Dextroamphetamine pharmacology
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers for "dextroamphetamine pharmacology"
Dextroamphetamine Pharmacology: Mechanism of Action and Neurotransmitter Effects
Dextroamphetamine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that primarily works by increasing the release of catecholamines, especially noradrenaline and dopamine, from nerve terminals in the brain. It also inhibits the reuptake of these neurotransmitters, particularly within the mesocorticolimbic system, which is a key part of the brain's reward pathway. This leads to behavioral effects such as increased alertness, euphoria, and improved attention, but also carries a high potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction if used in large doses over time .
Pharmacokinetics and Drug Delivery Systems
Dextroamphetamine can be administered in various forms, including oral tablets, sustained-release formulations, and more recently, a transdermal patch (d-ATS). The transdermal system offers an alternative for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills or prefer not to take oral medications. The patch allows for flexible wear times, which can help tailor the duration of stimulant effects to individual needs. However, skin irritation is a possible side effect, in addition to the typical stimulant-related adverse effects .
Effects on Brain Function and Glucose Metabolism
When administered intravenously, dextroamphetamine increases glucose metabolism in several brain regions, including subcortical, limbic, frontal, and cerebellar areas, while decreasing metabolism in the temporal cortex. These changes reflect both the direct pharmacological action on monoaminergic neurotransmitter systems and the enhancement of neural networks involved in attention and cognitive tasks .
Clinical Uses: ADHD, Addiction, and Pain Management
Dextroamphetamine is widely used as a first-line treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in both children and adults, improving attention and reducing hyperactivity . In clinical trials for methamphetamine addiction, sustained-release dextroamphetamine did not significantly reduce methamphetamine use, but it did lower withdrawal and craving scores, suggesting potential benefits in managing dependence symptoms .
In pain management, dextroamphetamine has been studied as an adjuvant to opioid analgesia. When combined with morphine, it enhances analgesic effects and counteracts opioid-induced sedation, leading to improved alertness and pain relief. This combination has shown increased potency compared to morphine alone, with minimal effects on vital signs . Similar benefits have been observed in adolescents with cancer, where dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate helped reduce opioid-induced somnolence and improved patient interaction .
Other Therapeutic Considerations
There is evidence that dextroamphetamine may have antimanic effects in certain cases, such as in brain-injured adolescents who do not respond to standard mood stabilizers. This suggests a possible role for dextroamphetamine in specific subtypes of bipolar disorder, although more research is needed .
Safety and Side Effects
Common side effects of dextroamphetamine include increased blood pressure, reduced appetite, and the risk of abuse and dependence. When used in combination with other medications, such as opioids, it may help offset some undesirable effects like sedation, but careful monitoring is necessary 36.
Conclusion
Dextroamphetamine is a potent CNS stimulant with diverse pharmacological effects, primarily mediated through increased catecholamine release and reuptake inhibition. It is effective in treating ADHD, can be useful as an adjunct in pain management, and may have roles in addiction therapy and mood disorders. However, its high potential for abuse and side effects requires careful patient selection and monitoring 1234567.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic