CNS stimulant (Schedule 2 CD)

Dexamfetamine sulfate

Brand names: Amfexa

Adult dose

Dose: ADHD: titrate from 5mg OD–BD up to 1mg/kg/day per protocol

Route: Oral

Frequency: OD–TDS

Clinical pearls

NICE NG87 ADHD: dexamfetamine option after methylphenidate / lisdexamfetamine trials
Schedule 2 CD — strict prescribing
Specialist initiation; growth and CV monitoring in paediatrics

Contraindications

Cardiovascular disease
Severe hypertension
Hyperthyroidism
Mania / psychosis
Glaucoma
Concurrent or recent MAOI
Pregnancy
Hypersensitivity

Side effects

Reduced appetite / weight loss / growth retardation (children)
Insomnia
Tachycardia/hypertension
Anxiety
Tics
Dependence and abuse
Cardiac events
Psychosis

Interactions

MAOIs (avoid)
Tricyclics
Alkalinising agents (delay excretion)

Monitoring

BP
HR
Weight / height (children)
Mental state
Tics

Reference: BNF; NICE NG87; MDR Schedule 2; https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/dexamfetamine-sulfate/. Verify against your local formulary and the latest BNF before prescribing.

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Pathways