Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a prescription drug that’s used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder. Vyvanse may not be safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding

Is Vyvanse safe to take during pregnancy?

If you can become pregnant, it’s important to consider whether Vyvanse is a safe option for you.

It may not be safe to take Vyvanse while you’re pregnant.

Vyvanse is an amphetamine and stimulant drug. Amphetamines are known to increase the risk of certain problems if taken during pregnancy, such as:

  • preeclampsia (narrowing of blood vessels), which can restrict blood supply to the placenta and fetus
  • increasing the risk of premature birth by stimulating contractions in the womb
  • withdrawal symptoms in newborns, such as irritability, excessive drowsiness, or difficulty feeding

Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Vyvanse if you’re pregnant or can become pregnant.

Pregnancy registry

If you take Vyvanse during pregnancy, you could consider participating in the drug’s pregnancy registry. Pregnancy registries help gather information about how certain drugs affect pregnancy. To learn more, visit the registry website or call 866-961-2388.

Can I take Vyvanse while breastfeeding?

If you’re currently breastfeeding or planning to do so, it’s important to understand the effects that Vyvanse could have on you or your child. 

It’s not recommended to take Vyvanse while you’re breastfeeding. Vyvanse may pass into breast milk and may also interfere with the production of breast milk.

Vyvanse may cause serious side effects in a child who is breastfed. Examples include serious heart and blood vessel problems, slowed growth, and fast heart rate.

Talk with your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to do so. They may recommend a different medication than Vyvanse.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.