Dexedrine® (dextroamphetamine) is a stimulant medication used to treat disorders like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, and which may also be prescribed in limited amounts to promote weight loss. Variants of this medication have existed for more than 100 years, and yet it is still often sold under its brand name. This potent medication requires careful monitoring due to its high potential for abuse, its addictive properties, and the possibility of it resulting in unpleasant side effects of an unpredictable nature. When used with caution, it may be effective in treating the conditions described above.
Like all stimulants or psychostimulants, Dexedrine® has numerous features that make it useful in treating things like ADHD or narcolepsy. It causes greater wakefulness and focus. This can help people pay more attention, or avoid the constant sleep spells that may be part of the narcoleptic’s existence. One side effect is strong appetite suppression, and this is why some people use it as a diet drug, but usually only if weight loss needs are significant.
Some of the other effects of Dexedrine® are not desirable. It can suppress appetite so strongly that people fail to get adequate nutrition and this may be a great concern when used to treat ADHD in growing children. Similarly, the benefits of creating wakefulness can go overboard and cause insomnia. Other side effects include a sense of inner restlessness or inability to keep the body and hands still, aggressive feelings, increase in anxiety, paranoid behaviors, sense of invincibility, or strong mood changes. People may also note persistent dry mouth, changes in heartbeat, dry eyes and skin, dizziness or a constant hyper feeling.
Some side effects of Dexedrine® may be eliminated by lowering doses, and it is very important for people on this medication to take no more than the prescribed dose at any time. Overdose of dextroamphetamine is extremely dangerous and needs emergency medical care. People are advised to talk with their doctors about side effects so that appropriate dose can be considered, but even then, this medication won’t be right for all people.
Dexedrine® isn’t always appropriate because certain conditions or other medications taken can conflict with it. People with high thyroid levels, heart disease, anxiety disorder and other conditions may be at risk if they take this medicine. Some antidepressants, blood pressure medicines, drugs for bipolar disorder, antipsychotics and antihistamines could also change the way Dexedrine® works. People should discuss with a physician all medicines they take, including any over the counter drugs or supplements, before accepting a prescription of this drug.
Persistent concern with stimulant medications is their tendency to become drugs of abuse. Long-term heavy abuse can result in psychotic behavior, and short-term demand for illegal use by college and high school students exists too. It’s worth noting these are prescription drugs that should only be taken by the person for whom they’re prescribed. Using this medicine in any other way or by anyone else is illegal and dangerous.
