Dexedrine Spansule

(Dextroamphetamine sulfate)

Forms/Strengths

•  Capsules: 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg

Dosing

• Age: 6+ y/o
• Onset: ~ 60 min
• Duration: ~ 6-8 hours
• Considerations: Advise to take consistently either with food or without food. May be opened and the entire contents gently sprinkled on a teaspoon of cool applesauce, yogurt, or other soft food
• Initial Dose: 5 mg once or twice daily
• Titration: Increase by 5 mg at weekly intervals until optimal response
• Max Dose: 40 mg per day

Not recommended for patients with structural cardiac abnormalities

Quick Facts

• Increases synaptic dopamine and norepinephrine by stimulating presynaptic release
• Enhances focus, attention, and impulse control
• Extended-release spansule capsule for sustained, day-long effect
• Unique formulation minimizes plasma level fluctuations
• Common side effects: decreased appetite, insomnia, headache, increased heart rate

Indications

• ADHD (ICD-10: F90.0)
• Narcolepsy (ICD-10: G47.419)

Off-Label Uses

•  N/A

How to Take

• Take once or twice daily, as directed, with the first dose in the morning.
• Can be taken with or without food; high-fat meals may delay absorption.
• Swallow the capsule whole; do not crush or chew.
• If needed, the capsule may be opened, and contents sprinkled on applesauce—consume immediately without chewing.
• Avoid taking late in the day to prevent insomnia.
  

Side Effects

• Common: Insomnia, decreased appetite, weight loss, dry mouth

  Serious: Cardiovascular events, psychiatric symptoms, growth suppression in childre

Monitoring / Labs

• Cardiovascular: Baseline and routine monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure.
• Growth in Pediatrics: Regular monitoring of height and weight to detect growth suppression.
• Psychiatric Symptoms: Observe for mood changes, anxiety, or psychosis.
• Abuse Potential: Monitor for misuse or diversion.

Education

• When to Call the Doctor:

  • Severe mood changes, aggression, or suicidal thoughts.
  • Chest pain, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath (cardiovascular concerns).
  • Uncontrolled movements, tics, or worsening anxiety.
  • Numbness, coldness, or color changes in fingers or toes (circulatory issues).
  • Unexplained weight loss or delayed growth in pediatric patients.

• Safety Tips:

  • Monitor blood pressure and heart rate, especially in patients with cardiovascular risk.
  • Use caution in patients with anxiety, bipolar disorder, or psychosis, as symptoms may worsen.
  • Avoid caffeine and other stimulants, which may amplify side effects.
  • Ensure adequate hydration and nutrition, as appetite suppression is common.
  • Tapering may be required if discontinuing after long-term use.

• Parent Tips for Pediatric Patients:

  • Encourage a nutrient-dense diet to counteract appetite suppression.
  • Administer in the morning before school for optimal effect.
  • Monitor school performance and behavioral changes.
  • Observe for sleep disturbances; adjust timing if necessary.
  • Communicate regularly with teachers and caregivers about medication effects.

Additional Information

• Contraindications:

  • Hypersensitivity to amphetamines or formulation components.
  • Use within 14 days of MAOI therapy (risk of hypertensive crisis).
  • Symptomatic cardiovascular disease, moderate-to-severe hypertension, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma.
  • History of substance use disorder, unless benefits outweigh risks.

• Pregnancy:

  • Category C; use only if benefits outweigh risks.
  • May cause neonatal withdrawal symptoms or low birth weight.

• Lactation:

  • Excreted in breast milk; not recommended due to potential infant exposure.

• Drug Interactions:

  • Serotonergic drugs (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs) increase serotonin syndrome risk.
  • Acidifying agents (e.g., ascorbic acid) may reduce drug absorption.
  • Alkalinizing agents (e.g., sodium bicarbonate) may increase amphetamine levels.
  • May potentiate hypertensive effects of certain medications (e.g., decongestants, beta-agonists).