Urgent Concern: Potential Double Dose of Vyvanse
I am a 42-year-old woman weighing 163 pounds, and my only regular medication is 40mg of Vyvanse, which I take primarily to manage ADHD and, to some extent, my Narcolepsy type 1. Additionally, I have asthma and experience occasional tachycardia. Although I've never been diagnosed with POTS, my two children have been, and I have some past issues with a tilt-table test from the 90s that resulted in lost records. I also deal with OCD, which, while generally managed, has previously led to confusion regarding my medication regimen. Right now, I'm uncertain if I may have overdosed or if my OCD is influencing my thoughts. Given my ADHD and experiences of dissociation, my memory is sometimes unreliable. Typically, I take my medication right after returning home with my dogs around 6:30 PM, though I often end up taking it later, around 8:15 AM after driving my kids to school. As of now, it’s 8:35 AM. At 8:15, shortly after I took the medication, I had a sudden thought that perhaps I had already taken my dose for the day. Now, I find myself at a loss about what steps to take. Should I attempt to induce vomiting due to the potential risk of having ingested 80mg of Vyvanse, or would it be wiser to wait and monitor my condition before reaching out to my doctor if any unusual symptoms arise? I appreciate any guidance on this matter.
Answers (1)
6/16/2025, 12:40:58 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about a potential double dose of Vyvanse, especially given your history with ADHD, OCD, and other health considerations. Here’s a concise overview of the situation and next steps for you.
Key Points:
- Vyvanse Overdose Risk: Taking too much Vyvanse can lead to increased heart rate, anxiety, and other serious side effects. It's crucial to assess your situation carefully.
- Monitoring Symptoms: Rather than inducing vomiting, it’s safer to monitor your symptoms and take appropriate actions based on how you feel.
Explanation:
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a stimulant medication that can cause issues if taken in excess, including elevated heart rate (tachycardia), anxiety, and restlessness. Inducing vomiting is generally not recommended unless directed by a medical professional due to risks, including aspiration or worsening symptoms. It’s common for individuals with ADHD and OCD to have concerns about their medication, particularly when memory issues arise.
Immediate Steps:
-
Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of how you feel throughout the day. Pay close attention to any unusual symptoms such as:
- Increased heart rate or palpitations
- Severe anxiety or restlessness
- Changes in mood or energy levels
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Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body process the medication.
-
Avoid Additional Stimulants: Refrain from caffeine or other stimulants today, as they can exacerbate effects.
-
Contact a Healthcare Provider: If you notice concerning symptoms—especially tachycardia or severe anxiety—reaching out to a healthcare professional for advice is essential.
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Set a Medication Reminder: Consider using a pill organizer or a medication reminder app to help manage your doses in the future, reducing the chance of confusion.
Note of Reassurance:
It's likely that you will not experience significant effects from the situation—many people find themselves in similar predicaments regarding medication. Taking the time to assess your symptoms is wise, and if in doubt, do not hesitate to reach out to a doctor. Your safety is the top priority. Please take care of yourself and stay vigilant about how you're feeling throughout the day.
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