Drug guide

Dextroamphetamine

Dextroamphetamine is used as part of a treatment program for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; more difficulty focusing, controlling actions, and remaining still or quiet than other people who are the same age). Dextroamphetamine is also used to treat narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep). Dextroamphetamine is in a class of medications called central nervous system stimulants. It works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain.

Dextroamphetamine comes as a tablet and a extended-release (long acting) capsule to take by mouth. The tablet is usually taken 2–3 times daily with or without food. The extended-release capsule is usually taken once a day with or without food. Take Dextroamphetamine at around the same time(s) every day. If you are taking Dextroamphetamine tablets, take your first dose as soon as you wake up in the morning, and space your doses by 4–6 hours. Do not take Dextroamphetamine in the evening. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Dextroamphetamine exactly as directed. Do not chew or crush the extended-release capsules. Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of Dextroamphetamine and gradually increase your dose, not more than once every week. Your doctor may tell you to stop taking Dextroamphetamine from time to time to see if the medication is still needed. Follow these directions carefully.