Lisdexamfetamine 40mg Chewable Tabs
Overview
What is this medicine?
How to Use This Medicine
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take your medication at the same time every day, with or without food. To minimize sleep disturbances, avoid taking this medication late in the day. Be sure to chew the medication thoroughly before swallowing.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature, protected from light and moisture. Keep it in a dry place, away from bathrooms. To ensure safety, store your medication in a secure location where children and others cannot access it. Consider using a locked box or area to store your medication. Keep all medications out of reach of pets. When disposing of unused or expired medication, do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, check with your pharmacist for guidance on proper disposal or participate in a local drug take-back program.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take exactly as prescribed, usually once daily in the morning, with or without food.
- Do not take in the afternoon or evening as it may cause sleep problems.
- Do not crush, chew, or divide the chewable tablet if not intended (though it is a chewable tablet, ensure proper administration).
- Store securely to prevent misuse or diversion.
- Avoid alcohol, as it may increase side effects.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
- Regularly monitor blood pressure and heart rate as advised by your doctor.
- Maintain a healthy diet and monitor growth in children.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Lisdexamfetamine 50mg Chewable Tabs
- Lisdexamfetamine 30mg Chewable Tabs
- Lisdexamfetamine 40mg Chewable Tabs
- Lisdexamfetamine 10mg Chewable Tabs
- Lisdexamfetamine 60mg Chewable Tabs
- Lisdexamfetamine 10mg Capsules
- Lisdexamfetamine 20mg Chewable Tabs
- Lisdexamfetamine 70mg Capsules
- Lisdexamfetamine 60mg Capsules
- Lisdexamfetamine 30mg Capsules
- Lisdexamfetamine 50mg Capsules
- Lisdexamfetamine 40mg Capsules
- Lisdexamfetamine 20mg Capsules
- Lisdexamfetamine 20mg Capsules
- Lisdexamfetamine 60mg Capsules
- Lisdexamfetamine 50mg Capsules
- Lisdexamfetamine 70mg Capsules
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Pediatric Dosing
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Hepatic Impairment:
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Distribution:
Elimination:
Pharmacodynamics
Safety & Warnings
BLACK BOX WARNING
Side Effects
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood pressure, including:
+ Severe headache
+ Dizziness
+ Passing out
+ Changes in eyesight
Fast or abnormal heartbeat
Trouble controlling body movements
Difficulty controlling sounds, such as humming, throat clearing, yelling, or making loud noises
Changes in skin color, including pale, blue, gray, purple, or red discoloration of hands, feet, or other areas
Numbness, pain, tingling, or cold feeling in hands or feet
Sores or wounds on fingers or toes
Muscle pain or weakness, dark urine, or trouble passing urine
If you have a history of heart problems or heart defects, inform your doctor, as sudden deaths have occurred in people with these conditions. Additionally, if a family member has an abnormal heartbeat or died suddenly, notify your doctor. Seek medical help immediately if you experience any signs of heart problems, such as:
Chest pain
Abnormal heartbeat
Shortness of breath
Severe dizziness or passing out
A potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome may occur if you take this medication with certain other drugs. Call your doctor right away if you experience:
Agitation
Changes in balance
Confusion
Hallucinations
Fever
Fast or abnormal heartbeat
Flushing
Muscle twitching or stiffness
Seizures
Shivering or shaking
Excessive sweating
Severe diarrhea
Upset stomach
Throwing up
Severe headache
Other Possible Side Effects
While many people may not experience side effects or only have minor ones, it's essential to be aware of the following potential side effects. If you're concerned about any of these symptoms or if they persist, contact your doctor:
Anxiety
Constipation
Diarrhea
Stomach pain
Upset stomach
Throwing up
Decreased appetite
Dry mouth
Feeling jittery
Weight loss
Trouble sleeping
Dizziness
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting (seek immediate medical attention)
- New or worsening aggression, hostility, or agitation
- New psychotic symptoms (e.g., hearing voices, believing things that are not true)
- New manic symptoms (e.g., extreme energy, racing thoughts, unusual behavior)
- Numbness, coolness, or pain in fingers or toes, or unexplained wounds on digits (Raynaud's phenomenon)
- Blurred vision
- Severe headache
- Unexplained fever, muscle stiffness, or confusion (signs of serotonin syndrome)
Before Using This Medicine
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions and situations to ensure safe treatment:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
A family history of or personal experience with:
+ Blood vessel disease
+ High blood pressure
+ Heart structure problems or other heart conditions
+ Tourette's syndrome or tics
Existing health conditions, including:
+ Glaucoma
+ Agitation
+ Anxiety
+ Overactive thyroid
Past health issues, such as:
+ Drug abuse
+ Stroke
Current medications, including:
+ Acetazolamide
+ Sodium bicarbonate
+ Certain antidepressants or Parkinson's disease medications taken within the last 14 days (e.g., isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, or rasagiline), as they may cause very high blood pressure
+ Linezolid or methylene blue
Breastfeeding status: Do not breastfeed while taking this medication.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist to ensure safe treatment. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. This drug is not intended for weight loss, and if you have any questions or concerns, you should discuss them with your doctor.
