Side Effects of dextroamphetamine: A Synthesis of Findings from 25 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Dextroamphetamine is a psychostimulant drug that has been used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) since the 1950s. 5 It has also been shown to improve alertness and cognitive performance in sleep-deprived individuals. 22 However, dextroamphetamine can cause several side effects, including growth retardation, appetite loss, headache, stomach ache, heart problems, insomnia, seizures, changes in personality, addiction, and even suicidal thoughts. 5 It is especially important to be cautious when using dextroamphetamine in children and adolescents, as it can lead to growth suppression and addiction in this population. 3 14 Combining dextroamphetamine with alcohol or other drugs of abuse can lead to dangerous interactions. 23

Reasons for side effects

Dextroamphetamine works by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which can lead to improved alertness and focus. 10 6 However, excessive levels of these neurotransmitters can cause side effects like appetite loss, insomnia, headache, and stomach ache. 5 4 Dextroamphetamine can also affect the heart, which can lead to heart problems and seizures. 5

Common side effects

Appetite Loss

Dextroamphetamine can cause appetite loss. 5 4 This is thought to be due to the drug stimulating the brain's satiety center.

Insomnia

Dextroamphetamine can cause insomnia. 5 4 This is thought to be due to the drug stimulating the brain's arousal center.

Headache

Dextroamphetamine can cause headaches. 5 This is thought to be due to the drug constricting blood vessels.

Stomach Ache

Dextroamphetamine can cause stomach ache. 5 This is thought to be due to the drug increasing stomach motility.

Heart Problems

Dextroamphetamine can cause heart problems. 5 This is thought to be due to the drug contracting heart muscles.

Seizures

Dextroamphetamine can cause seizures. 5 This is thought to be due to the drug over-stimulating brain cells.

Changes in Personality

Dextroamphetamine can cause changes in personality. 5 This is thought to be due to the drug affecting the brain's emotional centers.

Addiction

Dextroamphetamine can cause addiction. 5 This is thought to be due to the drug stimulating the brain's pleasure center.

Suicidal Thoughts

Dextroamphetamine can cause suicidal thoughts. 5 This is thought to be due to the drug affecting the brain's emotional centers.

Side Effects Management

Appetite Loss

Appetite loss caused by dextroamphetamine can sometimes be managed by increasing the frequency of meals and consuming high-calorie foods. 4 You can also talk to your doctor about using appetite-enhancing medications.

Insomnia

Insomnia caused by dextroamphetamine can sometimes be managed by incorporating relaxing activities into your bedtime routine. For example, taking a warm bath, trying aromatherapy, or reading can be helpful. You can also talk to your doctor about using sleep aids.

Headache

Headaches caused by dextroamphetamine can sometimes be managed by taking over-the-counter pain relievers. You can also talk to your doctor about using headache medications.

Stomach Ache

Stomach aches caused by dextroamphetamine can sometimes be managed by increasing the frequency of meals and eating smaller portions. You can also talk to your doctor about using antacids.

Heart Problems

Dextroamphetamine can be hard on the heart, so if you have a history of heart disease, make sure to talk to your doctor before taking it.

Seizures

Dextroamphetamine can trigger seizures. If you have a history of seizures, make sure to talk to your doctor before taking it.

Changes in Personality

Dextroamphetamine can cause changes in personality. If you experience this side effect, talk to your doctor about it. It's also important to reach out to family and friends for support.

Addiction

Dextroamphetamine can be addictive, so it's important to take it as prescribed by your doctor and never stop taking it or increase the dosage without consulting them.

Suicidal Thoughts

Dextroamphetamine can trigger suicidal thoughts. If you experience this side effect, contact your doctor immediately. Reach out to family and friends for support. If you're having thoughts of suicide, contact a suicide prevention hotline or crisis center.

Comparison Between Studies

Commonalities Between Studies

Many studies have shown that dextroamphetamine is effective for treating ADHD, improving alertness and cognitive performance in sleep-deprived individuals. 5 22 However, these studies have also commonly reported side effects such as appetite loss, insomnia, headache, stomach ache, heart problems, seizures, changes in personality, addiction, and suicidal thoughts. 5 4

Differences Between Studies

The effectiveness and severity of side effects of dextroamphetamine can vary depending on the study. For instance, some studies have reported high effectiveness in treating ADHD symptoms, while others have reported more severe side effects such as insomnia and appetite loss. 5 8 This could be attributed to factors like age, sex, severity of ADHD, and dosage.

