What is dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Dextroamphetamine is a medication used for treating
attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. ADHD is a common
disorder among children and
teenagers that affects social, academic, and
occupational functioning. Narcolepsy also is known as excessive daytime
sleepiness, which is more common in adults. Dextroamphetamine is an amphetamine
salt. Amphetamines stimulate the brain by increasing the level of the
neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. (Neurotransmitters
are chemicals produced by nerves that are released and attach to other nearby
nerves as a means of communication among nerves.) The exact mechanism of action
in ADHD is unknown.
The FDA approved dextroamphetamine in May, 1975.
What brand names are available for dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet?
Dexedrine, Dextrostat, ProCentra, Zenzedi
Is dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
Do I need a prescription for dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet?
Yes
What are the side effects of dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet?
Side effects of dextroamphetamine include:
- Excessive stimulation
of the nervous system leading to nervousness - Restlessness
- Excitability
- Fear
- Tremor
- Convulsions (seizures)
Blood pressure and heart rate may increase, and
patients may experience
heart palpitations.
Sudden death, stroke, heart
attack, depression, manic episodes, aggressive behavior or hostility, psychosis,
growth suppression (long-term use), dependence, and withdrawal symptoms also may
occur.
Priapism defined as painful and non-painful penile erection lasting more than
4 hours, has been reported in pediatric and adult patients treated with
stimulants. The erection usually resolves when the drug is stopped. Prompt
medical attention is required in the event of suspected priapism.
What is the dosage for dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet?
ADHD
- Adults with ADHD are treated with 5 mg once daily or every 12 hours. The dose
may be increased weekly by 5 mg/day up to a maximum dose of 40 mg/day. - Children with ADHD should receive 2.5 to 5 mg daily or every 12 hours. The
dose may be increased by 2.5 to 5 mg/day weekly. The maximum dose is 40 mg
daily.
Narcolepsy
- The dose for adults and adolescents older than 12 years of age is 10 mg
daily, but the dose may be increased weekly to a maximum of 60 mg daily.
Which drugs or supplements interact with dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet?
Amphetamines should not be taken with
monoamine oxidase
(MAO) inhibitor drugs including phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate),
or with linezolid (Zyvox); use of amphetamine within 14 days of using MAO
inhibitor drugs should be avoided.
Patients receiving high blood pressure
medications may experience loss of blood pressure control with amphetamine.
Antacids may increase absorption of amphetamine salts and increase their
effectiveness and side effects.
Is dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no adequate studies of dextroamphetamine use during
pregnancy to determine its safety in pregnant females.
It is not known whether dextroamphetamine is secreted into
breast milk.
What else should I know about dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet?
What preparations of dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet are available?
Tablets: 5, 10, and 15 mg. Extended-release capsules: 5, 10,
and 15 mg.
How should I keep dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet stored?
Dextroamphetamine tablets and capsules should be stored between 20 C
and 25 C (68 F and 77 F).