Dexedrine Abuse

Because Dexedrine is an amphetamine, it can be habit-forming when used in doses that are higher than what your healthcare provider has recommended. People may abuse Dexedrine to get high, to lose weight, or for other reasons. The consequences of Dexedrine abuse can be extremely dangerous, and may include an irregular heartbeat, dangerously high body temperatures, and/or the potential for cardiovascular failure or seizures. Your healthcare provider can recommend treatment for an addiction to Dexedrine.

 

Overview of Dexedrine Abuse

Medications can be effective when they are used properly, but some can be addictive and dangerous when misused. Fortunately, most Americans take their medications responsibly, and addiction to prescription drugs is rare. However, in 2003, approximately 15 million Americans reported using a prescription drug for non-medical reasons at least once during the year.
 
Dexedrine® (dextroamphetamine sulfate) is a prescription medication used as a treatment for ADHD and narcolepsy. As an amphetamine, Dexedrine can be habit-forming when used in doses higher than the recommended dosage, or for extended periods of time. It is also often abused. Amphetamines, such as Dexedrine, are also known as stimulants, uppers, and beanies, among other names.
 

Reasons for Dexedrine Abuse

There are many reasons why Dexedrine is abused. One reason for Dexedrine abuse is to get "high." Stimulants, such as Dexedrine, can increase alertness, attention, and energy, which are accompanied by increases in blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. Another reason Dexedrine is abused is to lose weight (see Dexedrine and Weight Loss). Weight loss is a common side effect of dextroamphetamine, the active ingredient in Dexedrine. Dexedrine is also sometimes abused by students who do not have ADHD, but feel that the medication helps them perform better in school.
 
(Dexedrine Abuse Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;