Is Dextroamphetamine a Narcotic?

Dextroamphetamine belongs to the class of drugs called central nervous system stimulants. It is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy (a sleeping disorder).

Dextroamphetamine is available in three forms:

1. Oral tablet
2. Oral extended-release capsule
3. Oral solution

Dextroamphetamine is a controlled substance; its usage, sale, and purchase are controlled by the law.

A few brand names of dextroamphetamine include:

• Dexedrine
• Dexedrine Spansules
• Dextrostat
• Zenzedi
• ProCentra
• Liquadd

Dextroamphetamine is used as a part of treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.

ADHD usually occurs in childhood or adolescence and can continue into adulthood.

Symptoms of ADHD include:

• Inattention and impulsive behavior
• Inability to focus
• Distracts easily
• Hyperactivity

Dextroamphetamine helps increase the ability to focus, pay attention, and control behavior problems. Moreover, it is used to treat a sleep disorder called narcolepsy that causes extreme daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep.

• Take dextroamphetamine orally, either with or without food, two or three times a day as prescribed by your doctor. In case you have any stomach upset, take this medicine after eating.
• Do not chew, cut, or crush the capsule; swallow it whole.
• If you are using the liquid form of medicine, measure the dose properly using a measuring device or spoon that comes with the medicine. Avoid using a household spoon.
• Use this medicine regularly at the same time for optimum effect.
• Continue the medication until your healthcare provider asks you to stop.
• Do not share, give away, or sell your medicine to others. It should only be used by the person to whom it is prescribed.

Dextroamphetamine has certain side effects, such as:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Tremors
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Dry mouth
• Stomach upset
• Loss of weight
• Profuse sweating
• Extreme tiredness
• Irritability

Many people do not have severe side effects. A few severe side effects of dextroamphetamine include:

• Increased blood pressure
• Irregular heartbeat and chest pain
• Coldness, numbness, and color change in the skin
• Muscle twitching
• Behavior changes such as mood swings, depression, hallucinations, and suicidal thoughts
• Allergic reactions are very rare, but if you find any symptoms of allergic reaction such as rashes, hives, itching, or swelling, especially on the face, throat, and tongue, immediately consult your doctor

Although dextroamphetamine has many uses, sometimes this medicine may cause addiction. The risk may increase in case of substance disorders such as drug abuse and alcohol.

Be very careful before starting any medicine. Always take medicine with a doctor's prescription only.

Take some precautions  before starting dextroamphetamine, such as:

• Inform your doctor if you have allergies or any allergies to medicines. 
• Before starting this medicine, inform your doctor if you have any medical conditions such as a history of blood disorders, mental or mood disorders, heart problems, high blood pressure, hypothyroid, vision problems, seizures, personal or family history of a substance use disorder, or addiction to alcohol or drugs.
• This drug may cause dizziness; avoid driving or using any machines that need full alertness.
• Limit alcohol intake; talk to your doctor if you are taking marijuana. Alcohol and marijuana may increase the risk of dizziness.
• Children may have more side effects from this drug, especially weight loss. This medication can slow down a child's growth. Always keep track of your child's weight and height.
• Older people may be more sensitive to this drug, causing side effects such as chest pain, trouble sleeping, and weight loss.
• During pregnancy, take this medicine only when it is needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking this medicine. Some studies report that infants born to mothers who take dextroamphetamine may be born premature or have a low birth weight.
• Avoid breastfeeding if you are taking this medicine, as it may harm your baby.
• Dextroamphetamine, when taken along with some other drugs that increase serotonin, may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome or serotonin toxicity.
• This medicine is similar to amphetamines or lisdexamfetamine, so avoid using these drugs while taking dextroamphetamine.