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 — not shown for this use

The product information we hold does not support a dose for this page's specific use, route or population, so none is shown. Follow your local or national guideline, and confirm against the product SmPC.

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).

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Pathways