Dextroamphetamine, often known as dexdrine, is a psychostimulant medication used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Like other stimulant medications for ADHD, dexedrine operates on the central nervous system and increases brain chemicals (neurotransmitters), including dopamine and norepinephrine. Elevated concentrations of these neurotransmitters improve focus and attention while reducing impulsive and hyperactive behavior in ADHD patients.

This article will cover the usage of Dexedrine for ADHD and how it differs from other ADHD medications.

How to Take Dexedrine for ADHD

The drug known by the brand name Dexedrine contains the stimulant dextroamphetamine. Dexedrine's generic name is dextroamphetamine.Dexedrine Spansule capsules and short-acting tablets are available in generic form.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved both versions of Dexedrine for the treatment of ADHD in children six years of age and older.

Forms and Doses

Dexedrine Spansule tablets and capsules are the drug's accessible forms. The duration of action for dexedrine tablets is four to six hours. They are usually taken twice or three times a day. Dexedrine Spansule with extended-release typically lasts eight to twelve hours. When a capsule is swallowed, the first dose is delivered right away, and the remaining medication is released gradually over time. It is only taken once every day.

Short-acting Dexedrine pills come in two strengths: 5 mg and 10 mg. Dexedrine Spansule comes in dosage forms of 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg capsules.

Your provider will work closely with you to find the proper dosage for you or your child. Usually, the lowest dose is used first. The dosage can be raised by 5 mg increments until a dose is found that works for ADHD symptoms. Dextedrine dosages range from 5 mg to 40 mg.

How to Store It

Keep your medication in a safe place, away from children and animals. Store it in a cool, dry place at room temperature (68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit) and away from direct sunlight.

Why Is Dexedrine Not Prescribed Anymore?

Still, it is prescribed for ADHD less often than more modern drugs like dexmededrine. Dextmededrine is among the first stimulant medications. Here is a quick rundown of its history:

1930s: In the mid-1930s, Smith, Kline French, an American pharmaceutical company, began selling dexexedrine.

1960s: The US implemented a law requiring all pharmaceuticals to be safe and effective before they could be sold. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) launched the Drug Efficacy Study Implementation (DESI) program, which evaluated all drugs that were available for sale before 1962. During the DESI procedure, dexedrine was approved for the treatment of narcolepsy and "hyperkinetic disorder of childhood". This was the name given to the condition that we now know as ADHD.

In 1976, Dexedrine Spansule was approved. It was available before this date even though it wasn't formally approved by the FDA in accordance with the most recent approval standards.

1990s: In the early 1990s, a number of companies started manufacturing dextroamphetamine.

These days, prescriptions for more modern stimulant medications like Ritalin, Adderall, and Vyvanse are more common than those for Dexedrine.

It is not usually the case that Dexedrine users switch to a more modern ADHD medicine. In the event that the more recent ADHD medication you tried didn't alleviate your problems, your physician may suggest Dexedrine.

Dexedrine vs. Other ADHD Meds

Methylphenidate and amphetamine are the two forms of stimulants used to treat ADHD.

Dexedrine, Adderall, and Vyvanse are examples of amphetamines.

Ritalin and Concerta are pharmaceuticals in the methylphenidate class.

Additionally, non-stimulant medications such as Intuniv, Kapvay, Qulbree, and Strattera are used to treat ADHD. These drugs don't include dextroamphetamine or any other stimulant.

Is Dexedrine Equivalent to Adderall?

Although they are both ADHD drugs, Adderall and Dexedrine cannot be used interchangeably. Adderall also contains amphetamine, whereas Dexedrine only contains dextroamphetamine.

Adderall and Dexedrine have similar risks, side effects, and dose recommendations. However, since Dexedrine only contains the strongest ingredient, it might be a more effective medication than Adderall.

Is Dexedrine the Same as Vyvanse?

Lisdexamfetamine is the component of vyvanse. The component becomes dextroamphetamine after the medication is metabolized by the body, which usually occurs one to two hours after oral administration.

Because vyvanse doesn't cause the body to shock or surge as it starts to work, it is commonly referred to as a "smooth" ADHD medication. There might be less of a pharmacological rebound as the medication's effects start to wear off.

Since vyvanse cannot be injected or inhaled to get high, it is also less likely to be abused than other stimulants.

