Dexamfetamine is used on its own or together with other medicines to treat attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD). People with ADHD may have problems concentrating on a given task and may have short attention spans. They may also be impulsive, restless, and hyperactive.
Dexamfetamine is also used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness (narcolepsy).
Take Dexamfetamine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Dexamfetamine is best taken early in the day, preferably before noon. Otherwise, it may affect your sleep at night.
Dexamfetamine is available as a tablet, immediate-release, sustained-release or extended-release type of tablet or capsule (may be labelled “ER”), or oral solution.
If you are taking the immediate-release, sustained-release or extended-release type of capsule or tablet (may be labelled “ER”), swallow it whole. Do not divide, chew or crush the tablet or capsule.
If you are taking an oral solution, use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure out your prescribed dose.
Dexamfetamine must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it suddenly as this may worsen your condition. Your doctor may want to reduce the dose of Dexamfetamine gradually before stopping it completely.
It may also be necessary for you to take this medicine for a long time, such as for a few years. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- high blood pressure or heart disease
- glaucoma (an increased pressure in the eye)
- agitated state
- thyroid disease (e.g. an overactive thyroid)
- history of drug abuse
as Dexamfetamine may not be suitable for you.
Do not take Dexamfetamine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine to treat depression known as monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxacid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- mental problems such as mood changes between feeling very high (mania) and very low (depression)
- epilepsy (fits or seizures)
- history of Tourette syndrome (a condition which causes repetitive, uncontrollable movements or sounds)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child. If your child is taking Dexamfetamine, he may need to have his height and weight monitored regularly.
If you are going for an operation, including minor surgery and dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Dexamfetamine.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly. He may also need to do routine blood tests while you are being treated with Dexamfetamine.
Dexamfetamine may cause dizziness and blurred vision. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, dry mouth, diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, decreased appetite, difficult sleeping, and changes in taste.
This medicine may also cause impotence, changes in sex drive, and frequent or prolonged erections. Discuss with your doctor if you are concerned about these side effects.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- fast and irregular heartbeat
- unusual changes in mood or behaviour (being too depressed, agitated, or having compulsive and impulsive behaviour)
- continuous uncontrollable sounds and movements such as twitching and jerking
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Dexamfetamine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxacid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines,:
- medicines for high blood pressure e.g propranolol, clonidine
- medicines for mental illness e.g. lithium, haloperidol, amitriptyline, chlorpromazine
- disulfiram (medicine to treat alcoholism)
- medicines for epilepsy (fits or seizures) e.g. phenytoin, phenobarbital
- urine medicines e.g. sodium bicarbonate, ammonium chloride
- water pills e.g. acetazolamide, hydrochlorothiazide
- ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
- meperidine (a strong painkiller)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Dexamfetamine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Avoid taking too much fruit juices, acidic foods as well as caffeine-containing drinks such as coffee, tea and certain soft drinks. Ask your doctor about the type of foods you need to avoid.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
The oral solution should be used within 1 month after opening.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Sign Out
