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CNS stimulant (Schedule 2 CD)

Dexamfetamine sulfate

Brand names: Amfexa

Dexamfetamine is a CNS stimulant used, under specialist supervision, for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and for narcolepsy.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It increases synaptic dopamine and noradrenaline by promoting their release and blocking reuptake, enhancing attention and arousal in the central nervous system.

Prescribing in practice

  • It can raise blood pressure and heart rate, so cardiovascular status must be assessed before starting and treatment avoided in significant cardiovascular disease.
  • It is a controlled drug with potential for misuse and diversion, requiring secure handling and appropriate prescribing safeguards.
  • In children, growth (height and weight) should be monitored as stimulants can suppress appetite and growth, and a children's formulary consulted for paediatric use.

Monitoring

Monitor blood pressure, heart rate, weight and (in children) growth, alongside psychiatric symptoms and any emergent tics or agitation.

Counselling the patient

  • Tell your doctor about any palpitations, chest pain or fainting.
  • It can reduce appetite and affect sleep, so take it as directed earlier in the day.
  • Keep it secure and do not share it, as it is a controlled medicine.

Evidence & guidelines

NICE guidance positions stimulants such as dexamfetamine within the pharmacological management of ADHD under specialist care.

Reference: NICE NG87; MDR Schedule 2; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Pathways