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DEXAMPHETAMINE SULPHATE
What is it?
Dexamphetamine is a sterioisomer of amphetamine. Amphetamines, often
referred to as "speed", are stimulants.
What is dexamphetamine used for?
- treatment of narcolepsy (the sleeping disorder)
- adjunct therapy in the management of ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity
disorder) that does not respond to non-pharmacological measures.
What are the side-effects?
- emotional lability
- insomnia
- reduced appetite
- growth retardation (see below)
Rare side-effects include seizures, compulsive behaviours, psychotic
reactions, & lack of spontaneity.
Special cautions in children
Height and weight should be monitored since growth retardation may occur
with long-term use - this effect can be reduced by using drug-free periods.
In psychotic children, dexamphetamine may exacerbate behavioural disturbances
and thought disorder.
Contraindications
- heart disease (including moderate to severe hypertension)
- hyperthyroidism
- history of drug or alcohol abuse
- glaucoma
- pregnancy
- breast-feeding
Dexamphetamine can cause dependence and tolerance. In the UK, amphetamines
are classified as Controlled Drugs.
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