Important: This page is general information, not medical advice. It does not recommend or prescribe any treatment. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.
Quick facts
- How it is given
- oral
- Type
- human prescription drug
- RxNorm ID
- 854830
We do not publish dosing. How much of this medicine to take, how often, and for how long depends on your age, weight, kidney and liver function, other conditions and other medicines. That is a decision for the person who prescribes or dispenses it. Follow the directions on your own pack and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
What it is used to treat
Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules are indicated for the treatment of: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults and pediatric patients 6 years and older [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] Moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules are a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant indicated for the treatment of ( 1 ): Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults and pediatric patients 6 years and older Moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED) in adults Limitations of Use : The use of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules is not recommended in pediatric patients younger than 6 years of age because they had higher plasma exposure and a higher incidence of adverse reactions (e.g., weight loss) than patients 6 years and older at the same dosage ( 5.5 , 8.4 ) Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules are not indicated for weight loss. Use of other sympathomimetic drugs for weight loss has been associated with serious cardiovascular adverse events. The safety and effectiveness of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules for the treatment of obesity have not been established ( 5.2 ) Limitations of Use: The use of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules is not recommended in pediatric patients younger than 6 years of age because they had higher plasma exposure and a higher incidence of adverse reactions (e.g., weight loss) than patients 6 years and older at the same dosage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) , Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] . Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules are not indicated or recommended for weight loss. Use of other sympathomimetic drugs for weight loss has been associated with serious cardiovascular adverse events. The safety and effectiveness of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules for the treatment of obesity have not been established [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] .
About this medicine
Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate Capsules, a CNS stimulant, are for once-a-day oral administration. The chemical designation for lisdexamfetamine dimesylate is (2S)-2,6-diamino- N -[(1 S )-1-methyl-2-phenylethyl] hexanamide dimethanesulfonate. The molecular formula is C 15 H 25 N 3 O∙(CH 4 O 3 S) 2 , which corresponds to a molecular weight of 455.60. The chemical structure is: Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate is a white to off-white powder that is soluble in water (792 mg/mL). Chemical Structure Information for Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate Capsules: Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate capsules contain 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg, and 70 mg of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (equivalent to 5.8 mg, 11.6 mg, 17.3 mg, 23.1 mg, 28.9 mg, 34.7 mg, and 40.5 mg of lisdexamfetamine) and the following inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate and microcrystalline cellulose. The capsule shells contain gelatin, titanium dioxide, shellac, black iron oxide and potassium hydroxide. In addition, the 10 mg capsule contains FD&C blue #1 and FD&C red #3; 20mg capsule contains iron oxide yellow; 30mg capsule contains FD&C red #3 and FD&C yellow #6; 40mg contains FD&C blue #1, iron oxide yellow and iron oxide black; 50mg and 60mg contains FD&C blue #1; and 70mg contains FD&C blue#1, FD&C red #3 and FD&C yellow #6.
How it works
12.1 Mechanism of Action Lisdexamfetamine is a prodrug of dextroamphetamine. Amphetamines are non-catecholamine sympathomimetic amines with CNS stimulant activity. The exact mode of therapeutic action in ADHD and BED is not known.
Who should not take it
Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules are contraindicated in patients with: Known hypersensitivity to amphetamine products or other ingredients of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules. Anaphylactic reactions, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, angioedema, and urticaria have been observed in postmarketing reports [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] . Patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or within 14 days of stopping MAOIs (including MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue), because of an increased risk of hypertensive crisis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) and Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . Known hypersensitivity to amphetamine products or other ingredients in lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules ( 4 ) Use with monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor, or within 14 days of the last MAO inhibitor dose ( 4 , 7.1 )
Warnings and cautions
Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease: Avoid use in patients with known structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious cardiac arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac disease. ( 5.2 ) Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Monitor blood pressure and pulse. ( 5.3 ) Psychiatric Adverse Reactions: Prior to initiating lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules, screen patients for risk factors for developing a manic episode. If new psychotic or manic symptoms occur, consider discontinuing lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules. ( 5.4 ) Long-Term Suppression of Growth in Pediatric Patients: Closely monitor growth (height and weight) in pediatric patients. Pediatric patients not growing or gaining height or weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted. ( 5.5 ) Peripheral Vasculopathy, including Raynaud's phenomenon: Careful observation for digital changes is necessary during lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules treatment. Further clinical evaluation (e.g., rheumatology referral) may be appropriate for patients who develop signs or symptoms of peripheral vasculopathy. ( 5.6 ) Serotonin Syndrome: Increased risk when co-administered with serotonergic agents (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, triptans), but also during overdosage situations. If it occurs, discontinue lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules and initiate supportive treatment. ( 4 , 5.7 , 10 ) Motor and Verbal Tics, and Worsening of Tourette's Syndrome: Before initiating lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules, assess the family history and clinically evaluate patients for tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Regularly monitor patients for the emergence or worsening of tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Discontinue treatment if clinically appropriate. ( 5.8 ) 5.1 Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules have a high potential for abuse and misuse. The use of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules exposes individuals to the risks of abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. […]
Reported side effects
