Brand Names

Dexedrine, ProCentra, Xelstrym, Zenzedi

What is dextroamphetamine used for? 

Dextroamphetamine is in a class of medications called “stimulants” that are used for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obesity (due to a hypothalamic-pituitary disorder) and narcolepsy (uncontrollable sleepiness).

What are the most common side effects seen with dextroamphetamine? 

• Decreased appetite 

• Decreased neutrophils (a type of white blood cell that is used in the immune system)

• Application site reaction (only for children that use the dextroamphetamine patch - burning, redness, swelling, discomfort)

• Insomnia (trouble sleeping)

• Emotional lability (moodswings, irritability)  

Contraindications

• Dextroamphetamine should not be taken if your child has had an anaphylactic reaction (hives or swelling of the tongue) to dextroamphetamine or amphetamine previously. 

• Dextroamphetamine should not be taken if your child is currently taking or has taken a medication in a drug class called monoamine oxidase inhibitors within 14 days. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors include: 

  • Isocarboxazid

  • Phenelzine 

  • Selegiline 

  • Tranylcypromine 

  • Moclobemide

  • Linezolid

  • Methylene Blue 

Tips & Tricks to administer dextroamphetamine

• Dextroamphetamine comes in a variety of formulations (tablets, capsules, liquid, patches). Each formulation should be taken in the specific manner recommended by the manufacturer and the pharmacy (will be written on the label). 

Breast feeding considerations 

• Dextroamphetamine is concentrated in breast milk if being taken by the mother. 

• Per the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), dextroamphetamine and amphetamine is contraindicated during breastfeeding. 

Storage Considerations 

Almost all ADHD medications have a high potential of abuse and misuse which can lead to addiction. Due to this risk, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has classified these medications as a controlled substance (C-II). In order to dispense these medications, pharmacies must follow a strict set of rules and regulations set by the DEA. 

At home, these medications should be stored in a safe location that cannot be easily found and accessed by guests, visitors or other family members.