Lisdexamfetamine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and moderate to severe eating disorders. Lisdexamfetamine is a prodrug of dextroamphetamine, a central nervous system stimulant known as d-amphetamine, covalently attached to the naturally occurring amino acid L-lysine.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed · 4 references
Lisdexamfetamine is a prodrug of dextroamphetamine, which is a noncatecholamine sympathomimetic amine with CNS stimulant activity. Dextroamphetamine is a known inhibitor of the dopamine transporter (DAT), noradrenaline transporter (NET) and vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2), with a weaker affinity for the serotonin transporter (SERT). It is also a weak monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor. Dextroamphetamine ultimately blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine into the presynaptic neuron and increases catecholamine availability in the extracellular space.
The exact mode of therapeutic action of lisdexamfetamine in ADHD and BED has not been fully elucidated; however, the clinical effects of lisdexamfetamine are believed to be linked to the pharmacological actions of dextroamphetamine.
- Primary indication
- Lisdexamfetamine is indicated for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and pediatric patients six years and older.Curator reviewed · 3 structured indications
- Formula / weight
- C15H25N3O · 263.3785 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 2020 · United States, 2007
- Brand names
Resolves to
VOBHXZCDAVEXEY-JSGCOSHPSA-NSMILESC[C@@H](CC1=CC=CC=C1)NC(=O)[C@@H](N)CCCCNWhat you can answer from here — as of September 23, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Lisdexamfetamine, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
Create a free account or log in to explore the full data card.
Create Account