Seeking Assistance: Frightening Experiences After Starting Vyvanse
18m Ever since I began using Vyvanse, I've encountered some alarming episodes that occur randomly, particularly in the evenings. These incidents have happened about three times now, and they always seem to follow my evening showers. During these episodes, I suddenly feel incredibly lightheaded, almost as if I’m under the influence of something, coupled with an unusual sensation of pressure in my head. I’ve noticed that my limbs go numb sporadically—sometimes it’s one leg, other times it’s an arm—accompanied by tingling sensations and a racing heartbeat, despite the fact that I’m lying down and trying to relax. This overwhelming fatigue sets in, and I find myself gripped by panic, convinced I might be on the verge of dying. Earlier today, it happened again, and I began to suspect that it could be linked to my potassium levels. I consume a significant amount of potassium to reduce facial bloating (don’t ask; it’s a lookism/PSL thing) and utilize high-potassium electrolyte tablets because I've heard they can help mitigate Vyvanse’s effects. Plus, I stay well-hydrated. Initially, I feared I might have overdosed on electrolytes, which sent me into a frenzy as I guzzled water and scoured Reddit for answers, only to find similar symptoms mentioned by others. Additionally, I've noticed that my hands and feet sometimes turn a reddish or purplish hue, and my face feels uncomfortably warm. I've also been struggling with severe constipation and noticeable stomach bloating, as well as an odd difficulty in urinating—there's a lack of urgency, and I can't seem to empty my bladder completely.
Answers (1)
12/13/2025, 7:00:58 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing some very distressing symptoms since starting Vyvanse, and it's important to address these concerns with care and understanding. The sensations of lightheadedness, numbness, racing heartbeat, and panic episodes, especially after your evening showers, may be related to various factors, including potential side effects of the medication.
Explanation:
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) can stimulate the central nervous system and sometimes leads to side effects such as increased heart rate and anxiety. Your feelings of lightheadedness and numbness might be associated with dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or even anxiety reactions, particularly after taking a shower, which might relax you and make you more sensitive to these sensations. The reddish or purplish hue in your hands and feet may indicate circulation issues or a vasomotor response, while the difficulties with urination and severe constipation can also be side effects.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Start by carefully tracking your symptoms, noting when they occur, their duration, and any other triggers (such as after your showers). This can help to identify any patterns or specific causes.
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Hydration & Electrolytes: While it's great that you stay hydrated, ensure that your potassium intake is within recommended guidelines. High doses of potassium from supplements can have adverse effects. Aim for a balanced diet and consider reducing the use of electrolyte tablets unless necessary.
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Reduce Stress: Since panic often exacerbates feelings of lightheadedness and numbness, practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching exercises, especially before bedtime or after showers.
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Dietary Considerations: To address constipation and bloating, focus on increasing dietary fiber through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while also ensuring adequate fluid intake. If constipation persists, gentle over-the-counter remedies like fiber supplements may be helpful.
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Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms intensify or do not improve, it is crucial to seek medical attention to rule out any serious underlying issues. Discuss your symptoms with a professional who can evaluate the need for any adjustments in your medication or dietary changes.
By taking these steps, you can better manage your symptoms and gain a clearer understanding of what might be happening. Please remember, it is always okay to seek further help, especially when symptoms feel overwhelming. You're not alone in this, and it's important to care for your wellbeing.
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