Vyvance and breastfeeding

[Anniekinsd]

I have a 2 week old baby and have been diagnosed with ADHD for about 2 years now. I was on vyvance before my pregnancy, but discontinued it during the pregnancy. I would like to continue with the medication but am worried about the breastfeeding and exposure to my baby.

Thank you

[mmilla]

Dear Anniekinsd,
Vyvanse is a potent and long acting amphetamine. Although it is not contraindicated while breastfeeding, caution is advised when using this drug especially in a young child. It can cause nervousness, anorexia, insomnia, and hyperexcitability. It is important to monitor the infant for poor weight gain and poor sleeping patterns. A more suitable alternative is Ritalin (Methylphenidate) since it has a shorter half-life and has been studied more. I hope this is helpful. For more information, call us at (806)352-2519.
Maria Milla, MD
InfantRisk Center

[admin]

EEWB:

Adderall is just a prolonged release formulation of dextroamphetamine. The studies show that about 1.8 to 6.9% of the maternal dose will get to the infant daily. If you use this product, you'll have to watch the infant closely for excitement, insomnia, and poor appetite. Just expect that some of this medication is going to be ingested by the infant.

Tom Hale Ph.D.