Dextroamphetamine (Cont.)

How Does Dextroamphetamine Work?

Dextroamphetamine 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, dextroamphetamine has a calming effect when used in the proper doses to treat ADHD. While the exact way dextroamphetamine produces a calming effect is not known, it is known that the medication affects chemicals in the brain.
 
Dextroamphetamine 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.
 

Effects of Dextroamphetamine

In clinical studies, dextroamphetamine has been shown to have a calming effect in children and teenagers with ADHD. Dextroamphetamine helps them to focus and sit still. It also helps them to pay better attention and to improve their behavior. Dextroamphetamine has also been shown to have awakening effects for people with narcolepsy.
 

When and How to Take Dextroamphetamine

Some general considerations for when and how to take dextroamphetamine include the following:
 
  • Dextroamphetamine tablets should be taken by mouth, usually two or three times daily. The first dose of each day should be taken first thing in the morning. The next doses should be taken four to six hours apart.
     
  • Dextroamphetamine extended release capsules should be taken once a day in the morning. Because extended release capsules are designed to dissolve slowly over time, they should not be crushed or chewed. It is important to swallow the extended release capsules whole.
     
  • It does not matter if you take dextroamphetamine with or without food. If dextroamphetamine bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
     
  • For dextroamphetamine to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Dextroamphetamine will not work if you stop taking it.
     
(Dextroamphetamine Continued: Page 3)

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;