Can you take Vyvanse and Sertraline together?

This article will discuss the concomitant use of Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) and Sertraline (Zoloft). We will discuss the potential risks of this combination and why you should never use it unless prescribed by a doctor.

Can you take Vyvanse and Sertraline together?

No, it is not generally recommended to take Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) and Sertraline (Zoloft) together. Vyvanse and Sertraline and different medications and are used for different mental health conditions. 

Vyvanse is a psychostimulant – a controlled substance that is strictly prescribed for the management and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). (1)

Vyvanse, being a schedule drug, has a high potential for addiction and abuse, and it is not typically paired with other medications that may also affect the chemicals in your brain (1). 

Sertraline, on the other hand, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is an antidepressant (2). 

Although Sertraline is not a scheduled drug, it can affect the excitatory chemicals in your brain, particularly serotonin. The concomitant use of these medications is not always a good idea and not everyone can tolerate this combination. 

What are the potential risks of taking Vyvanse and Sertraline together?

Combining Vyvanse and Sertraline can have potential risks due to their effects on brain chemicals, including:

Serotonin syndrome

Serotonin syndrome occurs when there’s an excess of serotonin in the brain. Both Vyvanse and Sertraline can increase serotonin levels, so when taken together, this risk is heightened. Symptoms may include (3):

• Excessive sweating 
• Fever with chills
• Confusion
• Restlessness and fatigue
• Headache, which often feels like your head is pounding
• Changes in blood pressure and/or temperature
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Bradycardia
• Tremors
• Shivering and goosebumps

Increased side effects of Vyvanse

Sertraline can potentiate the effects of Vyvanse, which may result in elevated heart rate, blood pressure, tiredness, nausea, and increased alertness or nervousness (4). 

This combination can be particularly concerning for individuals with cardiovascular issues or a history of substance misuse, as it may lead to overstimulation and potential health risks. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential.

Impact on mental health

Combining Vyvanse and Sertraline can affect mood regulation. Some individuals, especially those with bipolar disorder or a predisposition to manic episodes, may experience mania or hypomania when taking this combination (5). 

Symptoms can include heightened energy, impulsivity, racing thoughts, and reduced need for sleep. Individuals with a history of mood disorders must discuss the potential risks with their healthcare provider before starting this combination. 

Importance of following your doctor’s directions

It’s essential to understand the importance of following your doctor’s directions when it comes to medications like Sertraline and Vyvanse. These prescriptions aren’t handed out randomly; they are carefully considered by healthcare professionals.

Your doctor takes into account a multitude of factors: your specific symptoms, your age, your underlying health conditions, and any other medications you may be taking. This thorough evaluation helps them determine the right combination of medications.

These medications have the potential to harm some individuals, especially when used inappropriately. For instance, combining Sertraline and Vyvanse can pose risks like serotonin syndrome if not managed correctly.

This is why your doctor carefully assesses the risk-benefit ratio for you and recommends such combinations only when it’s deemed necessary and safe.

Additionally, the adjustment of doses is a critical aspect of managing these medications. The wrong dosage can trigger adverse effects or diminish the intended benefits. Your doctor’s instructions are designed to strike the right balance to ensure your well-being.

Conclusion

In this article, we have discussed the potential risks of combining Vyvanse and Sertraline. We have also discussed how important it is to follow your doctor’s directions. 

References