The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Known hypersensitivity to amphetamine products or other ingredients of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules [see Contraindications (4) ] Hypertensive Crisis When Used Concomitantly with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors [see Contraindications (4) and Drug Interactions (7.1) ] Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , and Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.2 , 9.3) ] Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Psychiatric Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Long-Term Suppression of Growth in Pediatric Patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Peripheral Vasculopathy, including Raynaud's phenomenon [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Serotonin Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Motor and Verbal Tics, and Worsening of Tourette’s Syndrome [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5% and at a rate at least twice placebo) in pediatric patients ages 6 to 17 years, and/or adults with ADHD were anorexia, anxiety, decreased appetite, decreased weight, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, irritability, insomnia, nausea, upper abdominal pain, and vomiting ( 6.1 ) Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 5% and at a rate at least twice placebo) in adults with BED were dry mouth, insomnia, decreased appetite, increased heart rate, constipation, feeling jittery, and anxiety ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Elite Laboratories, Inc. at 1-888-852-6657 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. […]
Interactions with other medicines
Acidifying and Alkalinizing Agents: Agents that alter urinary pH can alter blood levels of amphetamine. Acidifying agents decrease amphetamine blood levels, while alkalinizing agents increase amphetamine blood levels. Adjust lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules dosage accordingly ( 2.6 , 7.1 ) 7.1 Drugs Having Clinically Important Interactions with Amphetamines Table 5 Drugs having clinically important interactions with amphetamines. MAO Inhibitors (MAOI) Clinical Impact MAOI antidepressants slow amphetamine metabolism, increasing amphetamines effect on the release of norepinephrine and other monoamines from adrenergic nerve endings causing headaches and other signs of hypertensive crisis. Toxic neurological effects and malignant hyperpyrexia can occur, sometimes with fatal results. Intervention Do not administer lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules during or within 14 days following the administration of MAOI [see Contraindications (4) ] . Serotonergic Drugs Clinical Impact The concomitant use of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules and serotonergic drugs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Intervention Initiate with lower doses and monitor patients for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome, particularly during lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules initiation or dosage increase. If serotonin syndrome occurs, discontinue lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules and the concomitant serotonergic drug(s) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . CYP2D6 Inhibitors Clinical Impact The concomitant use of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules and CYP2D6 inhibitors may increase the exposure of dextroamphetamine, the active metabolite of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules compared to the use of the drug alone and increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Intervention Initiate with lower doses and monitor patients for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome particularly during lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules initiation and after a dosage increase. If serotonin syndrome occurs, discontinue lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules and the CYP2D6 inhibitor [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) and Overdosage (10) ] . […]
Use in specific groups
Pregnancy : May cause fetal harm ( 8.1 ) Lactation: Breastfeeding not recommended ( 8.2 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary The limited available data from published literature and postmarketing reports on use of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules in pregnant women are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage. Adverse pregnancy outcomes, including premature delivery and low birth weight, have been seen in infants born to mothers dependent on amphetamines [see Clinical Considerations ] . In animal reproduction studies, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (a prodrug of d-amphetamine) had no effects on embryo-fetal morphological development or survival when administered orally to pregnant rats and rabbits throughout the period of organogenesis. Pre- and postnatal studies were not conducted with lisdexamfetamine dimesylate. However, amphetamine (d- to l- ratio of 3:1) administration to pregnant rats during gestation and lactation caused a decrease in pup survival and a decrease in pup body weight that correlated with a delay in developmental landmarks at clinically relevant doses of amphetamine. In addition, adverse effects on reproductive performance were observed in pups whose mothers were treated with amphetamine. Long-term neurochemical and behavioral effects have also been reported in animal developmental studies using clinically relevant doses of amphetamine [see Data ] . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Amphetamines, such as lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules, cause vasoconstriction and thereby may decrease placental perfusion. In addition, amphetamines can stimulate uterine contractions increasing the risk of premature delivery. […]
If too much is taken
Clinical Effects of Overdose Overdose of CNS stimulants is characterized by the following sympathomimetic effects: Cardiovascular effects including tachyarrhythmias, and hypertension or hypotension. Vasospasm, myocardial infarction, or aortic dissection may precipitate sudden cardiac death. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy may develop. CNS effects including psychomotor agitation, confusion, and hallucinations. Serotonin syndrome, seizures, cerebral vascular accidents, and coma may occur. Life-threatening hyperthermia (temperatures greater than 104°F) and rhabdomyolysis may develop. Overdose Management Consider the possibility of multiple drug ingestion. The pharmacokinetic profile of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsules should be considered when treating patients with overdose. Lisdexamfetamine and d-amphetamine are not dialyzable. Consider contacting the Poison Help Line (1-800-222-1222) or a medical toxicologist for additional overdose management recommendations.
Storing it safely
16.2 Storage and Handling Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP. Store at 20º to 25ºC (68º to 77ºF); excursions permitted between 15º and 30ºC (59º to 86ºF) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Before you take anything new
Tell your pharmacist or doctor about every medicine you take — including ones bought without a prescription, herbal products and supplements. Interactions are one of the most common avoidable causes of harm from medicines, and a pharmacist can check your full list in a couple of minutes.
This page is built from the openFDA record of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's approved labelling for this product, effective 22 June 2026. Label text has been shortened and reformatted for readability; safety wording has not been altered in meaning. FDA labelling describes products approved in the United States — brand names, strengths, formulations and approved uses may differ in your country. Always read the leaflet that comes with your own pack. PocketsInfo is not affiliated with, and is not endorsed by, the FDA. Retrieved 2026-07-30.