Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine (Cont.)

How Does Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine Work?

Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine is a stimulant, although it can have the opposite effects from what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants (like caffeine) can cause hyperactivity, when used at the doses for ADHD, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine has a calming effect. While the exact way this drug produces a calming effect is not known, it is known that amphetamine and dextroamphetamine affects chemicals in the brain. In general, this drug is used at higher, more stimulating doses when used for narcolepsy.
 

When and How to Take Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine

Some general considerations for when and how to take amphetamine and dextroamphetamine include:
 
  • Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth twice daily, although some people (especially when using amphetamine and dextroamphetamine for narcolepsy) will need to take it more often.
     
  • It does not matter if you take amphetamine and dextroamphetamine with or without food.
     
  • For amphetamine and dextroamphetamine to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. The medication will not work if you stop taking it.
     

Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine Dosing

The dose of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Your age
  • Other narcolepsy or ADHD medications you have tried
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • Other medications you may be currently taking.
     
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine Dosing for more information about dosing for this drug.)
 
(Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine Continued: Page 3)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;