Caution with Daily Activities
Until you know how this medication affects you, avoid driving and engaging in activities that require alertness and clear vision.
Tolerance and Dependence
Long-term or high-dose use of this medication can lead to tolerance, where the drug may not work as well, and you may need higher doses to achieve the same effect. If you experience a decrease in the medication's effectiveness, contact your doctor. Do not take more than the prescribed dose. Additionally, regular use of this medication can cause dependence, and stopping it abruptly may lead to withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor before reducing the dose or stopping the medication, and follow their instructions carefully.
Heart-Related Precautions
You may need to undergo heart tests before starting this medication. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure and heart rate, and you should follow their instructions for checking these vital signs. This medication may cause high blood pressure, so it is crucial to monitor your blood pressure regularly.
Interactions with Other Medications and Lab Tests
Inform all your healthcare providers and lab personnel that you are taking this medication, as it may affect certain lab tests. Before using over-the-counter (OTC) products that may increase blood pressure, such as cough or cold medications, diet pills, stimulants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, and some natural products or aids, consult your doctor.
Severe Skin Reaction
A severe skin reaction, known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, may occur. This condition can cause severe health problems, permanent damage, and even death. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), red or irritated eyes, or sores in your mouth, throat, nose, or eyes.
Behavior and Mood Changes
This medication may cause new or worsening behavior and mood changes, including changes in thinking, anger, and hallucinations. If you or a family member have a history of mental or mood problems, such as depression or bipolar illness, or if a family member has committed suicide, inform your doctor. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience hallucinations, changes in behavior, or signs of mood changes, such as depression, thoughts of suicide, nervousness, emotional ups and downs, abnormal thinking, anxiety, or loss of interest in life.
Effects on Growth in Children and Teens
This medication may affect growth in children and teens. Regular growth checks may be necessary, and you should discuss this with your doctor. This medication is not approved for use in children under 6 years of age, as it may increase the risk of long-term weight loss in this age group.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Restlessness
- Tremor
- Hyperreflexia
- Rapid breathing
- Confusion
- Assaultiveness
- Hallucinations
- Panic states
- Hyperpyrexia
- Rhabdomyolysis
- Hypertension or hypotension
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Circulatory collapse
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Convulsions
- Coma
What to Do:
Call 911 or Poison Control immediately (1-800-222-1222). Seek emergency medical attention. Management includes symptomatic and supportive measures, including gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and sedation for CNS overstimulation.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of MAOI use (risk of hypertensive crisis)
- Linezolid (MAOI activity)
Major Interactions
- Serotonergic drugs (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, triptans, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, St. John's Wort) - risk of serotonin syndrome
- Antihypertensives (may counteract effects)
- Alkalinizing agents (e.g., sodium bicarbonate, acetazolamide) - increase dextroamphetamine levels and prolong half-life
- Acidifying agents (e.g., ascorbic acid, ammonium chloride) - decrease dextroamphetamine levels and shorten half-life
- Antipsychotics (e.g., phenothiazines, haloperidol) - may antagonize stimulant effects
Moderate Interactions
- Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) - increased cardiovascular effects
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) / H2 Blockers - minimal effect on absorption, but monitor for altered pH effects
- Opioids (e.g., meperidine) - increased risk of serotonin syndrome
Minor Interactions
- Not available
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Rationale: Stimulants can cause increases in BP and HR, which may be clinically significant.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Rationale: Consider for patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or family history of sudden cardiac death/arrhythmias.
