Dextroamphetamine

Dextroamphetamine is a prescription medication used to treat children and teenagers with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is also used to treat narcolepsy. Although the medication is a stimulant, it can have a calming effect in people with ADHD at the doses used to treat the condition. When used in higher doses for treating narcolepsy, dextroamphetamine causes a stimulating effect to help keep people awake. Some potential side effects of dextroamphetamine include a loss of appetite, restlessness, and dry mouth.

 

What Is Dextroamphetamine?

Dextroamphetamine sulfate (Dexedrine®) is a prescription medication that is used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is also used to treat narcolepsy. Dextroamphetamine comes in two forms: tablets and extended release capsules. Dextroamphetamine extended release capsules are specially designed capsules that release the medication slowly over time. Dextroamphetamine extended release capsules can be taken just once a day, eliminating the need to take the medication at school or work.
 
Because dextroamphetamine is a stimulant and is commonly abused, there are special rules for prescribing it (see Dexedrine: A Controlled Substance).
 
(Click What Is Dextroamphetamine Used For? for more information on uses of dextroamphetamine, including possible off-label uses of the medication.)
 

Who Makes Dextroamphetamine?

Dexedrine is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Corporation. Generic dextroamphetamine is made by several manufacturers.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;