6+)
- Moderate-to-severe binge eating disorder (adults)
Common Off-Label Uses
- Treatment-resistant depression (augmentation)
What Sets This Drug Apart
- Prodrug: d-amphetamine covalently bound to l-lysine; RBC enzyme-mediated hydrolysis yields d-amphetamine over 2-4h, providing smoother onset and offset
- Only FDA-approved drug for moderate-to-severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults — unique indication among all stimulants
- Reduced abuse liability vs immediate-release amphetamines: cannot be effectively snorted or injected due to prodrug design requiring enzymatic activation
- Duration of effect 10-14 hours from a single morning dose; no IR formulation available (prodrug design inherently extended)
- Schedule II but lowest diversion signal among amphetamine-class stimulants due to prodrug pharmacology
Boxed Warning
ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION