dextroamphetamine - oral, Dexedrine, Dextrostat
GENERIC NAME: DEXTROAMPHETAMINE - ORAL (DEX-troe-am-FET-a-meen)
BRAND NAME(S): Dexedrine, Dextrostat
Warning |
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
WARNING: Misuse or abuse of amphetamine may result in serious (possibly fatal) heart and blood pressure problems. Amphetamine-type medications can be habit-forming and should be used cautiously by people who have mental/mood disorders or a history of alcohol/drug abuse. Such people may be more likely to increase their dose of this drug unnecessarily or take this medication too often. With prolonged use or abuse of this medication, drug dependence and abnormal behavior may occur. Withdrawal symptoms may occur after stopping the drug. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. (See also How to Use section).
USES: Dextroamphetamine is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as part of a total treatment plan, including psychological, social, and other treatments. It may help to increase the ability to pay attention, concentrate, stay focused, and stop fidgeting.This drug may also be used to treat certain sleeping disorders (narcolepsy) to help you stay awake during the day. It should not be used to treat tiredness or to hold off sleep in people who do not have a sleep disorder.Dextroamphetamine is a stimulant. It is thought to work by restoring the balance of certain natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain.Dextroamphetamine is not recommended for use in children younger than 3.
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using dextroamphetamine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Take this medication with or without food, usually 1 to 3 times a day. The first dose is usually taken when you wake up in the morning. If more doses are prescribed, take them 4-6 hours apart or as directed by your doctor. Taking this medication late in the day may cause trouble sleeping (insomnia).If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.Use this medicine regularly exactly as your doctor prescribes in order to get the most benefit. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day on the days that you take it.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Your doctor may adjust your dose to find the dose that is best for you. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. If your symptoms persist or worsen, notify your doctor immediately.This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as severe tiredness, mood changes (e.g., depression), and sleep problems) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.Though it is unlikely to occur, this medication can also result in abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction/habit forming). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed. This will lessen the chances of becoming addicted.If you are taking this for ADHD, your doctor may recommend "drug holidays" when the medication is stopped for a short time to observe any changes in behavior.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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