Precautions for Real-Life Application

Dextroamphetamine should always be taken under the supervision of a physician. Self-medicating with this drug can lead to health problems. Additionally, as it can be addictive, follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Limitations of Current Research

There is still much we don't know about the long-term effects and side effects of dextroamphetamine. Further research is needed, particularly regarding its long-term impact.

Future Directions for Research

More research is needed on the long-term effects and side effects of dextroamphetamine, as well as its potential for addiction. We also need to investigate how dextroamphetamine interacts with other medications.

Conclusion

Dextroamphetamine has been shown to be effective in treating ADHD, improving alertness and cognitive performance in sleep-deprived individuals. However, it also carries the risk of side effects such as appetite loss, insomnia, headaches, stomach aches, heart problems, seizures, changes in personality, addiction, and suicidal thoughts. Taking dextroamphetamine requires a physician's diagnosis and prescription. Self-medicating or ignoring your doctor's instructions can lead to serious health problems.

Keywords
Benefit Keywords
Stimulant abuse attenuation
1
Cognitive rehabilitation
Enhanced executive function
Faster processing
Improved arousal
Improved communication
Psychotherapy
Reduced distractibility
2
Treat AD/HD
3
Treats ADHD
4
ADHD treatment
5
ADHD treatment
6
Abulic state treatment
7
Effective for ADHD
8
Possible antidepressant augmentation
9
Effective treatment
Improved depression
Long acting
Well tolerated
10
Reduced OCD symptoms
11
Antipsychotic potential
12
Helicopter pilot performance
13
Aripiprazole treatment
14
Improved QoL
Reduced hyperactivity
15
Prepulse inhibition improvement
16
Effective ADHD treatment
Good separation of therapeutic effects
Prolonged duration of action
17
Antipsychotic effects
18
Improved depression
19
Sustained performance
20
Improved ADHD
21
Alertness improvement
Memory improvement
Mental performance improvement
22
ADHD treatment
23
Hypothalamic obesity treatment
24
ADHD treatment
25
Risk Keywords
Side effects
1
Drug interactions
Side effects
2
Dependence
Motor effects
3
Growth suppression
4
Addiction
Appetite loss
Character change
Growth retardation
Headache
Heart problems
Insomnia
Seizure
Stomachache
Suicidal thoughts
5
Abuse potential
Side effects
6
Dexamin seizures
7
Possible related event
Weight loss
8
Hypertensive crisis
Serious complications
9
Abuse potential
Blood pressure changes
Cardiac conduction delays
Constipation
Dietary restrictions
Dry mouth
Increased tics
Mood swings
Tremors
10
EPS
Emesis
Sedation
12
D2 receptor up-regulation
14
Limited data on adverse effects
15
Catalepsy
18
Manic response
Side effects
Tricyclic levels increase
19
Abuse potential
Addiction
20
Decreased appetite
Decreased weight
Headache
Insomnia
Irritability
21
Psychostimulant side effects
22
Drug interactions
23
Cardiotoxicity
25
Literature analysis of 25 papers
Positive Content
21
Neutral Content
3
Negative Content
1
Article Type
4
0
2
8
25
1.

Separate and combined impact of acute naltrexone and alprazolam on subjective and physiological effects of oral d-amphetamine in stimulant users.

Author: MarksKatherine R, LileJoshua A, StoopsWilliam W, RushCraig R

Stimulant abuse attenuation
Side effects

Opioid antagonists (e.g., naltrexone) and GABAA receptor modulators (e.g., alprazolam) can reduce stimulant abuse, but high doses lead to side effects. This article suggests combining naltrexone and alprazolam to maximize efficacy while avoiding side effects.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

3.

Paradoxical effects of D-amphetamine in infant and adolescent mice: role of gender and environmental risk factors.

Author: CirulliF, LaviolaG

Treat AD/HD
Dependence
Motor effects

This study looked at how D-amphetamine affects developing mice, particularly the role of gender and environmental factors. D-amphetamine had different effects on females and males and was more likely to cause side effects in maternally deprived mice.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

5.

