Warnings for Vyvanse
Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section
Precautions for Vyvanse
Abuse, Misuse, And Addiction
VYVANSE has a high potential for abuse and misuse. The use of VYVANSE exposes individuals to the risks of abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. VYVANSE can be diverted for non-medical use into illicit channels or distribution [see Drug Abuse And Dependence]. Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including VYVANSE, can result in overdose and death [see OVERDOSE], and this risk is increased with higher doses or unapproved methods of administration, such as snorting or injection.
Before prescribing VYVANSE, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks and proper disposal of any unused drug. Advise patients to store VYVANSE in a safe place, preferably locked, and instruct patients to not give VYVANSE to anyone else. Throughout VYVANSE treatment, reassess each patient’s risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction.
Risks To Patients With Serious Cardiac Disease
Sudden death has been reported in patients with structural cardiac abnormalities or other serious cardiac disease who were treated with CNS stimulants at the recommended ADHD dosage. Avoid VYVANSE use in patients with known structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious cardiac arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac disease.
Increased Blood Pressure And Heart Rate
CNS stimulants cause an increase in blood pressure (mean increase about 2 to 4 mm Hg) and heart rate (mean increase about 3 to 6 bpm). Some patients may have larger increases.
Monitor all VYVANSE-treated patients for potential tachycardia and hypertension.
Psychiatric Adverse Reactions
Exacerbation Of Pre-Existing Psychosis
CNS stimulants may exacerbate symptoms of behavior disturbance and thought disorder in patients with a pre-existing psychotic disorder.
Induction Of A Manic Episode In Patients With Bipolar Disorder
CNS stimulants may induce a manic or mixed episode. Prior to initiating VYVANSE treatment, screen patients for risk factors for developing a manic episode (e.g., comorbid or history of depressive symptoms or a family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, and depression).
New Psychotic Or Manic Symptoms
CNS stimulants, at the recommended dosage, may cause psychotic or manic symptoms (e.g., hallucinations, delusional thinking, or mania) in patients without a prior history of psychotic illness or mania. In a pooled analysis of multiple short-term, placebo-controlled studies of CNS stimulants, psychotic or manic symptoms occurred in approximately 0.1% of CNS stimulanttreated patients compared to 0% of placebo-treated patients. If such symptoms occur, consider discontinuing VYVANSE.
Long-Term Suppression Of Growth In Pediatric Patients
CNS stimulants have been associated with weight loss and slowing of growth rate in pediatric patients.
In a 4-week, placebo-controlled trial of VYVANSE in pediatric patients ages 6 to 12 years old with ADHD, there was a dose-related decrease in weight in the VYVANSE groups compared to weight gain in the placebo group. Additionally, in studies of another stimulant, there was slowing of the increase in height [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Closely monitor growth (weight and height) in VYVANSE-treated pediatric patients. Patients who are not growing or gaining height or weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted. VYVANSE is not approved for use in pediatric patients below 6 years of age [see Use In Specific Populations].
Peripheral Vasculopathy, Including Raynaud’s Phenomenon
CNS stimulants, including VYVANSE, used to treat ADHD are associated with peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon. Signs and symptoms are usually intermittent and mild; however, sequelae have included digital ulceration and/or soft tissue breakdown. Effects of peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon, were observed in postmarketing reports and at the therapeutic dosages of CNS stimulants in all age groups throughout the course of treatment. Signs and symptoms generally improved after dosage reduction or discontinuation of the CNS stimulant.
Careful observation for digital changes is necessary during VYVANSE treatment. Further clinical evaluation (e.g., rheumatology referral) may be appropriate for VYVANSE-treated patients who develop signs or symptoms of peripheral vasculopathy.
