Can I Stop Vyvanse Cold Turkey?

Vyvanse is a prescription stimulant medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder. It contains the active drug lisdexamfetamine, which gets converted into dextroamphetamine in the body. This provides a slow steady release of the stimulant over time to control ADHD symptoms.

While Vyvanse is effective, some people consider stopping their medication for various reasons. A common question is whether you can safely stop Vyvanse suddenly, or if you need to taper off it gradually. Below we’ll explore whether it’s possible to quit Vyvanse cold turkey.

What Happens When You Quit Vyvanse Cold Turkey?

Vyvanse belongs to a class of stimulants that includes medications like Adderall, Ritalin, and Dexedrine. These drugs increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to provide a feeling of focus and motivation.

When taken daily at the same dose, your brain adjusts to the extra stimulation. If you suddenly stop the drug, your brain is left with abnormally low levels of these neurotransmitters. This chemical imbalance leads to withdrawal symptoms as your nervous system struggles to regain equilibrium.

Common Vyvanse withdrawal symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Increased appetite
• Depression
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Inability to focus/concentrate
• Restlessness
• Insomnia
• Muscle aches

These effects typically begin within 1-2 days after the last dose and can last for up to 2 weeks in some cases. The severity depends on factors like the Vyvanse dosage and length of treatment. Higher doses usually cause more intense withdrawal.

In addition to physical and emotional symptoms, ADHD symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness often return if Vyvanse was used to manage them. This can impair functioning until the brain rebalances itself.

Is Quitting Vyvanse Cold Turkey Dangerous?

While uncomfortable, quitting Vyvanse cold turkey is not generally dangerous when used as prescribed at normal doses. However, those misusing extremely high doses of Vyvanse may be at risk for more serious psychiatric effects.

Potential complications include:

• Hallucinations
• Paranoia
• Disordered thinking
• Agitation
• Seizures

These are more likely if abusing doses over 100-200 mg per day for an extended period.

Still, even people taking Vyvanse responsibly can experience significant impairment from withdrawal side effects. Many find it very difficult to quit Vyvanse suddenly due to mental slowness, emotional swings, and returning ADHD symptoms. Tapering off gradually provides a more comfortable discontinuation process.

Can You Taper Off Vyvanse?

Most doctors recommend slowly tapering Vyvanse over several weeks before fully stopping. This gives your brain more time to readjust as the dose decreases incrementally. Tapering minimizes the severity of withdrawal effects.

One possible tapering schedule involves reducing the daily Vyvanse dose by 10-20 mg each week. However, exact timing depends on the starting dose and how quickly withdrawal symptoms emerge. These are best monitored under a doctor’s supervision.

During the taper, withdrawal discomfort may still occur as the dose lowers. But tapering prevents a rapid plunge in dopamine/norepinephrine levels, avoiding intense symptoms.

Once the smallest dose is reached, the drug can be stopped completely. Any remaining withdrawal is usually mild.

Of course, not everyone requires a Vyvanse taper. Those on lower doses may tolerate quitting cold turkey with just transient, tolerable withdrawal effects. Discuss the pros and cons of tapering versus abruptly stopping with your prescribing doctor.

Who Should Not Quit Vyvanse Cold Turkey?

Certain populations are more likely to need a gradual Vyvanse taper versus suddenly stopping:

High Doses

People taking the maximum Vyvanse dose of 70 mg per day (or off-label doses above this) are at increased risk for withdrawal effects during sudden discontinuation. Tapering prevents intense symptoms.

Long-Term Treatment

Vyvanse withdrawal may be worse in those treated for many consecutive years, as the brain becomes more reliant on the drug over time. Tapering lessens this shock.

Childhood ADHD

Young people often need special care when stopping ADHD meds, as their brains are still developing. Sudden changes can impact growth and mental health.

History of Drug Abuse

Those with a history of stimulant misuse may be psychologically dependent on Vyvanse. They benefit from cautiously tapering dose to avoid drug cravings or relapse.

Binge Eating Disorder

BED patients are prone to relapse if withdrawing too rapidly from Vyvanse. Gradual tapering prevents severe returns of binge urges.

In these cases, doctors typically recommend tapering Vyvanse even if withdrawing cold turkey seems technically possible. The goal is a smooth discontinuation process to avoid setbacks.

Tips for Coming Off Vyvanse

If you and your doctor decide to stop Vyvanse, here are some tips to ease the transition:

• Taper slowly under medical supervision
• Take prescribed non-stimulants for emerging ADHD symptoms
• Stay hydrated and eat healthy foods
• Exercise to reduce restlessness
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol during withdrawal
• Try meditation, yoga, or massage for anxiety
• Ask your doctor about supplements like magnesium, omega-3s, or melatonin
• Consider counseling to develop behavioral coping strategies
• Communicate with loved ones so they understand withdrawal effects

Proper support makes discontinuing Vyvanse more comfortable even if stopping cold turkey. Withdrawal symptoms are temporary and resolve within days to weeks in most people.

The Bottom Line

While possible in some cases, most doctors don’t advise stopping Vyvanse suddenly without a taper. This can lead to greater withdrawal severity and potential setbacks. Lowering the Vyvanse dose gradually over weeks allows an easier adjustment for your brain and body.

Talk to your prescribing doctor before making any changes to Vyvanse treatment. They can help determine if you need to taper based on your situation. Work together to establish the safest discontinuation method. This ensures you avoid intense withdrawal symptoms while successfully quitting Vyvanse.