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Medically Reviewed

The Dangers of Snorting Vyvanse

- 7 sections

Medically Reviewed: April 6, 2024

Medical Reviewer

Chief Editor

medically-verified

All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

Vyvanse is the brand name for a prescription stimulant known as lisdexamfetamine dimesylate. This medication is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder. As a prescription medication, Vyvanse can be incredibly helpful in managing certain conditions.

However, because Vyvanse is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, some people misuse it. Abusing the drug can lead to increased energy and a euphoric high that is incredibly habit-forming. If you or a loved one suffers from Vyvanse addiction, it’s time to seek help from an addiction treatment program.

Some people who misuse Vyvanse will develop a tolerance to the drug. This means the dose they are taking becomes less effective. As a result, they might look for new methods of administration that will increase their effects.

People might begin snorting Vyvanse to experience a more potent high. When this happens, they are at risk of dealing with a Vyvanse overdose, health complications from snorting a substance, and an increased risk of addiction.

What are the Effects of Vyvanse?

People who are taking Vyvanse to treat ADHD might experience benefits like increased attention and fewer impulsive behaviors. If you are taking Vyvanse to treat binge eating disorder, you will have fewer impulses to engage in problematic eating patterns.

Vyvanse can cause a variety of side effects, including:

  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches
  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Weight loss and decreased appetite

Those without a condition might experience increased energy, heightened self-confidence, and feelings of euphoria when taking Vyvanse. This is why people become addicted to Vyvanse. If you develop a substance use disorder after using a stimulant medication like Vyvanse, it’s time to seek professional help.

Can You Snort Vyvanse?

If you misuse Vyvanse, you might start by simply swallowing a pill. Over time, your body will become dependent on Vyvanse and you will develop a tolerance. This tolerance will make the dose you are accustomed to taking less effective than usual.

Increased tolerance is the main reason that people begin snorting Vyvanse. While it is possible to snort this stimulant drug, you should avoid doing so. Snorting the substance puts you at risk of a multitude of health concerns, including life-threatening overdoses.

If you feel a need to snort Vyvanse, that is a clear sign that you are struggling with a substance use disorder. You should consider asking a drug rehab program for assistance in achieving sobriety.

What are the Dangers of Snorting Vyvanse?

Vyvanse is a Schedule II controlled substance, which means it has a high potential for abuse. Many people abuse Vyvanse by snorting it, which can be incredibly dangerous. Dangers include:

Health Complications of Snorting Drugs

Snorting any type of drug can cause damage to your nose. For example, you could experience frequent nose bleeds, become more prone to infection, or even develop holes in your septum.

Since snorting Vyvanse causes tears in the nose, it can also make you more prone to infectious diseases. This is especially true if you are sharing dollar bills or straws used for snorting with other people. You could contract a disease like HIV or hepatitis.

Increased Risk of Addiction

Vyvanse is absorbed faster when you snort it, leading to a stronger and faster onset of effects. You will also experience the effects faster than if you swallowed the pill. As a result, snorting Vyvanse increases your risk of becoming addicted to it.

While snorting Vyvanse causes a faster and more potent high, the effects fade away faster. This might cause you to abuse multiple doses of Vyvanse in a row. When you are binging on a substance, your chances of becoming addicted skyrocket.

Unfortunately, stimulant addiction can be difficult to overcome. However, drug rehab programs can help you develop the tools and support you need to achieve long-lasting sobriety.

Life-Threatening Overdoses

Lastly, snorting Vyvanse increases your risk of experiencing a life-threatening overdose.

To explain, Vyvanse is a prodrug, which means it is inactive until it is metabolized in the body. When it is snorted, the drug is absorbed more rapidly into the bloodstream through your nasal tissues. Since it is absorbed rapidly and the bioavailability is increased, you have a higher risk of overdosing.

The symptoms of a Vyvanse overdose include:

  • High fever
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Seizures
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Agitation and irritability
  • Hallucinations
  • Coma
  • Sudden death

If you believe someone is experiencing a Vyvanse overdose, contact 911 immediately. The only way to ensure a person survives is to obtain emergency health care. It is important to note that you will not be prosecuted for drug charges if you call for help while someone is overdosing.

Find Help for Vyvanse Abuse and Addiction

Vyvanse addiction can be incredibly dangerous, especially if you are snorting the drug. Thankfully, drug rehab programs can provide you with the skills you need to overcome addiction. With a combination of medical detox, evidence-based therapies, and relapse prevention planning, you can achieve long-term sobriety.

At PAX Memphis, we can connect you with a top-rated drug rehab center in your area. Contact us today to get the process started and begin your recovery journey.