Dexedrine
Generic Name: Dextroamphetamine
What is Dexedrine?
Dexedrine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant medicine used for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This medication may help increase attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in people with ADHD. Dexedrine is used as part of a total treatment program for ADHD that may include counseling or other therapies. Dexedrine is also used to treat a sleep disorder called narcolepsy.What is the most important information I should know about Dexedrine?
Dexedrine, like all amphetamines, has a high potential for abuse. Taking Dexedrine for long periods of time may lead to extreme emotional and physical dependence. Taking Dexedrine differently than how your doctor prescribes may cause sudden death and serious heart problems.There are reports of serious heart-related and mental problems in people taking Dexedrine or other related stimulant medicines. These problems include sudden death in people who have heart problems or heart defects, stroke and heart attacks in adults, increased blood pressure and heart rate, new or worsening behavior and thought problems, bipolar illness, and aggressive or hostile behavior. In addition, new psychotic symptoms have been reported. Such symptoms include hearing voices, believing things that are not true, and manic symptoms. Call your doctor right away if you or child develops signs of heart problems such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or new mental problems while taking Dexedrine.
Children should have their height and weight checked often while taking Dexedrine. This medication may be stopped if your child is not growing in height or gaining weight as expected.
Who should not take Dexedrine?
Dexedrine should not be taken if you have heart disease or hardening of the arteries, moderate to severe high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, glaucoma, or if you are very anxious, tense, or agitated, have a history of drug abuse, are taking or have taken within the past 14 days a type of medication called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).You should not take Dexedrine if you are sensitive to, allergic to, or had a reaction to other stimulant medicines.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Dexedrine?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have heart problems, heart defects, high blood pressure, or a family history of these problems; a history of mental problems or a family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, or depression; tics or Tourette's syndrome; liver or kidney problems; thyroid problems; and seizures or an abnormal brain wave test (EEG).What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.ADHD
Adults and children ≥6 years: The usual starting dose is 5 milligrams (mg) once daily. Your doctor may increase your daily dose by 5 mg every week until the lowest effective dose is achieved. Only in rare cases will it be necessary to exceed a total of 40 mg per day.
Narcolepsy
Adults and children ≥12 years: The usual starting dose is 10 mg daily. Your doctor may increase your daily dose by 10 mg every week until the lowest effective dose is achieved.
Children 6-12 years: The usual starting dose is 5 mg daily. Your doctor may increase the daily dose by 5 mg every week until the lowest effective dose is achieved.
Depending on your response to Dexedrine, the usual dose may be 5-60 mg taken once daily.
How should I take Dexedrine?
Dexedrine Spansule (sustained-release) capsules are usually taken once daily in the morning. This medication is designed to release medicine into your body throughout the day.What should I avoid while taking Dexedrine?
Taking Dexedrine longer than necessary may lead to physical and emotional dependence. Your doctor will frequently assess your response to this medication to see if it is still useful or to make sure you are receiving the lowest effective dose.Dexedrine may impair judgment or coordination. Do not drive or operate dangerous machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Avoid taking Dexedrine late in the evening to prevent insomnia.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Dexedrine?
If Dexedrine is taken with certain foods or drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Dexedrine with the following: antacids, antidepressants (including MAOIs), blood pressure medicines, chlorpromazine, ethosuximide, haloperidol, lithium carbonate, meperidine, methenamine, norepinephrine, propoxyphene, seizure medicinesWhat are the possible side effects of Dexedrine?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: slowed growth (height and weight) in children, seizures (mainly in patients with a history of seizures), eyesight changes or blurred vision, fast heart beat, decreased appetite, tremors, headache, trouble sleeping, dizziness, stomach upset, weight loss, dry mouth
Can I receive Dexedrine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Taking Dexedrine while pregnant may increase the risk of birth defects, premature delivery, and low birth weight, and therefore should be avoided. Amphetamines such as Dexedrine are passed into breast milk. Do not breastfeed while taking Dexedrine. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Dexedrine?
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time.How should I store Dexedrine?
Store in a safe place at room temperature away from light.
I'm Kristen Dore, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
