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Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine®): Basic Information

Dextroamphetamine (US brand name Dexedrine® and generic) is a noncatecholamine, sympathomimetic amine with CNS stimulant activity. Here is basic information about this medication.

FDA-approved indications

Narcolepsy

Attention deficit disorders with hyperactivity

Dosage

A. Narcolepsy

Usual dose is 5–60 mg/day

1. Ages 6-12

Starting: 5 mg daily
Titration: Increments of 5 mg weekly until optimal response

2. Ages 12 and above

Starting: 10 mg daily
Titration: Increments of 10 mg weekly until optimal response

B. Attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity

1. In children ages 3-5

Starting: 2.5 mg daily
Titration: Increments of 2.5 mg weekly until optimal response

2. In children ages 6 and older

Starting: 5 mg once or twice daily
Titration: Increments of 5 mg weekly until optimal response
Maximum: 40 mg daily

Not recommended for children under 3 years of age.

Prescribing instructions

Spansule capsules may be used for once-a-day dosage wherever appropriate. Spansule sustained release capsule releases initial dose promptly while releasing the remaining medication gradually over a prolonged period.

With tablets, give first dose on awakening; additional doses (1 or 2) at intervals of 4 to 6 hours.

Dosage forms and strengths

Spansule capsules (Dexedrine® and generic): 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg

Tablets (generic) : 2.5 mg, 5 mg (scored), 7.5 mg, 10 mg ( double scored), 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg

Oral Solution (generic): 5 mg/5 mL

Please refer to Prescribing Information (see link below) for complete discussion of dosage, administration, warnings and precautions, contraindications, etc.


Related Pages

Amphetamine Preparations (Free)

Does lisdexamfetamine really have lower abuse potential?

Converting stimulants: Equivalent doses


References

Dextroamphetamine Sulfate (Dexedrine®) Prescribing Information


Copyright 2016, Rajnish Mago, MD. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced in any form without express written permission.

Disclaimer: The content on this website is provided as general education for medical professionals. It is not intended or recommended for patients or other laypersons, or as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients must always consult a qualified health care professional regarding their diagnosis and treatment. Healthcare professionals should always check this website for the most recently updated information.

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