New ADHD Drug Dosing Option Now Available

Shire’s ADHD treatment, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Vyvanse), is now available in a 10-mg titration dose at US pharmacies.

The FDA approved this seventh capsule strength of Vyvanse for ADHD patients aged 6 years and older in October 2014. The prescription medication is also available in 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg, and 70 mg dosage strengths.

“We are pleased to offer more flexible dosing and administration options for patients,” said Perry Sternberg, head of Shire’s Neuroscience Business Unit, in a press release. “The 10-mg titration option, in addition to our previous approval allowing Vyvanse capsule contents to be mixed in orange juice or yogurt, underscores our commitment to helping to meet the needs of patients with ADHD.”

Currently, Vyvanse qualifies as a federally controlled substance because it can be abused or lead to dependence. Shire recommends keeping it in a safe place to prevent misuse or abuse.

The most common side effects of the drug include anxiety, diarrhea, irritability, vomiting, and weight loss, and some serious side effects such as slowing of growth have been observed in children.

In addition to ADHD, Vyvanse is the only FDA-approved drug to treat binge-eating disorder in adults.