Dexedrine (Dextroamphetamine): Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Warnings
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At a glance
What it is: Dexedrine is the brand name for dextroamphetamine, a Schedule II central nervous system (CNS) stimulant.
FDA‑approved uses: ADHD in children/adolescents (6–17) and narcolepsy; it’s part of a comprehensive treatment plan (behavioral, educational, social supports).
Forms: Immediate‑release tablets (generic dextroamphetamine) and Dexedrine Spansule (extended‑release) capsules; availability of particular strengths may vary by market and time.
Key safety: Boxed warning for abuse, misuse, and addiction; contraindicated with MAOIs; monitor cardiovascular and psychiatric effects
Table of Contents
What is Dexedrine?
Dexedrine is a brand of dextroamphetamine sulfate, the “dextro” isomer of amphetamine. It enhances signaling of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain and can improve attention and wakefulness in appropriately diagnosed patients. Dexedrine is a C‑II controlled substance due to abuse potential.
Dexedrine is marketed most recognizably as Dexedrine Spansule (extended‑release capsule). Generic dextroamphetamine products exist in multiple forms (IR tablets, ER capsules). Actual on‑shelf availability can fluctuate by pharmacy and region; see “Access & availability.”
What does Dexedrine treat?
Attention‑Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children/adolescents (6–17) as part of a total treatment program that typically includes behavioral, educational, and social interventions.
Narcolepsy (excessive daytime sleepiness/cataplexy context as determined by a clinician).
Note: Adult ADHD treatment often involves other labeled stimulants (e.g., mixed amphetamine salts, lisdexamfetamine) or clinician‑directed off‑label use of dextroamphetamine. Always follow your prescriber’s guidance.
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How Dexedrine works (mechanism, onset & duration)
extroamphetamine is a sympathomimetic CNS stimulant. It promotes the release (and to a lesser degree inhibition of reuptake) of dopamine and norepinephrine in key brain regions involved in attention, executive function, and arousal.
Pharmacokinetic highlights (from FDA labeling):
IR tablets: average Tmax ≈ 3 hours.
ER (Spansule): peak concentrations around ~8 hours post‑dose; designed for gradual, prolonged release.
Average plasma half‑life ≈ 12 hours (varies by individual factors, urinary pH, and dose).
Patient‑facing summaries often describe IR coverage as part‑day and ER as once‑daily coverage, though individual response varies and regimen is tailored by prescribers.
Forms & strengths: IR vs ER (Spansule)
Immediate‑release tablets (generic dextroamphetamine): typically taken 1–3 times daily depending on clinical need and prescriber instructions.
Dexedrine Spansule extended‑release capsules: designed for once‑daily use in appropriate patients, with both prompt and gradual release components.
Important: Specific marketed strengths and brand versions can change over time. For current label details, the Dexedrine Spansule labeling lists 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg capsule strengths and provides NDCs; real‑world stock may differ by pharmacy and ongoing supply.
Dosage & administration
Always use the lowest effective dose and individualize. Avoid late evening doses to reduce insomnia.
Narcolepsy
Typical total daily doses 5–60 mg/day in divided doses; titrate based on response/tolerability.
ADHD (ages ≥6 years):
Start low (often 5 mg once or twice daily), titrate by 5 mg weekly to clinical effect; rarely necessary to exceed 40 mg/day total. Spansule may be used where once‑daily dosing is appropriate. FDA Access Data
Do not use with MAOIs (or within 14 days of MAOI use), including linezolid or IV methylene blue.
Side effects
Common effects can include decreased appetite, weight loss, insomnia, dry mouth, headache, increased heart rate, and nervousness.
Serious or urgent‑care warnings (seek medical attention or contact your clinician immediately if present):
Cardiovascular: chest pain, fainting, shortness of breath; monitor BP/HR regularly.
Psychiatric: new or worsening psychosis/mania, agitation, hallucinations.
Serotonin syndrome when combined with serotonergic agents (confusion, agitation, fever, sweating, tremor).
Peripheral vasculopathy (fingers/toes changes).
Growth effects in pediatric patients (monitor height/weight over time).
Boxed & major warnings
Abuse, misuse, and addiction: Dexedrine has a boxed warning. Misuse can lead to overdose and death, especially at high doses or via non‑prescribed routes (e.g., snorting/injecting). Clinicians should assess risk and monitor throughout treatment.
Cardiac risks: Sudden death has occurred in people with serious heart problems; screen for cardiac disease and monitor blood pressure/heart rate.
Psychiatric risks: New or worse behavior/thought problems, psychosis/mania can occur; evaluate personal/family psychiatric history.