Attention deficit disorders--drugs or nutrition?

Author: MatsudairaToshiko

ADHD treatment
Addiction
Appetite loss
Character change
Growth retardation
Headache
Heart problems
Insomnia
Seizure
Stomachache
Suicidal thoughts

Omega-3 fatty acids, a type of fat found in fish oil, may be a helpful treatment option for children with ADHD. While more research is needed, omega-3 fatty acids may improve ADHD symptoms by supporting brain development and function.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

7.

[The pharmacological treatment of abulic posttraumatic state in children-preliminary report].

Author: Wojaczyńska-StanekKatarzyna, Wesołek-KamińskaBeata, KopytaIlona, MarszałElzbieta

Abulic state treatment
Dexamin seizures

Treatment with Gliatilin and Dexamin improved the clinical state of patients with posttraumatic abulic state. In a study of 12 children, all children were rehabilitated and showed improvement in hearing, sight, and speech. After 12 months, no patients exhibited abulic state.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : Polish

8.

A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of dexamphetamine in adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Author: PatersonR, DouglasC, HallmayerJ, HaganM, KrupeniaZ

Effective for ADHD
Possible related event
Weight loss

Dexamphetamine appears to be efficacious in treating adult ADHD in the short term. It showed a significant therapeutic response exceeding placebo with the only significant side effect being weight loss.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

9.

Combining stimulants with monoamine oxidase inhibitors: a review of uses and one possible additional indication.

Author: FeinbergS Shalom

Possible antidepressant augmentation
Hypertensive crisis
Serious complications

This article reviews the use of stimulant augmentation with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) for antidepressant-resistant depression. While MAOI use has declined due to concerns about hypertensive crises, experienced clinicians still utilize this combination for specific indications. The article presents a case suggesting another potential indication.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

10.

Novel treatments for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children.

Author: SpencerThomas J, BiedermanJoseph, WilensTimothy E, FaraoneStephen V

Effective treatment
Improved depression
Long acting
Well tolerated
Abuse potential
Blood pressure changes
Cardiac conduction delays
Constipation
Dietary restrictions
Dry mouth
Increased tics
Mood swings
Tremors

Stimulants are the most effective medications for children with ADHD, but they can be abused and have side effects. Atomoxetine, a new drug for ADHD, has been shown to be effective in reducing ADHD symptoms without exacerbating comorbid conditions and is associated with only minor side effects.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

11.

Double-blind study of dextroamphetamine versus caffeine augmentation for treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Author: KoranLorrin M, AboujaoudeElias, GamelNona N

Reduced OCD symptoms

This 5-week, double-blind, caffeine-controlled study tested the hypothesis that dextroamphetamine, added after an adequate selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) trial, would be more effective than caffeine in reducing residual obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

12.

The acetylcholinesterase inhibitor galantamine inhibits d-amphetamine-induced psychotic-like behavior in Cebus monkeys.

Author: AndersenMaibritt B, WergeThomas, Fink-JensenAnders

Antipsychotic potential
EPS
Emesis
Sedation

Galantamine, an acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor, showed antipsychotic potential in monkeys by inhibiting d-amphetamine-induced psychotic-like behavior.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

13.

Sustaining helicopter pilot performance with Dexedrine during periods of sleep deprivation.

Author: CaldwellJ A, CaldwellJ L, CrowleyJ S, JonesH D

Helicopter pilot performance

Dexedrine appears to be effective for sustaining helicopter pilot performance during short periods of sleep loss without producing adverse side effects.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

14.

Repeated aripiprazole treatment causes dopamine D2 receptor up-regulation and dopamine supersensitivity in young rats.

Author: VarelaFausto A, Der-GhazarianTaleen, LeeRyan J, CharntikovSergios, CrawfordCynthia A, McDougallSanders A

Aripiprazole treatment
D2 receptor up-regulation

Aripiprazole, a second-generation antipsychotic, caused D2 receptor up-regulation and persistent alterations in amphetamine-induced behavior in young rats. These findings suggest that repeated aripiprazole treatment may lead to dopamine supersensitivity in young individuals, possibly contributing to the increased risk of extrapyramidal symptoms.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

15.