Serotonin Syndrome
Serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening reaction, may occur when amphetamines are used in combination with other drugs that affect the serotonergic neurotransmitter systems such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, tryptophan, buspirone, and St. John’s Wort [see DRUG INTERACTIONS (7.1)]. The co-administration with cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) inhibitors may also increase the risk with increased exposure to the active metabolite of VYVANSE (dextroamphetamine). In these situations, consider an alternative non-serotonergic drug or an alternative drug that does not inhibit CYP2D6 [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Serotonin syndrome symptoms may include mental status changes (e.g., agitation, hallucinations, delirium, and coma), autonomic instability (e.g., tachycardia, labile blood pressure, dizziness, diaphoresis, flushing, hyperthermia), neuromuscular symptoms (e.g., tremor, rigidity, myoclonus, hyperreflexia, incoordination), seizures, and/or gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea).
Concomitant use of VYVANSE with MAOI drugs is contraindicated [see CONTRAINDICATIONS].
Discontinue treatment with VYVANSE and any concomitant serotonergic agents immediately if symptoms of serotonin syndrome occur, and initiate supportive symptomatic treatment. If concomitant use of VYVANSE with other serotonergic drugs or CYP2D6 inhibitors is clinically warranted, initiate VYVANSE with lower doses, monitor patients for the emergence of serotonin syndrome during drug initiation or titration, and inform patients of the increased risk for serotonin syndrome.
Motor And Verbal Tics, And Worsening Of Tourette’s Syndrome
CNS stimulants, including amphetamine, have been associated with the onset or exacerbation of motor and verbal tics. Worsening of Tourette’s syndrome has also been reported [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Before initiating VYVANSE, assess the family history and clinically evaluate patients for tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Regularly monitor VYVANSE-treated patients for the emergence or worsening of tics or Tourette’s syndrome, and discontinue treatment if clinically appropriate.
Patient Counseling Information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).
Abuse, Misuse, And Addiction
Educate patients and their families about the risks of abuse, misuse, and addiction of VYVANSE, which can lead to overdose and death, and proper disposal of any unused drug [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Drug Abuse And Dependence, OVERDOSE]. Advise patients to store VYVANSE in a safe place, preferably locked, and instruct patients to not give VYVANSE to anyone else.
Risks To Patients With Serious Cardiac Disease
Advise patients that there are potential risks to patients with serious cardiac disease, including sudden death, with VYVANSE use. Instruct patients to contact a healthcare provider immediately if they develop symptoms such as exertional chest pain, unexplained syncope, or other symptoms suggestive of cardiac disease [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Increased Blood Pressure And Heart Rate
Instruct patients that VYVANSE can cause elevations of their blood pressure and pulse rate and they should be monitored for such effects.
Psychiatric Adverse Reactions
Advise patients that VYVANSE at recommended doses may cause psychotic or manic symptoms even in patients without prior history of psychotic symptoms or mania [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Long-Term Suppression Of Growth In Pediatric Patients
Advise patients that VYVANSE may cause slowing of growth including weight loss [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Circulation Problems In Fingers And Toes [Peripheral Vasculopathy, Including Raynaud’s Phenomenon]
Instruct patients beginning treatment with VYVANSE about the risk of peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon, and associated signs and symptoms: fingers or toes may feel numb, cool, painful, and/or may change from pale, to blue, to red. Instruct patients to report to their physician any new numbness, pain, skin color change, or sensitivity to temperature in fingers or toes. Instruct patients to call their physician immediately with any signs of unexplained wounds appearing on fingers or toes while taking VYVANSE. Further clinical evaluation (e.g., rheumatology referral) may be appropriate for certain patients [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Serotonin Syndrome
Caution patients about the risk of serotonin syndrome with concomitant use of VYVANSE and other serotonergic drugs including SSRIs, SNRIs, triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, tryptophan, buspirone, St. John’s Wort, and with drugs that impair metabolism of serotonin (in particular MAOIs, both those intended to treat psychiatric disorders and also others such as linezolid [see CONTRAINDICATIONS, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and DRUG INTERACTIONS]. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider or report to the emergency room if they experience signs or symptoms of serotonin syndrome.
Concomitant Medications
Advise patients to notify their physicians if they are taking, or plan to take, any prescription or over-the-counter drugs because there is a potential for interactions [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Motor And Verbal Tics, And Worsening Of Tourette’s Syndrome
Advise patients that motor and verbal tics and worsening of Tourette’s Syndrome may occur during treatment with VYVANSE. Instruct patients to notify their healthcare provider if emergence of new tics or worsening of tics or Tourette’s syndrome occurs [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Pregnancy Registry
Advise patients that there is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to VYVANSE during pregnancy [see Use In Specific Populations].
