Dextroamphetamine (brand name Dexedrine) is a stimulant medication that helps ease symptoms caused by attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is also available as the generic name dextroamphetamine sulfate.

In addition to this, Dexedrine is useful in treating narcolepsy, a sleeping disorder characterized by extreme sleepiness. It is a stimulant that targets the central nervous system (CNS), much like the well-known Adderall (amphetamine) stimulant.

According to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Dexedrine is a schedule II controlled substance drug. As a schedule II drug, Dexedrine has a high potential for abuse.

Side Effects Of Dexedrine

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), prescription stimulants allow one to experience a rush or euphoric high. In addition to this, there are a number of side effects that may occur while taking this medication.

Common Side Effects

Some of the more common side effects of Dexedrine include:

• constipation
• tremors
• a decrease in impulsivity
• changes in sex drive
• loss of appetite
• dry mouth
• difficulty sleeping
• headache

Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects of taking Dexedrine may consist of:

• chest pain
• high blood pressure
• severe weight loss
• tiredness
• mood changes
• blurred vision
• slowed speech
• withdrawal symptoms
• overdose
• irregular heartbeat
• hallucinations

Dexedrine Drug Interactions

With any prescription drug, there will be warnings. When it comes to Dexedrine, a number of drug interactions can occur. This is why it’s important to review the drug information for any prescription drug you take.

Combining Medications

Before combining any medications, you will likely need to speak with your healthcare provider. For instance, those taking Dexedrine will need to notify their doctor if they take antidepressants, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Supplements and certain vitamins may also not be allowed to be taken with Dexedrine.

When you take a central nervous system stimulant such as Dexedrine and combine it with other meds, you increase the likelihood of adverse effects which can include hives, an allergic reaction, or even an overdose. If this occurs, seek medical attention right away.

Dexedrine Warnings

Before taking Dexedrine, there are a number of warnings you should know. Having knowledge of the medications you take and your family history can make the process easier for you by informing your doctor of this information.

Mental Health Problems

If you or any of your family members have a history of mental illness such as bipolar disorder, Dexedrine may cause suicidal thoughts or depression.

Heart Problems

If you or anyone in your family have a history of heart problems, you should notify a healthcare professional before taking Dexedrine.

High blood pressure as well as a fluctuation in heart rate can be caused by the medication which may lead to cardiovascular issues including a potential heart attack or even sudden death.

Tourette’s Syndrome

Those with Tourette’s Syndrome may find their condition worsening when taking Dexedrine. One of the potential side effects of Dexedrine includes nervous tics which can exacerbate the syndrome.

Pregnancy

Women who are pregnant or mothers who are breastfeeding should be aware that Dexedrine can cause damage to the fetus and may pass from the mother’s milk to the infant. This can lead to serious medical conditions for the mother or child.

In fact, SAMHSA states that stimulant use while pregnant can cause potential problems for the child such as:

• cognitive behavioral problems
• delayed motor development
• low birth weight
• poor language skills
• premature birth

If you or a loved one live with Dexedrine addiction or another form of stimulant drug abuse, please contact us today for information on our outpatient treatment options.