What You Should Know About Dextroamphetamine Side Effects

Dextroamphetamine is an effective medication for ADHD and narcolepsy, but like all medications, it comes with potential side effects. Most side effects are mild and manageable, especially when the dose is properly adjusted. But some are serious and require immediate medical attention.

This guide covers the side effects you're most likely to experience, the warning signs you shouldn't ignore, and practical tips for managing them.

What Is Dextroamphetamine?

Dextroamphetamine is a Schedule II central nervous system (CNS) stimulant approved by the FDA to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It's available as generic tablets, as well as brand names like Zenzedi, Dexedrine, Dexedrine Spansule, and ProCentra (oral solution). It works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which improves focus, attention, and wakefulness. For a deeper dive, see our guide on what Dextroamphetamine is and how it's used.

Common Side Effects

These side effects are reported frequently and are usually mild, especially during the first few weeks of treatment or after a dose increase. Many improve over time as your body adjusts:

• Decreased appetite — This is one of the most common side effects. Many people notice they simply aren't hungry, especially during the hours the medication is active.
• Weight loss — Often a result of reduced appetite.
• Insomnia or difficulty sleeping — Stimulants can make it hard to fall asleep, particularly if taken too late in the day.
• Dry mouth — A frequent complaint that can usually be managed with water, sugar-free gum, or lozenges.
• Increased heart rate — A modest increase in resting heart rate is common.
• Nervousness or anxiety — Some people feel jittery or on edge, especially at higher doses.
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Stomach pain or nausea
• Irritability
• Restlessness

If any of these side effects persist or become bothersome, talk to your doctor. A dose adjustment or change in timing can often help.

Serious Side Effects

The following side effects are less common but require prompt medical attention. Contact your doctor right away — or call 911 — if you experience any of these:

• Cardiovascular events — Chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or irregular heartbeat. In rare cases, stimulants have been linked to heart attack, stroke, and sudden death, particularly in people with pre-existing heart conditions.
• Psychiatric symptoms — New or worsening psychosis (hearing voices, paranoia), mania, severe aggression, or suicidal thoughts. These are rare but have been reported.
• Peripheral vasculopathy (Raynaud's phenomenon) — Numbness, pain, or color changes (white, blue) in your fingers or toes. This is a sign of reduced blood flow to your extremities.
• Serotonin syndrome — Agitation, rapid heartbeat, high body temperature, muscle twitching, and confusion. This is most likely when Dextroamphetamine is taken with serotonergic drugs like SSRIs or SNRIs.
• Seizures — Especially in people with a history of seizure disorders.
• Signs of dependence — Needing higher doses to feel the same effect, inability to stop taking it, or withdrawal symptoms (fatigue, depression, sleep disturbances) when stopping.

Boxed warning: Dextroamphetamine carries an FDA boxed warning about its high potential for abuse and dependence. Misuse of amphetamines can cause sudden death and serious cardiovascular events.

Side Effects in Specific Populations

Children and Adolescents

In addition to the side effects listed above, children taking Dextroamphetamine may experience growth suppression — a slowing of height and weight gain. Doctors typically monitor growth at regular intervals and may recommend drug holidays during school breaks to allow catch-up growth.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

Dextroamphetamine is classified as Pregnancy Category C, meaning animal studies have shown potential risk and there aren't enough studies in humans. It should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the risk. It is not recommended during breastfeeding, as amphetamines can pass into breast milk.

Older Adults

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to cardiovascular side effects like increased heart rate and blood pressure. Doctors typically use lower doses and monitor more closely.

People With Pre-Existing Conditions

If you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, or substance abuse, your risk of serious side effects is higher. Make sure your doctor knows your full medical history before starting Dextroamphetamine.

How to Manage Common Side Effects

Many side effects can be reduced or eliminated with simple strategies:

• For decreased appetite: Eat a good breakfast before your medication kicks in. Have calorie-dense snacks available. Eat a larger dinner when the medication has worn off.
• For insomnia: Take your last dose earlier in the day. Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening. Practice good sleep hygiene (consistent bedtime, dark room, no screens before bed).
• For dry mouth: Sip water throughout the day. Use sugar-free gum or lozenges. Consider a saliva substitute if it's severe.
• For headaches: Stay hydrated and make sure you're eating enough. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help, but check with your pharmacist first.
• For anxiety or jitteriness: This may indicate your dose is too high. Talk to your doctor about adjusting it. Limiting caffeine can also help.
• For stomach pain: Taking Dextroamphetamine with food may reduce stomach discomfort.

Final Thoughts

Most people who take Dextroamphetamine experience some side effects, particularly in the first few weeks. The good news is that many of these are manageable and tend to improve over time. The key is to stay in close communication with your prescriber, report any new or worsening symptoms, and never adjust your dose on your own.

If you're currently taking Dextroamphetamine and having trouble finding it at your pharmacy, Medfinder can help you locate pharmacies with it in stock.