Contraindicated with MAOIs (or recent MAOI use).
Tics/Tourette’s: Evaluate for history of tics/Tourette’s; stimulants may exacerbate tics in some patients.
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Drug interactions
MAOIs: absolute contraindication within 14 days.
Serotonergic agents (e.g., SSRIs/SNRIs, triptans): risk of serotonin syndrome; monitor if co‑used per prescriber.
Agents that acidify or alkalinize urine may alter amphetamine excretion and effects; clinicians consider these when managing therapy.
Who should not use it / use with caution
Do not use if allergic to amphetamines or if currently on/recently used an MAOI. Use caution (and disclose to your prescriber) if you or your child have:
Heart disease, structural abnormalities, or hypertension
Psychiatric history, including psychosis, bipolar disorder, or family history of suicide or depression
Seizure history
Tics or Tourette’s (personal or family history)
Pregnancy (risk not fully known) or breastfeeding (passes into milk)
Dexedrine vs. other ADHD medications
Dexedrine vs Adderall
Dexedrine is single‑ingredient dextroamphetamine; Adderall combines dextro‑ and levo‑amphetamine salts.
Many patients respond similarly; some prefer one over the other due to individual tolerability.
Dexedrine vs Vyvanse
Vyvanse is a prodrug converted to dextroamphetamine in the body; designed to offer smoother onset/offset and once‑daily coverage. Choice depends on clinical goals and response.
Dexedrine vs Zenzedi
Both contain dextroamphetamine; Zenzedi is a branded IR tablet. Dosing cadence and patient response drive selection.
Dexedrine vs Xelstrym
Xelstrym provides transdermal dextroamphetamine; route and wear‑time convenience may suit some adults.
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Access & availability
Generic ER dextroamphetamine equivalent to Dexedrine Spansule is listed with AB‑rated strengths; brand/generic availability varies over time.
Supply constraints: Dextroamphetamine ER capsules have appeared on 2025 shortage lists
Frequently asked questions about Dexedrine
What is Dexedrine used for?
Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) treats ADHD (ages 6–17) as part of a comprehensive program and narcolepsy under a clinician’s care.
Is Dexedrine the same as Adderall?
No. Dexedrine = dextroamphetamine only; Adderall = mixed amphetamine salts (dextro + levo). Responses can be similar; choice is individualized.
How long does Dexedrine last?
IR typically provides part‑day coverage; ER (Spansule) is designed for once‑daily coverage. Actual duration varies by person and dose.
Is Dexedrine still available?
Generic dextroamphetamine products (IR/ER) are available in the U.S.; specific brand strengths may fluctuate. Check your pharmacy; availability can change with shortages.
What are the common side effects?
Decreased appetite, insomnia, dry mouth, headache, nervousness, and increased heart rate are common; your clinician monitors benefits/risks.
Is Dexedrine addictive?
Dexedrine carries a boxed warning for abuse, misuse, and addiction; it’s a Schedule II medication. Clinical monitoring is essential.
Who should avoid Dexedrine?
Anyone on MAOIs (or within 14 days of use), with known allergy to amphetamines, or certain serious cardiac/psychiatric conditions per clinician’s assessment.
Can adults take Dexedrine?
FDA labeling emphasizes ADHD for ages 6–17; adult ADHD management may involve other labeled stimulants or clinician‑directed use. Follow your prescriber’s guidance.
Which is better: Dexedrine or Vyvanse?
Neither is universally “better.” Vyvanse is a prodrug converted to dextroamphetamine; differences in duration, smoothness, and tolerability drive selection.
What should I never combine with Dexedrine?
MAOIs are contraindicated; combining with serotonergic agents can raise serotonin syndrome risk; always give your clinician a full medication list.
You Can Recover — Let’s Begin
Nova Recovery Center offers comprehensive treatment programs designed to help individuals struggling with Dexedrine addiction and abuse. Our evidence-based approach addresses both the physical dependence and the underlying psychological factors that contribute to stimulant misuse. Clients begin with a safe and supportive detox process, followed by individualized treatment plans that may include behavioral therapy, relapse prevention training, and peer support. We emphasize long-term recovery, helping clients build the skills and resilience needed to maintain sobriety well beyond treatment. Our compassionate team understands the challenges of stimulant withdrawal, including fatigue, depression, and cravings, and provides continuous support throughout the recovery journey. With a focus on holistic care, we also integrate wellness activities that restore balance to the mind, body, and spirit. At Nova Recovery Center, clients gain the tools, structure, and community they need to break free from Dexedrine dependence and create a healthier future.
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