Dexamfetamine

About Dexamfetamine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as stimulants.

Dexamfetamine is used to treat narcolepsy (excessive sleepiness). It can also be used to treat children with ADHD (attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder).

Dexamfetamine is also written as dexamphetamine. You may notice the use of either spelling on the packaging of your medicine.

Dexamfetamine is available in tablet form.

It is also sometimes known as: Dexedrine. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking Dexamfetamine

Before taking Dexamfetamine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from heart or thyroid problems
• if you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure), epilepsy, tics (twitching of the muscles without control from the patient), Tourette's syndrome (outbursts of uncontrollable obscene speech), glaucoma or porphyria (a blood disorder)
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to take Dexamfetamine

• Always read the manufacturer’s information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Try to take Dexamfetamine at the same times each day, to avoid missing any doses.
• Do not stop taking Dexamfetamine without speaking to your doctor first.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Dexamfetamine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any "over-the-counter" medicines check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside Dexamfetamine.
• Keep you regular appointments with your doctor. Children need to have their height and weight measured regularly while they are taking Dexamfetamine.
• Dexamfetamine can cause dizziness, can affect your concentration and cause problems with eyesight. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert or able to see properly.
• Dexamfetamine can occasionally cause dry mouth. If you experience this, try chewing sugar-free gum, sucking sugar-free sweets or pieces of ice. If dry mouth becomes a problem speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Dexamfetamine may cause you to sweat more than you usually do. Take care not to become overheated during exercise or hot weather.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental and emergency treatment, tell your doctor, dentist or surgeon you are taking Dexamfetamine.

Can Dexamfetamine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Insomnia (difficulty sleeping), feeling unable to sit still, a short temper, nervousness, nightmares, shakiness, dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, constipation, diarrhoea, tummy ache, indigestion, dry mouth, sweating, a fast or fluttering heartbeat and chest pains or problems with eyesight.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Dexamfetamine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 26/02/2004