Is Dexedrine Stronger Than Concerta?

Concerta isn't necessarily more effective than other ADHD medications. Dexedrine contains dextroamphetamine, whereas it contains the medication methylphenidate. Ritalin belongs to the same category as methylphenidate.

Adults with ADHD and children aged six and older are eligible to use Ritalin and Concerta. The Concerta is offered as an extended-release tablet. There are two types of Ritalin: extended-release and short-acting. Both come in generic and brand-name versions.

If you take a methylphenidate medication for ADHD, your experience can be different from taking Dexedrine.

For instance, medical professionals Edward Hallowell and John Ratey write in their book Answers to Distraction that Ritalin can increase motivation, energy, and alertness while Dexedrine balances mood, aids in focus, and appears to quiet restlessness.

Which ADHD Med Is Right for Me or My Child?

Each person's experience with the advantages and disadvantages of ADHD medication is unique. To determine which medication or dosage best suits your symptoms, you or your child may need to try a few different ones. Your healthcare practitioner can help you weigh your alternatives and ensure that you are aware of the advantages and disadvantages of each ADHD medication.

Dexedrine Side Effects

Typical Dexedrine side effects include the following:

lightheadedness

dry mouth

rapid heart rate

Headaches

Lack of sleep

appetite decline

Shivers

upset stomach

Loss of weight

Does Dexedrine Slow a Child’s Growth?

Stimulants were once thought to have the potential to stunt a child's growth.

Russell Barkley, PhD, explains in his book Taking Charge of ADHD that children on stimulant medicine have far lower risk of sluggish or stunted growth than was thought in the 1970s when the drug was more widely used.

When it was first believed that ADHD stimulants could impair growth, parents were encouraged to give their kids "medication holidays." This meant that a child would take their medication as directed during the academic year, with a possible interruption on weekends and school vacations.

These days, the benefits of ADHD medicine are well acknowledged, and there is less worry about it impacting growth. Children with ADHD who use stimulant medicine do better academically, build stronger social skills, and participate in sports and leisure activities.

While using an ADHD stimulant, your child's height can be observed by your physician. If you're worried about your child's development, you might want to discuss medication holidays with them.

Can Dexedrine Cause Weight Loss?

Due to dexedrine's ability to decrease appetite, weight loss may result. It might not be the greatest idea to take an ADHD stimulant if you or your child wants to maintain or gain weight.

When using Dexedrine, you need to be sure you're obtaining enough nutrients. It can help to eat breakfast before taking your medication and to have snacks available all day.

If you have any concerns regarding your weight or nutrition while taking Dexedrine, let your provider know.

Dexedrine Safety

Because dexedrine is classified as a Schedule II drug, abuse is possible. Always take prescription drugs exactly as directed by your doctor. Don't give anyone else access to your medication.

Although rare, there have been reports of significant cardiac issues in children and adults using stimulant drugs, such as Dexedrine. Those using stimulants to treat ADHD may also have mental health issues. When you first start taking the medication, your doctor might want to discuss your mental health and family history with you. They might also want to regularly monitor you to make sure the drug is safe for you.

Contraindications

Some people are unable to take Dexedrine due to safety concerns. Dexedrine for ADHD, for instance, might not be appropriate for those with specific medical conditions, substance use disorders, allergies, or hypersensitivities to stimulant medications.

If you are nursing a child, are pregnant, or intend to become pregnant, speak with your provider. Dexedrine should not be taken during nursing as it may be harmful to the developing foetus.

How to Handle the Side Effects of ADHD Medication

Drug Interactions

Dexedrine and other ADHD medications may interact with other prescriptions or supplements you may be taking. It's critical that you inform your healthcare practitioner about all of your medications, especially if they are OTC (over-the-counter) items like vitamins.

Medications known as MAOIs that are used to treat depression cannot be used with dexedrine. Before beginning Dexedrine, you must wait at least 14 days after quitting an MAOI.

How to Stop Taking Dexedrine

Do not stop taking your medication without first speaking with your provider if you need to stop taking Dexedrine for any reason. Your doctor can assist you in tapering off your medication gradually and carefully to prevent rebound side effects if you need to stop using it or go to a different medication for ADHD.