Dextroamphetamine

Article summary

Dextroamphetamine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant and enantiomer of amphetamine that is used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It is also used illicitly to enhance cognitive and athletic performance, and recreationally as an aphrodisiac and euphoriant. Dextroamphetamine is generally regarded as the prototypical stimulant. The amphetamine molecule exists as two enantiomers, levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Dextroamphetamine is the dextrorotatory, or 'right-handed', enantiomer and exhibits more pronounced effects on the central nervous system than levoamphetamine. Pharmaceutical dextroamphetamine sulfate is available as both a brand name and generic drug in a variety of dosage forms. Dextroamphetamine is sometimes prescribed as the inactive prodrug lisdexamfetamine. Side effects of dextroamphetamine at therapeutic doses include elevated mood, decreased appetite, dry mouth, bruxism, headache, increased heart rate, insomnia, anxiety, and irritability, among others. At excessive doses, psychosis (i.e., hallucinations, delusions), addiction, and rapid muscle breakdown may occur. However, for individuals with pre-existing psychotic disorders, there may be a risk of psychosis even at therapeutic doses.…

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