What Is Dextrostat (Dextroamphetamine)?
Dextrostat was a brand name for dextroamphetamine sulfate, a powerful central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. As a prescription medication, its primary function is to increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. While the Dextrostat brand has been discontinued, generic formulations of dextroamphetamine, along with other brand names like Dexedrine, are still available for therapeutic use. Because of its potent effects on the CNS, dextroamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), indicating a high potential for abuse and dependence.
FDA-Approved Uses for Dextrostat (Dextroamphetamine)
Dextroamphetamine has two primary, FDA-approved medical uses:
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): For patients diagnosed with ADHD, dextroamphetamine can significantly improve their ability to focus, control impulsive behaviors, and reduce hyperactivity. This medication is intended to be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that often includes counseling and educational support. It is approved for both adult and pediatric populations, with different dosage guidelines depending on the patient's age.
- Narcolepsy: As a CNS stimulant, dextroamphetamine is effective in treating the excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy. By promoting wakefulness, it helps patients with this chronic sleep disorder stay alert throughout the day. In the context of narcolepsy, treatment with stimulants like dextroamphetamine is considered effective, although newer medications may sometimes be preferred by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
How Does Dextroamphetamine Work?
As a sympathomimetic amine, dextroamphetamine works by stimulating the release of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a critical role in regulating attention, motivation, and the brain's reward system. For individuals with ADHD, imbalances in these neurotransmitter systems are thought to contribute to their symptoms. By increasing the activity of these chemicals, dextroamphetamine helps to normalize brain function and alleviate core symptoms. In the context of narcolepsy, this increased neurotransmitter activity in brain regions responsible for wakefulness helps counteract excessive sleepiness.
Important Side Effects and Safety Information
While effective for its intended uses, dextroamphetamine carries a risk of various side effects, ranging from mild to severe. It is crucial for patients and their caregivers to be aware of these potential reactions and to communicate openly with their healthcare provider.
Common side effects may include:
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Nervousness
- Upset stomach or diarrhea
Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include:
- Cardiovascular issues, such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and palpitations
- Psychiatric symptoms, including new or worsening aggression, anxiety, mania, or hallucinations
- Exacerbation of pre-existing psychosis or bipolar disorder
- Circulation problems in fingers and toes (Raynaud's phenomenon)
- Sudden death, especially in patients with pre-existing heart problems
- Seizures
Pediatric patients taking dextroamphetamine should be monitored for potential effects on growth rate and weight gain.
Dextrostat vs. Other Amphetamine Medications
Dextrostat, though no longer available, was a brand name for a single-ingredient dextroamphetamine medication. Other stimulants used for similar conditions have different compositions. A notable comparison is with Adderall, a widely known stimulant medication. For additional information, consult the MedlinePlus drug information page.
| Feature | Dextrostat (Dextroamphetamine) | Adderall (Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Contains only dextroamphetamine. | Contains a mixture of dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine salts. |
| Potency | Considered more potent per milligram due to its exclusive focus on d-amphetamine. | The levoamphetamine component offers a milder, longer-lasting effect, leading to a more balanced overall effect. |
| Onset & Duration | Often known for a strong, fast-acting effect. | Provides a balanced effect, with a slower onset and potentially longer duration due to the mix of salts. |
| Forms | Generic forms are available as immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules (e.g., Dexedrine Spansule), and a liquid solution. | Available as immediate-release (IR) tablets and extended-release (XR) capsules. |
| Schedule Classification | Schedule II controlled substance. | Schedule II controlled substance. |
Conclusion
Dextrostat, as a brand, may be a relic of the past, but the active ingredient dextroamphetamine remains a valuable, albeit carefully managed, therapeutic agent for managing symptoms of ADHD and narcolepsy. It functions by increasing key neurotransmitters in the brain, which helps to improve attention and control impulsivity in ADHD and combat excessive sleepiness in narcolepsy. Despite its efficacy, its status as a Schedule II controlled substance highlights its high potential for abuse and dependence, necessitating close medical supervision. Patients should be fully informed of the medication's benefits, side effects, and strict dosage guidelines to ensure safe and effective use. Alternatives like Adderall offer different formulations, and a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate treatment option based on an individual's specific needs and medical history.
