Side Effects of Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine

About Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine

Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects associated with amphetamine and dextroamphetamine (Adderall^®). However, not everyone who takes amphetamine and dextroamphetamine will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by your or your healthcare provider.

(The side effects discussed below are not a complete list of side effects reported with the medication. Your health care provider can discuss a more complete list of side effects with you.)

Common Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine Side Effects

Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine has been thoroughly studied in clinical trials, with many people having been evaluated. In these studies, side effects occurring in the group of people taking the drug are always documented and compared to the side effects that occur in a similar group of people not taking the medicine. Based on the studies of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine XR (Adderall XR^®), a long-acting version of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, the most common side effects can include:

Loss of appetite (anorexia)
Dry mouth
Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
Headaches
Abdominal pain (or stomach pain)
Temporary increases in blood pressure
Weight loss (see Adderall and Weight Loss)
Emotional changes
Nausea, upset stomach, or vomiting
Dizziness
Diarrhea
Feeling of weakness (asthenia)
Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
Infection, including urinary tract infection (UTI)
Fever
Heartburn.

Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine can also cause a temporary slowing of growth in children. This slowing of growth is usually minimal (less that an inch and less than two pounds). In time, children usually catch up to within normal limits.

(Side Effects of Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine Continued: Page 2)