From the Guidelines
Dexamphetamine can enhance cognitive function in individuals with ADHD by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, but its use should be strictly limited to medical supervision for diagnosed conditions. The medication's effectiveness in improving attention, focus, and executive function is well-documented, particularly in patients with attention disorders 1. However, in healthy individuals without ADHD, the cognitive benefits of dexamphetamine are less clear and may be offset by side effects such as insomnia, decreased appetite, increased heart rate, and anxiety.
When prescribed appropriately, dexamphetamine typically starts at 5-10mg daily, potentially increasing to 20-40mg daily divided into multiple doses. The choice of dosage and formulation should be individualized based on the patient's symptom profile and needs, taking into account the pharmacokinetic profiles of different long-acting formulations 1. Regular monitoring of pulse, blood pressure, height, and weight is essential to manage potential side effects, particularly in patients with preexisting cardiovascular diseases or those who may be at risk of reduced growth due to stimulant treatment 1.
It is crucial to emphasize that dexamphetamine should only be used under medical supervision for diagnosed conditions like ADHD, as non-prescribed use for cognitive enhancement carries significant health risks and legal implications. Long-term use of dexamphetamine can lead to dependence and cardiovascular issues, and users should be aware of the potential for mood changes, excessive stimulation, or cardiovascular symptoms 1. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are essential to assess the effectiveness of treatment and manage potential side effects.
Key considerations for the use of dexamphetamine in ADHD treatment include:
- Individualization of dosage and formulation based on patient needs and symptom profile
- Regular monitoring of pulse, blood pressure, height, and weight
- Awareness of potential side effects, including insomnia, decreased appetite, increased heart rate, and anxiety
- Risk of dependence and cardiovascular issues with long-term use
- Importance of medical supervision and regular follow-ups to assess treatment effectiveness and manage side effects.
From the Research
Effect of Dexamphetamine on Cognitive Function
- The impact of dexamphetamine on cognitive function has been studied in various research papers, with a focus on its effects in individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Studies have shown that dexamphetamine can improve attentional deficits, such as memory, vigilance, divided attention, phasic and tonic alertness, and focused attention in ADHD patients 2, 4, 5.
- However, the efficacy of dexamphetamine in improving other domains of cognition, such as academic performance and executive function, remains inconclusive due to conflicting evidence or insignificant findings 2, 6.
- Research suggests that dexamphetamine may improve only select domains of cognition, such as memory and attention, and that its effects on cognition may be related to its impact on physiological arousal 2, 6.
- A study on the effectiveness and safety of dexamphetamine sulfate in children and adolescents with ADHD found significant reductions in ADHD symptoms and improvements in attention and hyperactivity/impulsivity subscales 5.
- Another study found that dexamphetamine had a significant therapeutic response in adults with ADHD, with improvements in symptoms and patient satisfaction 4.
- However, a review of the literature on the cognitive effects of stimulant medications, including dexamphetamine, found that they do not promote learning and academic achievement in adults with ADHD, and may not consistently improve performance on tests of distractibility and planning 6.