Dextroamphetamine (D-Amphetamine)

Dextroamphetamine (d-amphetamine) is a stimulant medication that’s considered a controlled substance and schedule II drug. Some of the brand names of d-amphetamine include:

• Dexedrine Spansule
• ProCentra
• Zenzedi
• Dexampex
• Adderall XR

D-amphetamine is a type of amphetamine salt medication like Adderall and lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse). D-amphetamine is a prescription drug that can be abused because it targets the central nervous system (CNS) and can interact with a number of other medications.

D-Amphetamine Uses

D-amphetamine is FDA-approved to help ease the symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Some of the symptoms of ADHD that d-amphetamine can help include difficulty focusing and problems sitting still. 

In addition to the treatment of ADHD, d-amphetamine can be used to treat a variety of sleep disorders including narcolepsy. Narcolepsy is a condition that causes a person to experience excessive sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep throughout the day.

This medication comes as a tablet, including immediate-release capsules, and is taken orally. It should be stored at room temperature.

Side Effects Of D-Amphetamine

Some of the side effects you can experience from d-amphetamine may include:

• headache
• weight loss
• dry mouth
• changes in sex drive
• constipation 

More serious side effects include:

• seizures
• hallucinations
• changes in mood
• dizziness
• verbal tics
• blurred vision
• ​hives
• agitation

Those who have heart problems should steer clear of d-amphetamine due to the issues that may transpire such as serious cardiovascular adverse events. 

Breast-feeding is discouraged while taking d-amphetamine because it has been shown to pass through breast milk, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

Antidepressants & D-Amphetamine Interactions

Antidepressants that are classified as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) should not be combined with d-amphetamine. 

Those combining antidepressants with d-amphetamine may experience a number of health issues including serotonin syndrome/toxicity. When one combines antidepressant medications with d-amphetamine, this type of syndrome can occur.

The sometimes life-threatening side effects of d-amphetamine are worsened by the mixture of other prescription medications, alcohol, and other drugs with d-amphetamine. 

Other Contraindications

There are several medications that interact with amphetamine/dextroamphetamine. In addition to this, there are a variety of contraindications for those who have glaucoma or increased eye pressure.

Others include those who have a history of mental illness such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. Combining certain medications with d-amphetamine can cause a person with mental illness to potentially experience psychosis. 

Stimulants may make verbal tics or tremors worse. This is why it’s recommended that those who suffer from Tourette’s do not take d-amphetamine.

Those with hyperthyroidism and those who experience hypertension will likely want to avoid taking this prescription stimulant as well. 

Signs Of D-amphetamine Abuse

This central nervous system stimulant medication can be habit-forming which can ultimately lead to drug abuse. Those who abuse d-amphetamine or combine the medication with other drugs may show signs of abuse. 

Those who suspect that a loved one is struggling with d-amphetamine abuse should be aware of the following signs of abuse:

• dramatic weight loss
• ​changes in mood
• chest pain
• tooth decay 
• shaking

In addition to the worsening of side effects from the d-amphetamine medication, someone abusing the drug may experience:

• high blood pressure
• increased heart rate
• ​heart attack
• ​coma
• sudden death

Treatment For D-amphetamine Abuse

Those who experience severe side effects from d-amphetamine should speak with their healthcare provider right away. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse, consider contacting your healthcare professional.

When you reach out for medical advice, your doctor can determine if d-amphetamine is right for you. Those who are abusing the medication will receive guidance on how to move forward. 

You can also choose an addiction treatment center that provides therapy options as well as inpatient or outpatient care. To learn about treatment programs, please contact us today.