Dexedrine, also known as dextroamphetamine, is a stimulant medication used in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Stimulant medications are frequently used to treat the symptoms of impulsivity, hyperactivity, and difficulties with focus and attention in individuals with ADHD. Dexedrine is one type of stimulant medication that has been in use. It has several advantages as a treatment for ADHD, including its ability to minimize symptoms, availability in various forms allowing short- and longer-term effects, safety, and consistent coverage.
Symptom Alleviation
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration describes Dexedrine's advantages as a treatment for ADHD, stating that it has been found to help control symptoms of impulsivity, hyperactivity, difficulties sustaining attention and distractibility. Stimulant medications like Dexedrine are commonly used to treat ADHD symptoms and are helpful in enhancing an individual's ability to overcome difficulties with focus, attention and controlling behavior. Although it will not eliminate symptoms completely, the use of Dexedrine will minimize symptoms and provide the individual with a greater sense of control in managing symptoms.
Different Forms
Dexedrine is available in two forms, a short-acting and a long-acting pill. The short- acting form of Dexedrine is available in 5 and 10 mg tablets, which begin working within 20 to 30 minutes of ingestion. These pills remain effective for approximately 4 to 5 hours. The sustained-release form of Dexedrine, known as spansules, release half of the medication after one hour and the other half after an additional three and a half hours have passed. This form of Dexedrine is available in 5, 10 and 15 mg capsules. The duration of this medication is approximately 6 to 8 hours, but it may remain effective longer in some individuals. Although it does not begin working as quickly, the sustained-release function allows the medication to remain effective for an extended period of time.
The availability of different forms is helpful in providing consistent coverage to individuals. The longer-acting form allows greater coverage without the need for multiple doses and is preferable to most children for the school day. Also, the quick effectiveness of the shorter-acting form can provide symptom alleviation quickly.
Safety and Consistency
Dexedrine is considered to have a "smooth course of action," meaning that it provides consistent symptom coverage without any ups and downs while it is working. It is also considered to be a safe medication, rarely causing harmful effects when taken appropriately. Consistent coverage of symptoms is provided by this medication over several hours, particularly in the longer-acting form, which can provide medication throughout the day.
