Dexedrine
® (
dextroamphetamine sulfate) is a prescription medication that is used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (
ADHD). It is also used to treat
narcolepsy. The medication comes in two forms: tablets and Spansules
®. Spansules are specially designed capsules that release the medication slowly over time. They can be taken just once a day, eliminating the need to take the medication at school or work.
Dexedrine is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Corporation. Generic versions are made by several manufacturers.
Dexedrine is a stimulant, although it has effects that are opposite from what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants (like caffeine) can cause hyperactivity, Dexedrine has a calming effect when used in the doses to treat ADHD. While the exact way the medication produces a calming effect is not known, it is known to affect chemicals in the brain.
Dexedrine is also licensed for
narcolepsy treatment. Narcolepsy is a condition that involves falling asleep uncontrollably and at unusual times. People who have
narcolepsy symptoms often appear paralyzed while they are sleeping and have hallucinations when falling asleep. People with this condition often fall asleep several times during the day.
In clinical studies, Dexedrine has been shown to have a calming effect on children and teenagers with
ADHD. The medication helps them to focus and sit still. It also helps them to pay better attention and to improve their behavior. Dexedrine has also been shown to have awakening effects for
people with narcolepsy.
Some general considerations for when and how to take Dexedrine include the following:
- Take the tablets by mouth. Usually, you take them two or three times daily. Take the first dose of each day first thing in the morning. Take the next doses four to six hours apart.
- Dexedrine Spansules should be taken once a day in the morning. Because they are designed to dissolve slowly over time, they should not be crushed or chewed. It is important to swallow the Spansules whole.
- You may take Dexedrine with or without food. If the medication bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- For Dexedrine to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. The medication will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of Dexedrine your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The condition being treated
- Your age
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects of Dexedrine
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Dexedrine. However, not everyone who takes it will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the drug well. If side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
The most common side effects include:
Dexedrine can cause
high blood pressure. Usually, this increase in
blood pressure is temporary and does not cause any problems. The medication can also increase the chance of
seizures and can make certain heart conditions and mental problems worse.
(Click Dexedrine Side Effects to learn more, including serious side effects you should report to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
Before taking Dexedrine, let your healthcare provider know if you (or your child) have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much Dexedrine may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Hyperactivity (trouble sitting still)
- Fast breathing
- Confusion
- Fever
- Muscle pains
- Shakiness
- Aggressiveness
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not really there).
If you happen to take too much, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Dexedrine Be Stored?
Dexedrine should be stored at in room temperature, away from moisture or heat. Both tablets and Spansules should be kept in an airtight container.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Dexedrine as scheduled, take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. If you do not remember until late in the evening, skip the dose. Taking the medication late in the evening can cause trouble sleeping at night. Do not take a double dose.
Brand-name Dexedrine tablets are no longer being made, although generic tablets (available in 5-, 10-, and 15-mg strengths) are still available. The Spansules are available in three strengths:
- Dexedrine 5 mg Spansules
- Dexedrine 10 mg Spansules
- Dexedrine 15 mg Spansules.
There is currently both brand-name and generic Dexedrine licensed for sale
(see Generic Dexedrine for more information).
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