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Dextroamphetamine: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects Explained
Summary or Key Points
Dextroamphetamine is a prescription medication commonly used to treat conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and other issues related to fatigue and cognitive impairment. It works by stimulating the central nervous system, which helps improve focus, attention, and wakefulness. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when taking this medication. If you have any questions or concerns, our telemedicine providers are available to assist you.
Names of Medication
US Brand Name: Dexedrine (Dextroamphetamine)
US Brand Name: Zenzedi (Dextroamphetamine)
US Brand Name: ProCentra (Dextroamphetamine)
The generic name refers to the active ingredient in the medication, listed in parentheses. Generic versions are often more affordable than brand-name options but are equally effective.
Pharmacologic Category
Amphetamines
Central Nervous System (CNS) Stimulants
Dextroamphetamine Dosage
Dextroamphetamine is prescribed for various conditions, and the dosage may vary depending on the condition being treated. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and never adjust your dose without consulting them. If you need to speak with a provider, you can schedule a telemedicine appointment with us.
Dextroamphetamine for ADHD Treatment
Adults: Start with 5 mg once or twice daily. The dose may be increased by 5 mg weekly until the desired effect is achieved. The maximum dose is 40 mg per day.
Narcolepsy
Adults: Start with 10 mg daily, divided into two doses. The dose may be increased by 10 mg weekly. The maximum dose is 60 mg per day.
Obesity
Adults: 5 mg to 10 mg taken 30 to 60 minutes before meals. This is typically a short-term treatment and should not exceed a few weeks. Consult your doctor before continuing treatment.
Depression (Off-Label Use)
Adults: 5 mg to 10 mg daily. This is an off-label use, meaning it is not FDA-approved for depression but may be prescribed by your doctor in certain cases.
Fatigue and Sleep Disorders
Adults: 5 mg to 10 mg daily, depending on the severity of symptoms. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing.
Cognitive Impairment (Off-Label Use)
Adults: 5 mg to 10 mg daily. This is an off-label use and should only be prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Off-Label Use)
Adults: 5 mg to 10 mg daily. This is an off-label use and should be monitored by your healthcare provider.
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) (Off-Label Use)
Adults: 5 mg to 10 mg daily. This is an off-label use and should be prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
Adults: Start with 5 mg once or twice daily. The dose may be increased by 5 mg weekly. The maximum dose is 40 mg per day.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Tablets: 5 mg, 10 mg
Extended-Release Capsules: 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg
Oral Solution: 5 mg/5 mL
Administration Instructions
Dextroamphetamine should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is usually taken once or twice a day, with or without food. If you are taking the extended-release form, swallow the capsule whole; do not crush or chew it. Taking the medication late in the day may cause difficulty sleeping. Always follow your doctor’s instructions, and reach out to one of our telemedicine providers if you have any questions.
Dextroamphetamine Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
Like all medications, Dextroamphetamine may cause side effects. Some are more common, while others are rare but serious. If you experience any severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Common Side Effects: These may include dry mouth, loss of appetite, weight loss, headache, dizziness, and trouble sleeping.
Less Common Side Effects: These may include increased heart rate, high blood pressure, mood changes, or nervousness.
Serious Side Effects: Rare but serious side effects include chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or hallucinations. Seek medical attention right away if you experience any of these.
Contraindications
A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a medication should not be used because it may cause harm. It is important to be aware of these situations to ensure your safety when taking any medication, including Dextroamphetamine.
Contraindications for Dextroamphetamine
Heart Disease: Dextroamphetamine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which may worsen conditions like heart disease, arrhythmias, or high blood pressure.
Severe Anxiety or Agitation: This medication can increase feelings of nervousness or anxiety, making it unsuitable for people with severe anxiety disorders.
Glaucoma: Dextroamphetamine can increase pressure in the eyes, which may worsen glaucoma.
History of Drug Abuse: Dextroamphetamine has a high potential for abuse and addiction, so it is not recommended for individuals with a history of substance abuse.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Taking Dextroamphetamine with MAOIs (a type of antidepressant) can lead to dangerous increases in blood pressure. Do not take Dextroamphetamine if you have used an MAOI in the last 14 days.
Drug to Drug Interactions with Dextroamphetamine
Certain medications can interact with Dextroamphetamine, potentially increasing side effects or reducing its effectiveness. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid any harmful interactions.