Timing: Prior to initiation, if indicated.
Rationale: Monitor for growth suppression in pediatric patients.
Timing: Prior to initiation.
Rationale: Stimulants can exacerbate or unmask psychiatric symptoms.
Timing: Prior to initiation.
Routine Monitoring
Frequency: At each visit or at least every 3-6 months.
Target: Within normal limits for age/patient.
Action Threshold: Persistent elevation above normal range; consider dose reduction or discontinuation.
Frequency: Every 3-6 months in pediatric patients.
Target: Normal growth trajectory.
Action Threshold: Significant deviation from expected growth curve; consider drug holiday or alternative therapy.
Frequency: At each visit.
Target: Absence of new or worsening symptoms.
Action Threshold: Emergence or worsening of symptoms; consider dose adjustment or discontinuation.
Frequency: At each visit.
Target: No signs of abuse or diversion.
Action Threshold: Signs of abuse/diversion; implement appropriate management strategies.
Symptom Monitoring
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Syncope
- Palpitations
- New or worsening aggression
- Hostility
- Psychotic symptoms (e.g., hallucinations, delusions)
- Manic symptoms (e.g., elevated mood, racing thoughts, decreased need for sleep)
- Tics or Tourette's syndrome exacerbation
- Peripheral vasculopathy (e.g., Raynaud's phenomenon)
- Unexplained wounds on fingers or toes
- Blurred vision
- Severe headache
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy should be considered only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Amphetamines can cause fetal harm, including premature delivery and low birth weight. Neonates exposed to amphetamines during pregnancy may experience withdrawal symptoms.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
Lactation
Dextroamphetamine is excreted into human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants (e.g., agitation, insomnia, anorexia, reduced weight gain), advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with lisdexamfetamine.
Pediatric Use
Approved for ADHD in children 6 years and older. Monitor growth (height and weight) carefully. Long-term safety and efficacy in children under 6 years have not been established.
Geriatric Use
Clinical studies of lisdexamfetamine did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting 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.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Lisdexamfetamine is a prodrug, meaning its effects are smoother and longer-lasting compared to immediate-release amphetamines, with less potential for 'drug liking' due to slower onset.
- The chewable tablet can be chewed thoroughly and swallowed, or dispersed in water, orange juice, or yogurt and consumed immediately.
- Patients should be advised to avoid taking the medication in the late afternoon or evening to prevent insomnia.
- Careful cardiovascular assessment is crucial before initiating therapy, especially in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions.
- Monitor for signs of abuse and dependence, as lisdexamfetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance.
- Growth suppression can occur in pediatric patients; regular monitoring of height and weight is essential.
Alternative Therapies
- Methylphenidate (e.g., Concerta, Ritalin, Focalin)
- Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine (e.g., Adderall, Mydayis)
- Atomoxetine (Strattera)
- Guanfacine extended-release (Intuniv)
- Clonidine extended-release (Kapvay)
- Bupropion (Wellbutrin - off-label for ADHD)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for ADHD and BED
- Other psychotherapies for BED (e.g., Interpersonal Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy)
Cost & Coverage
General Drug Facts
This medication is accompanied by a Medication Guide, which is a valuable resource that provides important information about your treatment. Please read this guide carefully and review it again whenever you receive a refill of your medication. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.
In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount consumed, and the time it occurred. This information will help healthcare professionals provide you with the most effective treatment.