A systematic review and economic model of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of methylphenidate, dexamfetamine and atomoxetine for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents.

Author: KingS, GriffinS, HodgesZ, WeatherlyH, AsseburgC, RichardsonG, GolderS, TaylorE, DrummondM, RiemsmaR

Improved QoL
Reduced hyperactivity
Limited data on adverse effects

Methylphenidate, dexamfetamine, and atomoxetine were effective in reducing hyperactivity and improving quality of life in children with ADHD.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

17.

Differences in the neurochemical and behavioural profiles of lisdexamfetamine methylphenidate and modafinil revealed by simultaneous dual-probe microdialysis and locomotor activity measurements in freely-moving rats.

Author: RowleyHelen L, KulkarniRajiv S, GosdenJane, BrammerRichard J, HackettDavid, HealDavid J

Effective ADHD treatment
Good separation of therapeutic effects
Prolonged duration of action

This study compared the neurochemical and behavioral profiles of lisdexamfetamine, methylphenidate, and modafinil in conscious rats. Lisdexamfetamine produced larger and more sustained effects on catecholaminergic neurotransmission than methylphenidate or modafinil, with good separation between its therapeutic actions and stimulant side-effects.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

19.

Do the old psychostimulant drugs have a role in managing treatment-resistant depression?

Author: ParkerG, BrotchieH

Improved depression
Manic response
Side effects
Tricyclic levels increase

Psychostimulants such as methylphenidate and dexamphetamine may be efficacious for patients with melancholic and bipolar depression who have failed to respond to orthodox antidepressant drugs. In a sample of 50 patients, 34% reported distinct improvement in their depression.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

20.

Modafinil as a replacement for dextroamphetamine for sustaining alertness in military helicopter pilots.

Author: EstradaArthur, KelleyAmanda M, WebbCatherine M, AthyJeremy R, CrowleyJohn S

Sustained performance
Abuse potential
Addiction

Modafinil, a stimulant with a low affinity for dopamine uptake binding sites, has been evaluated for its efficacy and safety during actual helicopter flight operations. The study found that modafinil was effective and safe, providing support for its potential use as an alternative to dextroamphetamine in military aviation.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.Research funding provided by US government agencies other than the Public Health Service.

Language : English

21.

Efficacy and safety of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate in adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Author: FindlingRobert L, ChildressAnn C, CutlerAndrew J, GasiorMaria, HamdaniMohamed, Ferreira-CornwellM Celeste, SquiresLiza

Improved ADHD
Decreased appetite
Decreased weight
Headache
Insomnia
Irritability

Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) was effective in treating adolescent ADHD and demonstrated a safety profile consistent with previous LDX studies.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

23.

Are there any potentially dangerous pharmacological effects of combining ADHD medication with alcohol and drugs of abuse? A systematic review of the literature.

Author: BarklaXanthe M, McArdlePaul A, Newbury-BirchDorothy

ADHD treatment
Drug interactions

Approximately 5% of young people up to 18 years old have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with many experiencing symptoms into adulthood. ADHD is associated with increased risk of co-morbid psychiatric disorders, including substance misuse. Medication such as methylphenidate, atomoxetine, dexamphetamine, and lisdexamfetamine are commonly prescribed, but it is important to be aware of potential interactions and toxicity.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

24.

Dextroamphetamine Treatment in Children With Hypothalamic Obesity.

Author: van SchaikJiska, WellingMila S, de GrootCorjan J, van EckJudith P, JuriaansAlicia, BurghardMarcella, Oude OphuisSebastianus B J, BakkerBoudewijn, TissingWim J E, Schouten-van MeeterenAntoinette Y N, van den AkkerErica L T, van SantenHanneke M

Hypothalamic obesity treatment

This study presents the experience of treating hypothalamic obesity (HO) in children with dextroamphetamine, demonstrating potential benefits for weight management in this patient population.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

25.

Psychopharmacology of ADHD: children and adolescents.

Author: FindlingR L, DoginJ W

ADHD treatment
Cardiotoxicity

This review discusses medication options for children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Psychostimulants are considered first-line treatment, but other options such as tricyclic antidepressants, alpha2 agonists, bupropion, and venlafaxine are also being studied.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

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