Can I Drink Coffee While On Vyvanse
Vyvanse is a powerful stimulant drug prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, two neurotransmitters responsible for regulating focus, motivation, and other cognitive activities. People taking Vyvanse usually experience increased energy and mental clarity, which can make it easier to focus and concentrate.
However, Vyvanse is also associated with potential side effects, such as anxiety, insomnia, dizziness, and increased heart rate. So, can one drink coffee while on Vyvanse? The answer is a qualified yes.
Dr. Robert Buckingham, head of the Neurology Department at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, explains that drinking coffee while taking Vyvanse can be beneficial depending on the individual’s particular ADHD symptoms, metabolism, and daily routine. “For some people, coffee can be an effective way to reduce the need for additional stimulant therapy. But it can also increase anxiety levels and feelings of jitteriness for others,” he says.
Dr. Buckingham notes that the effects of caffeine and Vyvanse can be amplified when combined, and therefore people should be aware of the potential of enhanced side effects. “Patients should experiment and see what works best for them, but in general, my advice is to keep coffee consumption to a minimum while taking Vyvanse,” he says.
In addition, Matt Lenz, a clinical pharmacist in Oregon, cautions that caffeine: “Can also increase Vyvanse levels in the body and make it more difficult to titrate doses effectively. Ultimately, the goal is to find the right balance that can keep the patient alert without causing anxiety or jitteriness.”
Erin Kelley, a freelance writer who has taken Vyvanse for five years, adds that people should also be mindful of the types of coffee drinks they consume. “I’ve always found that espresso drinks, which often contain more than double the amount of caffeine as regular coffee, tend to make me feel more jittery,” she says. “And I’m more likely to experience side effects like insomnia, headaches, or stomachache. I prefer to stick to the basics–a cup of black or a latte.”
Kelley also suggests that people on Vyvanse experiment with different doses and methods of drinking coffee to determine what works best for their specific needs. She says she often starts off with a small amount of instant coffee mixed in her Vyvanse dose followed by a cup of tea or black coffee at mid-day and a cup at night.
Calculating Daily Caffeine Intake
Dr. Buckingham recommends that people take into account the amount of caffeine they are consuming when consuming coffee with Vyvanse. According to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), the recommended daily limit of caffeine for adults is 400 mg–which is equivalent to 4 cups of brewed coffee.
He stresses that it’s important to calculate one’s daily intake of caffeine and break it down into smaller doses throughout the day to ensure they are not exceeding the recommended limit. For example, if someone drinks two cups of coffee in the morning, they should spread out the remaining two cups throughout the day.
Matt Lenz adds that it’s also important to be aware of the sources of caffeine that one is consuming. He explains that there are many beverages, foods, and other products that contain caffeine such as tea, chocolate, and energy drinks. Therefore, he recommends that people track their caffeine intake and be conscious of hidden sources of caffeine in their diets.
Erin Kelley also recommends that people try to limit their coffee consumption if they feel that it is interfering with their medications. She notes that there are many alternatives to coffee such as herbal tea or decaf coffee, which can still provide the energy boost without the side effects associated with caffeine.
Caffeine Sensitivity
Matt Lenz cautions that some people may be more sensitive to the effects of caffeine than others. He explains that those with preexisting conditions, such as anxiety or migraines, should be particularly wary of consuming coffee with Vyvanse.
Dr. Buckingham adds that he always advises patients to speak with their doctor before making any changes to their medications, even if they are just experimenting with different doses or types of coffee. He also recommends that those on Vyvanse keep track of their caffeine intake and only consume coffee if it’s not impacting their ability to focus and stay alert.
Erin Kelley suggests that people assess their needs objectively and be mindful of their feelings after drinking coffee. She says that if she feels too anxious or jittery after drinking coffee, she’ll immediately decrease her dosage or switch to decaf.
Ultimately, according to experts, drinking coffee while on Vyvanse is a personal decision that should be based on individual needs and sensitivities. People should talk to their doctor before making any changes to their medication, and experiment with different doses and types of beverages to find the right balance.
Medication Interaction
Dr. Buckingham notes that medications such as antacids and antibiotics can alter the efficacy of Vyvanse, so it’s important to be aware of potential interactions. He recommends that people check with their doctor to make sure their medications are compatible and that they have an accurate understanding of the potential side effects of combining drugs and caffeine.
Matt Lenz also cautions that there is potential for interactions between different types of caffeine and ADHD medications. He explains that stimulants like caffeine can increase the effectiveness of Vyvanse and other ADHD medications, while non-stimulant medications such as Atomoxetine (Strattera) may be suppressed when consumed with caffeine. He suggests that those on medications should speak to their physician before combining different drugs.
Overall, when it comes to mixing drugs and caffeine, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. As Erin Kelley explains, “Everyone’s individual body chemistry is different, and what works for one person may not be effective for another. The key is to experiment and find the best balance for your individual needs.”
Timing of Coffee Intake
Erin Kelley suggests that people who are taking Vyvanse should consider when they are consuming coffee. She explains that it’s best to have coffee in the morning or afternoon to prevent potential insomnia. Additionally, Dr. Buckingham recommends that people should not drink coffee for at least one hour before taking Vyvanse to maximize the effectiveness of the medication.
Matt Lenz adds that coffee should not replace other necessary medications, such as sleeping aids, that may be more effective in managing ADHD symptoms. He explains that coffee should only be used to supplement existing treatments and that people should not rely on coffee as a sole treatment.
Overall, it is important to understand the potential effects of combining drugs and caffeine before drinking coffee while taking Vyvanse. By doing so, people can make informed decisions with their doctor and experiment with different doses and types of coffee to find the right balance that works for their individual needs.
Coffee Alternatives for Vyvanse
For those who cannot tolerate caffeine or are looking for alternatives to coffee, Dr. Buckingham suggests that people should look for foods and beverages that are high in L-theanine, an amino acid which is a natural relaxant and has calming effects on the nervous system. He explains that L-theanine can help manage anxiety and sluggishness associated with Vyvanse, and can be found in foods such as mushrooms, green tea, and dark chocolate.
Matt Lenz suggests that people look for foods and beverages that contain natural energy-boosters like guarana, which is a plant native to South America packed with caffeine, theobromine and theophylline. He adds that guarana also contains antioxidents, which can help reduce the amount of toxins in the body.
Erin Kelley recommends that people with severe ADHD symptoms may want to consider taking supplements such as Rhodiola Rosea, which is a type of “adaptogen” that helps the body better respond to stress and anxiety. Additionally, she suggests trying natural energy-boosters like green tea, coconut water, and fresh juice.
In conclusion, for those taking Vyvanse, drinking coffee can be beneficial depending on individual needs, sensitivities, and daily routines. It is important to be aware of the potential interactions between drugs and caffeine, and to only drink coffee in moderation. For those who cannot tolerate caffeine or are looking for alternatives to coffee, there are many natural energy-boosters that can be explored.