Common Drug Interactions with Dextroamphetamine
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): (e.g., Nardil [phenelzine], Parnate [tranylcypromine]) – Combining MAOIs with Dextroamphetamine can lead to dangerously high blood pressure, which can be life-threatening.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): (e.g., Prozac [fluoxetine], Zoloft [sertraline]) – These medications may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Antacids: (e.g., Tums [calcium carbonate]) – Antacids can increase the absorption of Dextroamphetamine, potentially leading to higher blood levels and an increased risk of side effects.
Beta-blockers: (e.g., Inderal [propranolol], Tenormin [atenolol]) – These medications may reduce the effectiveness of Dextroamphetamine in treating conditions like ADHD or narcolepsy.
Tricyclic Antidepressants: (e.g., Elavil [amitriptyline], Pamelor [nortriptyline]) – Combining these drugs with Dextroamphetamine may increase the risk of cardiovascular side effects, such as high blood pressure or irregular heart rhythms.
Dextroamphetamine in Pregnancy
Is it safe to take Dextroamphetamine during pregnancy? The safety of Dextroamphetamine during pregnancy is not fully established. The FDA classifies it as a Category C drug, meaning animal studies have shown some risk to the fetus, but there are no well-controlled studies in humans. Taking Dextroamphetamine while pregnant may increase the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and withdrawal symptoms in the newborn. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to explore your options.
Dextroamphetamine while Breastfeeding
Is it safe to take Dextroamphetamine while breastfeeding? Dextroamphetamine can pass into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Some studies suggest it could cause irritability, poor feeding, or sleep disturbances in the baby. If you are breastfeeding, it’s important to weigh the benefits of continuing the medication against the potential risks to your child. Speak with your healthcare provider to determine whether Dextroamphetamine is the right choice for you while breastfeeding. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you make an informed decision.
Estimated Cost of Dextroamphetamine Medication
The cost of a 30-day supply of Dextroamphetamine without insurance can vary depending on the dosage and the pharmacy. With a GoodRx coupon, the estimated cost for a 30-day supply of Dextroamphetamine (10 mg tablets) ranges from approximately $30 to $50. Prices may vary, so it’s a good idea to check with your local pharmacy or use a coupon service like GoodRx to find the best price.
Possible Alternatives to Dextroamphetamine
If Dextroamphetamine is not the right medication for you, there are alternative treatments and lifestyle changes that may help manage your condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also schedule a telemedicine consultation with one of our providers to explore these alternatives.
ADHD Medication Alternatives
Medications: Methylphenidate (Ritalin), Atomoxetine (Strattera), Guanfacine (Intuniv)
Lifestyle Changes: Behavioral therapy, structured routines, regular physical activity
Narcolepsy Treatment Alternatives
Medications: Modafinil (Provigil), Sodium oxybate (Xyrem)
Lifestyle Changes: Scheduled naps, maintaining a regular sleep schedule
Obesity Treatment Alternatives
Medications: Phentermine (Adipex-P), Orlistat (Alli)
Lifestyle Changes: Diet and exercise, behavioral counseling
Depression Treatment Alternatives
Medications: SSRIs (e.g., Zoloft, Prozac), SNRIs (e.g., Effexor, Cymbalta)
Lifestyle Changes: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), regular physical activity
Fatigue Treatment Alternatives
Medications: Modafinil (Provigil), Armodafinil (Nuvigil)
Lifestyle Changes: Improving sleep hygiene, stress management techniques
Sleep Disorders Treatment Alternatives
Medications: Zolpidem (Ambien), Eszopiclone (Lunesta)
Lifestyle Changes: Sleep hygiene, cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)
Cognitive Impairment Treatment Alternatives
Medications: Donepezil (Aricept), Memantine (Namenda)
Lifestyle Changes: Mental exercises, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treatment Alternatives
Medications: Low-dose antidepressants, pain relievers
Lifestyle Changes: Graded exercise therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) Treatment Alternatives
Medications: Fludrocortisone (Florinef), Midodrine (ProAmatine)
Lifestyle Changes: Increased salt and fluid intake, compression stockings
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) Treatment Alternatives
Medications: Methylphenidate (Ritalin), Atomoxetine (Strattera)
Lifestyle Changes: Behavioral therapy, organizational strategies
Recent Updates on Dextroamphetamine Research
Recent studies have examined the long-term effects of Dextroamphetamine, particularly in children and adolescents with ADHD. Some research suggests that long-term use of Dextroamphetamine does not significantly impact growth or increase the risk of substance abuse later in life, although further studies are needed to confirm these findings. Additionally, researchers are exploring the potential use of Dextroamphetamine in treating cognitive decline in older adults, though this research is still in its early stages. As always, consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Our telemedicine providers are available to discuss the latest research and how it may apply to your situation.
