Amphetamine dextroamphetamine side effects
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Side Effects of Amphetamine Dextroamphetamine
Common Side Effects: Anorexia, Insomnia, Stomach Pains, and Weight Loss
Dextroamphetamine, commonly used in medications like Dexedrine, is associated with several side effects. The most frequently reported include anorexia, insomnia, stomach pains, and weight loss. These side effects are generally transient and tend to diminish as treatment continues and the medication is properly managed. However, there is evidence that weight loss can lead to growth suppression, although this effect does not appear to have a long-term impact on adult height or weight .
Neuroendocrine and Behavioral Responses
In a study involving normal individuals, dextroamphetamine was found to significantly increase feelings of well-being compared to a placebo. This was measured using the Amphetamine Interview Rating Scale and the Hopkins Mood Scale. Additionally, there was a significant increase in growth hormone (GH) levels following dextroamphetamine ingestion, although prolactin (PRL) levels decreased without a significant difference between the drug and placebo .
Paradoxical Drowsiness and Brain Activity
Interestingly, dextroamphetamine can cause paradoxical drowsiness in some individuals. In a study, 13 out of 20 adults exhibited drowsiness and lowered electrical brain activity within the first hour of taking the drug. Despite this initial drowsiness, heightened alertness was observed 2 to 3 hours post-drug administration .
Cognitive and Behavioral Effects in Children
In children, particularly those with hyperactivity or minimal brain dysfunction, dextroamphetamine has been shown to decrease motor activity and reaction time while improving cognitive test performance. This response is similar to that observed in normal children, suggesting that the drug's effects are not unique to those with hyperactivity disorders . However, frequent side effects were noted in hyperactive children treated with dextroamphetamine, emphasizing the need for individualized treatment plans .
Safety in Stroke Rehabilitation
In stroke rehabilitation, low-dose dextroamphetamine has been used without any reported side effects. This suggests that, under controlled conditions, the drug can be safely administered to enhance recovery from motor and language deficits post-stroke .
Psychomimetic Properties and Long-Term Effects
Long-term use of dextroamphetamine can lead to severe side effects, including paranoid psychosis. In a study with volunteers, eight out of nine subjects experienced paranoid psychosis after five days of supervised administration. This psychosis rapidly abated once the drug was discontinued. Additionally, long-term use was associated with feelings of depression rather than elation, possibly due to the depletion of catecholamines in the central nervous system .
Conclusion
Dextroamphetamine is a potent stimulant with a range of side effects, from common issues like anorexia and insomnia to more severe reactions such as paranoid psychosis with long-term use. While it can improve cognitive and behavioral performance in children and aid in stroke recovery, its administration must be carefully managed to mitigate adverse effects. Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term implications of its use.
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