Pregnancy
Advise patients of the potential fetal effects from the use of VYVANSE during pregnancy. Advise patients to notify their healthcare provider if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with VYVANSE [see Use In Specific Populations].
Lactation
Advise women not to breastfeed if they are taking VYVANSE [see Use In Specific Populations].
Administration Instructions
- Capsules: Advise patients to take the capsules whole or empty and mix the entire contents with yogurt, water, or orange juice. Advise patients to consume the mixture immediately and not to store for future use [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
- Chewable tablets: Advise patients that chewable tablets must be chewed thoroughly before swallowing [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Nonclinical Toxicology
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, And Impairment Of Fertility
Carcinogenesis
Carcinogenicity studies of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate have not been performed. No evidence of carcinogenicity was found in studies in which d-, l-amphetamine (enantiomer ratio of 1:1) was administered to mice and rats in the diet for 2 years at doses of up to 30 mg/kg/day in male mice, 19 mg/kg/day in female mice, and 5 mg/kg/day in male and female rats.
Mutagenesis
Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate was not clastogenic in the mouse bone marrow micronucleus test in vivo and was negative when tested in the E. coli and S. typhimurium components of the Ames test and in the L5178Y/TK+/- mouse lymphoma assay in vitro.
Impairment Of Fertility
Amphetamine (d- to l-enantiomer ratio of 3:1) did not adversely affect fertility or early embryonic development in the rat at doses of up to 20 mg/kg/day.
Use In Specific Populations
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Exposure Registry
There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to ADHD medications during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the National Pregnancy Registry for Psychostimulants at 1-866-961-2388 or visiting online at https://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and researchprograms/pregnancyregistry/adhdmedications/.
Risk Summary
The limited available data from published literature and postmarketing reports on use of VYVANSE in pregnant women are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage. Adverse pregnancy outcomes, including premature delivery and low birth weight, have been seen in infants born to mothers dependent on amphetamines [see Clinical Considerations]. In animal reproduction studies, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (a prodrug of d-amphetamine) had no effects on embryo-fetal morphological development or survival when administered orally to pregnant rats and rabbits throughout the period of organogenesis. Pre- and postnatal studies were not conducted with lisdexamfetamine dimesylate. However, amphetamine (d- to l- ratio of 3:1) administration to pregnant rats during gestation and lactation caused a decrease in pup survival and a decrease in pup body weight that correlated with a delay in developmental landmarks at clinically relevant doses of amphetamine. In addition, adverse effects on reproductive performance were observed in pups whose mothers were treated with amphetamine. Long-term neurochemical and behavioral effects have also been reported in animal developmental studies using clinically relevant doses of amphetamine [see Data].
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
Amphetamines, such as VYVANSE, cause vasoconstriction and thereby may decrease placental perfusion. In addition, amphetamines can stimulate uterine contractions increasing the risk of premature delivery. Infants born to amphetamine-dependent mothers have an increased risk of premature delivery and low birth weight.
Monitor infants born to mothers taking amphetamines for symptoms of withdrawal such as feeding difficulties, irritability, agitation, and excessive drowsiness.
Data
Animal Data
Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate had no apparent effects on embryo-fetal morphological development or survival when administered orally to pregnant rats and rabbits throughout the period of organogenesis at doses of up to 40 and 120 mg/kg/day, respectively. These doses are approximately 5.5 and 33 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 70 mg/day given to adults, on a mg/m2 body surface area basis.
A study was conducted with amphetamine (d- to l- enantiomer ratio of 3:1) in which pregnant rats received daily oral doses of 2, 6, and 10 mg/kg from gestation day 6 to lactation day 20. All doses caused hyperactivity and decreased weight gain in the dams. A decrease in pup survival was seen at all doses. A decrease in pup body weight was seen at 6 and 10 mg/kg which correlated with delays in developmental landmarks, such as preputial separation and vaginal opening. Increased pup locomotor activity was seen at 10 mg/kg on day 22 postpartum but not at 5 weeks postweaning. When pups were tested for reproductive performance at maturation, gestational weight gain, number of implantations, and number of delivered pups were decreased in the group whose mothers had been given 10 mg/kg.
