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Generic Name: Dextroamphetamine
Brand Name: Adderall XR. Dexedrine
What is Dextroamphetamine?
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Dextroamphetamine is a drug that is used in the treatment of diseases such as Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder, Narcolepsy and epilepsy. Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder causes difficulty in focusing or remaining quiet. Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that causes sleepiness during the daytime. Dextroamphetamine is a stimulant that alters the amount of certain natural substances in the brain.
Warning
Dextroamphetamine can be habit forming and should not be taken in larger quantities, or for longer periods, than is necessary. You should follow your doctor’s prescription strictly. Using the drug for too long a period may result in the drug losing its capacity to control the symptoms.
How to Take Dextroamphetamine
Dextroamphetamine is available as a tablet or capsule form. The capsule releases the medication gradually and sustains its effect for a longer time. The capsule form, therefore, is taken only once in a day, while the tablet may be taken 2-3 times a day. Avoid taking Dexedrine late in the day or less than five hours before bedtime as this may cause trouble with your sleep. It is very important that you follow the directions given on the prescription label exactly.
What are the side effects of Dextroamphetamine?
Use of Dextroamphetamine may leads to a number of side effects. Some of the more common side effects include restlessness, dizziness, insomnia, tremor, headache, diarrhea, constipation, palpitation, high blood pressure, impotence, intestinal disturbances and weight loss. In children, Dextroamphetamine may impede growth in height and weight.
Precautions
- Dextroamphetamine should not be taken if you are allergic to it or have had an allergic reaction to it in the past.
- Dextroamphetamine should not be taken if you are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor such as Marplan, Nardil and Parnate. This may result in increasing the blood pressure to dangerous levels. Stop use of these drugs for at least two weeks before you take Dextroamphetamine.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Dextroamphetamine taken by pregnant women may lead to premature birth or low weight of the child.
- Dextroamphetamine should be avoided during lactation, as it appears in the breast milk.
- If you drink large amounts of alcohol or take street drugs, inform your doctor about this.
- If you have been taking the drug in large quantities or for long periods of time, do not stop taking the drug suddenly as this may lead to depression and tiredness.
- Dextroamphetamine can cause loss of judgment or coordination.
- Do not take Dextroamphetamine to increase alertness or to stay awake.
What should I do if I have missed a dose?
You can take the dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, then skip the dose that you have forgotten. Do not take a double dose to compensate. Take the drug at least four or five hours before going to bed, as it may cause insomnia if taken just before bedtime.
What to do if you have taken an overdose
Overdose of Dextroamphetamine could be fatal. Symptoms of overdose include abdominal cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, aggressiveveness, delirium, hallucinations, confusion, convulsions, high fever, heightened reflexes, high or low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, nausea, panic, rapid breathing, restlessness, tremor, and coma. This may be followed by depression, fatigue and lethargy. Overdose could also be fatal.
Can I reduce the dosage?
If you experience insomnia or loss of appetite, it is possible that you may need a lower dosage. In such cases consult your doctor. In order to ascertain whether the drug can be discontinued, your doctor may temporarily take you off the drug.
When Should Dextroamphetamine be avoided?
Dextroamphetamine should be avoided if you suffer from Cardiovascular disease, hardening of the arteries, Glaucoma, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid gland or agitation.
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