What is Dexedrine?
Dexedrine is a powerful stimulant that helps to improve focus and limit impulsive behavior. Dexedrine’s generic name is “dextroamphetamine sulfate.” In most cases, doctors prescribe Dexedrine to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) alongside other treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy or other forms of counseling. This medication can also treat other conditions—namely the sleep disorder, narcolepsy.
As a stimulant, Dexedrine carries certain risks. The Drug Enforcement Administration/Food and Drug Administration classifies the various forms of Dexedrine as Schedule II drugs in the United States. Though Dexedrine is often safe, it is always wise to consult a doctor for personalized advice about the potential risks and benefits of this medication as they might pertain to you or a loved one.
Understanding Dexedrine
Dexedrine works by promoting wakefulness. Like other amphetamines, Dexedrine stimulates the brain by interfering with certain neurotransmitters and blocking dopamine reuptake in the central nervous system, among others. These mechanisms elicit a variety of effects, many of which are beneficial for treating conditions like ADHD.
Dexedrine is similar to another common ADHD treatment, Adderall. Both drugs contain a synthetic compound amphetamine called “dextroamphetamine”—Dexedrine’s generic name. However, while Adderall contains both amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, Dexedrine contains only dextroamphetamine. Because dextroamphetamine is the stronger compound, Dexedrine is a far stronger medication than Adderall. This results in a more effective drug, but also carries more risk.
Uses and Benefits of Dexedrine
Because of its strength, Dexedrine has relatively few approved uses. However, in those areas, it is very effective.
Case studies of long-term use in people with ADHD revealed that therapeutic doses of amphetamines can improve brain development and nerve growth. These doses also dramatically reduce the core symptoms of ADHD: hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. For most people, this results in a higher quality of life and better results in academic, professional, and personal settings.
And, though Dexedrine can sometimes foster drug dependence or abuse, a review of follow-up studies found that beginning treatment with amphetamines during childhood may reduce the risk of a substance use disorder in adulthood.
Dexedrine’s other main use is treating narcolepsy. This unusual sleep disorder involves chronic sleep-wake issues, meaning those with the condition feel extremely drowsy during the day and may even suddenly fall asleep. This condition also comes with various other symptoms, like sleep paralysis or a sudden loss of muscle tone and control called cataplexy.
While there is no cure for narcolepsy, Dexedrine is often an effective tool for managing symptoms. Most amphetamines boost wakefulness, but Dexedrine is particularly good at doing so, thanks to its effects on dopamine.
Off-label, Dexedrine has also been used to treat conditions like depression and anxiety, though this is usually in very specific cases.
Amphetamines like Dexedrine can also inhibit appetite, making them a somewhat common choice as a medication for weight loss in cases of severe obesity.
Risks and Side Effects
As a powerful amphetamine, Dexedrine also carries several risks and side effects that every user should keep in mind and discuss with their doctor.
The most common and relatively minor side effects of Dexedrine include:
- Dry mouth
- Odd taste in mouth
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea and constipation
- Upset stomach
- Minor headache
- Sleeping interruptions
- Feeling nervous
- Minor hair loss
Beyond these, nearly all stimulants present a certain risk for heart-related problems. These drugs increase skeletal muscle blood flow and heart rate, putting more strain on the heart. This leads to higher blood pressure in most adults and can cause stroke or heart attack in some. If you experience a severe headache, dizziness, or any eyesight changes, contact a medical professional immediately.
A variety of other side effects may also manifest in some patients, potentially indicating an issue that requires medical attention. Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Restlessness or shakiness
- Difficult controlling movements
- Unable to get or keep an erection
- Frequent or long-lasting erections
- Changes in libido or sexual interest
- Seizures
- Numbness, pain, or tingling, particularly in the hands and feet
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Dark urine or trouble urinating
Precautions and Considerations
Before taking Dexedrine or any other amphetamine, make sure your doctor has a complete medical history. This is particularly important if you have a history of seizures, bipolar disorder, heart problems, circulation issues, or any form of psychosis or mania.
Once you start taking the drug, make sure all medical professionals know that you are taking Dexedrine. Every specialty needs to know your prescriptions to help avoid drug interactions.
Keep in regular contact with your medical team while taking Dexedrine. As a stimulant, Dexedrine can hide feelings of tiredness and fatigue, potentially resulting in serious mistakes. Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, riding a bike, or any other important task requiring mental alertness until you know how your body reacts to the drug.
Most people experience a loss of appetite when first starting Dexedrine. Remember to eat small, frequent meals or snacks to help maintain your health and nutrition. If you continue to have poor eating habits, your doctor may have some options for you.
Because it is a Schedule II drug, you will need a new prescription every time you run out of Dexedrine.
If the medication seems to lose its effectiveness or if you feel the need to take more than the prescribed amount, discuss it with your medical team. Do not change your dosage without first speaking to a medical professional.
Dosage and Administration
Generally, Dexedrine comes in tablet or capsule form. Most people take a slow-release tablet once a day. It’s usually best to take this drug in the morning, as taking it too late can lead to sleeplessness. In some cases, doctors will prescribe fast-acting tablets that patients take throughout the day. Do not take these drugs with fruit juice.
Always stick to the prescribed amount and follow the dosing schedule as closely as you can. If you ever miss a dose, you can take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time for your next dose, just skip the missed dose and try to stay on your schedule afterward.
Treatment Duration and Withdrawal
Dexedrine is typically a long-term treatment option unless the patient starts to develop side effects or signs of addiction. The specific period depends on the dosage amount and the condition being treated. However, doctors cannot prescribe enough medication for the full treatment period. Instead, they will give prescriptions for shorter periods, such as monthly, and require regular check-ups for new prescriptions.
It is possible to abuse Dexedrine and develop an addiction to the drug; and, immediately stopping Dexedrine can lead to withdrawal symptoms. If you need to stop taking Dexedrine for any reason, talk to your doctor first and discuss the safest way to do so.
Final Thoughts
Dexedrine is a powerful medication that deserves care, respect, and precaution. However, millions of people take it safely every day and experience significant improvements in their symptoms. If your doctor is recommending Dexedrine, it’s because they believe it will help you.
Whether you believe you need Dexedrine or if you are struggling with ADHD, Restore Mental Health is here for you. We also provide care for people with addiction or dependence issues.
