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. Dexedrine comes in two forms: tablets and Spansules
®. Dexedrine Spansules are specially designed capsules that release the medication slowly over time. Dexedrine Spansules can be taken just once a day, eliminating the need to take the medication at school or work.
(Click Dexedrine Uses for more information on uses of Dexedrine, including possible off-label uses of the medication.)
Dexedrine is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Corporation.
Generic Dexedrine is 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 Dexedrine produces a calming effect is not known, it is known that Dexedrine affects 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 who have narcolepsy often fall asleep several times during the day.