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CNS Stimulant (ADHD / Narcolepsy)

Dexamfetamine

Brand names: Amfexa, Dexedrine

Dexamfetamine is a central nervous system stimulant used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and of 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, mainly by promoting their release and blocking reuptake, enhancing central monoaminergic activity.

Prescribing in practice

  • As a controlled drug with potential for dependence and diversion, cardiovascular status should be assessed before treatment and it should be avoided in serious cardiac disease.
  • Growth, blood pressure and heart rate should be checked, and appetite suppression and weight loss are common.
  • Use a children's formulary for paediatric dosing and review the continued need for treatment periodically.

Monitoring

Monitor blood pressure, heart rate, weight and growth in children, mood and signs of misuse during treatment.

Counselling the patient

  • Take it as prescribed and do not exceed the dose; it is a controlled medicine.
  • Report palpitations, chest pain, fainting or marked mood changes.
  • It may reduce appetite; maintain regular meals.

Evidence & guidelines

NICE recommends stimulants including dexamfetamine as options for ADHD, supported by trial evidence.

Reference: NICE NG87 (ADHD); MHRA SPC Amfexa; MHRA cardiac warning for stimulants; 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.

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