A number of studies from the literature in rodents indicate that prenatal or early postnatal exposure to amphetamine (d- or d, l-) at doses similar to those used clinically can result in longterm neurochemical and behavioral alterations. Reported behavioral effects include learning and memory deficits, altered locomotor activity, and changes in sexual function.
Lactation
Risk Summary
Lisdexamfetamine is a pro-drug of dextroamphetamine. Based on limited case reports in published literature, amphetamine (d-or d, l-) is present in human milk, at relative infant doses of 2% to 13.8% of the maternal weight-adjusted dosage and a milk/plasma ratio ranging between 1.9 and 7.5. There are no reports of adverse effects on the breastfed infant. Long-term neurodevelopmental effects on infants from amphetamine exposure are unknown. It is possible that large dosages of dextroamphetamine might interfere with milk production, especially in women whose lactation is not well established. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, including serious cardiovascular reactions, blood pressure and heart rate increase, suppression of growth, and peripheral vasculopathy, advise patients that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with VYVANSE.
Pediatric Use
ADHD
Safety and effectiveness of VYVANSE have been established in pediatric patients with ADHD ages 6 to 17 years [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, ADVERSE REACTIONS, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, and Clinical Studies].
Safety and effectiveness of VYVANSE have not been established in pediatric patients below the age of 6 years.
Safety and efficacy of VYVANSE were evaluated in a double-blind, randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose study in pediatric patients ages 4 to 5 years with ADHD, followed by a 1-year open-label extension study. In these studies, patients experienced elevated rates of adverse reactions, including weight loss, decreased BMI, decreased appetite, insomnia, infections (upper respiratory and nasopharyngitis), irritability, and affect lability.
With the same VYVANSE dose, mean steady state exposure of dextroamphetamine was approximately 44% higher in pediatric patients ages 4 to 5 years compared to the pediatric patients ages 6 to 11 years.
BED
Safety and effectiveness of VYVANSE have not been established in pediatric patients with BED less than 18 years of age.
Growth Suppression
Growth should be monitored during treatment with stimulants, including VYVANSE, and pediatric patients who are not growing or gaining weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Juvenile Animal Data
Studies conducted in juvenile rats and dogs at clinically relevant doses showed growth suppression that partially or fully reversed in dogs and female rats but not in male rats after a four-week drug-free recovery period.
A study was conducted in which juvenile rats received oral doses of 4, 10, or 40 mg/kg/day of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate from day 7 to day 63 of age. These doses are approximately 0.3, 0.7, and 3 times the maximum recommended human daily dose of 70 mg on a mg/m2 basis for a child. Dose-related decreases in food consumption, bodyweight gain, and crown-rump length were seen; after a four-week drug-free recovery period, bodyweights and crown-rump lengths had significantly recovered in females but were still substantially reduced in males. Time to vaginal opening was delayed in females at the highest dose, but there were no drug effects on fertility when the animals were mated beginning on day 85 of age.
In a study in which juvenile dogs received lisdexamfetamine dimesylate for 6 months beginning at 10 weeks of age, decreased bodyweight gain was seen at all doses tested (2, 5, and 12 mg/kg/day, which are approximately 0.5, 1, and 3 times the maximum recommended human daily dose on a mg/m2 basis for a child). This effect partially or fully reversed during a fourweek drug-free recovery period.
Geriatric Use
Clinical studies of VYVANSE did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience and pharmacokinetic data [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY] have not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should start at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
Renal Impairment
Due to reduced clearance in patients with severe renal impairment (GFR 15 to < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2), the maximum dose should not exceed 50 mg/day. The maximum recommended dose in ESRD (GFR < 15 mL/min/1.73 m2) patients is 30 mg/day [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Lisdexamfetamine and d-amphetamine are not dialyzable.