Prescription Drugs
 contains or is another name for this drug.
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Dextroamphetamine and Amphetamine (dex troe am fet' a meen) and (am fet' a meen)
Other names: Adderall
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The combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger ... Full Alert
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Why is this medication prescribed?

The combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine is used as part of a treatment program for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; more difficulty focusing, controlling actions, and remaining still or quiet than other people who are the same age). Dextroamphetamine and amphetamine tablets are also used to treat narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep). The combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine is in a class of medications called central nervous system stimulants. It works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain.

How should this medication be used?

The combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine comes as a tablet and an extended-release (long acting) capsule to take by mouth. The tablet is usually taken two to three times daily with or without food. The extended-release capsule is usually taken once daily in the morning with or without food. Dextroamphetamine and amphetamine combination should not be taken in the late afternoon or evening because it may cause difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take dextroamphetamine and amphetamine exactly as directed.

You may swallow the extended-release capsule whole, or you may open the capsule and sprinkle the entire contents on a teaspoonful of applesauce. Swallow this mixture right away without chewing. Do not store the applesauce/medication mixture for future use, and do not divide the contents of one capsule into more than one dose.

Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine and increase your dose gradually, not more often than once every week.

Your doctor may tell you to stop taking dextroamphetamine and amphetamine from time to time to see if the medication is still needed. Follow these directions carefully.

Are there other uses for this medicine?

The combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine should not be used to treat excessive tiredness that is not caused by narcolepsy.

This medication may be prescribed for other conditions; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

  • Adderall®
Last Revised January 06, 2007
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
This information being provided is copyrighted by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., ASHP, Bethesda, Maryland.
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