Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesilate) is a prescription medication widely used in Australia to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children aged 6 years and above, adolescents, and adults. It is also approved for managing moderate to severe binge eating disorder when non-pharmacological treatments have been unsuccessful or are unavailable. As of 2025, Vyvanse remains a key option for many Australians seeking effective symptom control, despite ongoing challenges in supply and availability.
What Is Vyvanse and How Does It Work?
Vyvanse is a stimulant medication that works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters-dopamine and norepinephrine-in the brain. These chemicals play crucial roles in attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity regulation. Unique to Vyvanse is that it is a prodrug, meaning lisdexamfetamine itself is inactive until it is converted in the body into the active compound dextroamphetamine. This conversion results in a smoother onset and longer duration of action, typically lasting up to 14 hours, making once-daily dosing possible.
Approved Uses in Australia
- ADHD: Vyvanse is prescribed to manage symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity in children (6+ years), adolescents, and adults.
- Binge Eating Disorder: It is also indicated for adults with moderate to severe binge eating disorder when other treatments have not worked.
Dosage Strengths Available
Vyvanse is available in multiple capsule strengths in Australia: 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg, and 70 mg. This range allows healthcare providers to tailor the dose to individual patient needs, starting usually at 30 mg once daily and adjusting as necessary.
Recent Product Alert and Safety Information
In April 2025, Takeda Pharmaceuticals Australia issued a product alert regarding Vyvanse capsules due to minor typographical errors on packaging, such as incorrect wording and a misspelling of the company name. Importantly, these errors do not affect the medication’s quality or safety. Patients are advised to continue taking Vyvanse as prescribed and consult their healthcare provider if they have concerns.
Current Supply Challenges
Australia has been experiencing ongoing shortages of ADHD medications, including Vyvanse, since 2023. These shortages are due to a combination of global manufacturing delays, increased demand, and regulatory restrictions on stimulant production quotas internationally. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) monitors these shortages closely and works with suppliers to mitigate impacts.
Patients and prescribers have reported difficulties accessing certain Vyvanse strengths, with some doses intermittently unavailable. This has led to challenges in maintaining consistent treatment, which is critical for effective ADHD management.
Managing ADHD During Medication Shortages
- Consult your healthcare provider: If you experience difficulties obtaining Vyvanse, speak with your doctor or pharmacist about alternative medications or dosing strategies.
- Alternative medications: Other ADHD treatments such as dexamphetamine, methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), or non-stimulants may be considered. However, these also face supply constraints.
- Dose splitting: Some clinicians have used dose-splitting techniques (e.g., dividing contents of a capsule) to manage shortages, but this is not officially recommended by manufacturers.
- Monitoring: Regular follow-up is important to adjust treatment plans based on availability and patient response.
Access and Subsidy
As of May 2025, Vyvanse is listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in Australia, improving affordability for many patients. This subsidy helps reduce out-of-pocket expenses, making treatment more accessible.
Summary
Vyvanse remains a cornerstone medication for ADHD and binge eating disorder treatment in Australia, offering effective symptom control with once-daily dosing. Despite recent packaging alerts and ongoing supply challenges, it continues to be safe and effective when used as prescribed. Patients facing supply issues should maintain open communication with their healthcare providers to explore alternative options and ensure continuous care.