Elvanse (lisdexamfetamine)

ADHD in adults (first-line, alongside methylphenidate) and children/young people aged 6+ when methylphenidate hasn’t provided adequate benefit after a 6-week trial. Also used for binge eating disorder in some settings (off-licence in the UK).

Lisdexamfetamine is dexamfetamine bonded to the amino acid lysine. It’s pharmacologically inactive until enzymes in the blood slowly cleave off the lysine, gradually releasing active dexamfetamine. This slow, enzymatic conversion gives it a smooth, consistent effect profile without the peaks and troughs of immediate-release amphetamines. Once released, dexamfetamine increases both dopamine and noradrenaline levels in the prefrontal cortex - it promotes dopamine release from nerve terminals (rather than just blocking reuptake like methylphenidate), which can be more effective for some patients.

Adults with ADHD as a first-line option. Children 6+ after inadequate response to methylphenidate. The prodrug mechanism makes it very difficult to misuse (snorting or injecting doesn’t accelerate drug release because the body’s own enzymes are needed for activation). This makes it a good choice where diversion or misuse risk is a concern. Caution in cardiovascular disease, anxiety, tics, psychosis and substance misuse history.

Order online and we review your request. A prescriber checks your consultation form for clinical appropriateness and contacts you if anything else is needed. Once approved, your medication is dispensed and delivered to your door. Controlled drugs require additional clinical checks. We may need to contact you or your GP before dispensing.

Tracked: Tracked delivery, arrives in two working days - Free

When it arrives: Every order is sent tracked. Where this page says in post today, it goes out today. Where it says in post tomorrow, it goes out the next working day. On the rare occasions a medicine is unavailable, we will contact you to talk about timing and alternatives.

We dispense clinically equivalent generic medications where available. Prices shown are for the generic version. If you prefer the branded version, let us know in your order form and we will confirm any price difference.

Lisdexamfetamine from £74.99 per pack.

Very common: decreased appetite, insomnia, headache, dry mouth, nausea. Common: palpitations, tachycardia, weight loss, abdominal pain, mood changes (anxiety, irritability), tremor. Uncommon: psychotic symptoms (hallucinations, paranoia). Monitor: growth (in children), cardiovascular parameters, psychiatric symptoms.

Do not use in severe cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, hyperthyroidism, phaeochromocytoma, during or within 14 days of MAOIs. Use with caution in anxiety, psychosis, tics, seizure disorders, substance misuse history.

MAOIs: contraindicated (hypertensive crisis). Antihypertensives: stimulants may reduce their effect. SSRIs: caution with serotonergic effects. Alcohol: avoid.

Limited data in pregnancy. Stimulants may affect fetal growth. Use only if benefit clearly outweighs risk. Discuss with specialist before conception. Not recommended during breastfeeding.

Take once daily in the morning. Can be swallowed whole, or capsule opened and contents dissolved in water or orange juice (drink immediately). Duration 12-14 hours - the longest of any single-dose ADHD medication. Do NOT take in the afternoon (will interfere with sleep). Appetite suppression is common - eat breakfast before taking, have a substantial evening meal. Can increase anxiety in some patients (more so than methylphenidate). Weight loss is common, especially in the first few months. Schedule 2 controlled drug. Maximum 30-day supply. Dexamfetamine (Amfexa 5mg-20mg tablets) For ADHD Short-acting amphetamine. When you need flexible, targeted coverage.