Vyvanse

Vyvanse (or lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) is a central nervous system stimulant prescription medicine that is used to treat Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) among adults and children ages 6 and older. ADHD is the most commonly studied and diagnosed psychiatric disorder in children in the U.S.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ADHD affects nearly 4.4 million U.S. children and almost 10 million adults. This condition is characterized by hyperactivity, inattentiveness, impulsivity, restlessness and irritability. Vyvanse is purported to increase attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity.

However, controversy surrounds ADHD, including how it should be diagnosed and treated. Debate, in particular, surrounds whether stimulants such as Vyvanse should be used to treat children.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the following health issues have been reported with use of stimulant medicines:

• Heart problems: Sudden death in patients who have heart problems or heart defects, stroke and heart attack in adults and increased blood pressure and heart rate.
• Mental/psychiatric problems: New or aggravated behavior and thought problems, bipolar illness and aggressive behavior or hostility in all patients; new psychotic or manic symptoms in children and teenagers, such as hallucinations or paranoia.

Furthermore, Vyvanse is a Schedule II controlled substance, which means it can be easily abused or lead to physical or psychological dependence.

Ireland-based Shire PLC reported sales of Vyvanse of $318.9 million in the U.S. in 2008. Even though the company will enjoy competition-free sales in the U.S. through February 2012, it engaged in a mobile adult ADHD self-screening initiative, called the “RoADHD Trip,” in order to “expand the market for ADHD.” The campaign featured a customized big rig truck wrapped in the “RoADHD Trip” logo that stopped at health fairs, state fairs and other public venues, provided adults with free ADHD screening and gave away free water bottles.

Contact Us Today

If you or your child has experienced side effects or complications consistent with the stimulant medicines such as Vyvanse, including heart problems or mental and psychiatric problems, contact the Pennsylvania the product liability attorneys at Munley, Munley, & Cartwright to discuss your legal options. We fight to protect the rights of consumers and patients. Call us at 877-421-9173 or use our online form for a free review and evaluation of your case.