Dexedrine is a potent stimulant prescribed for conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy, which is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness. The drug’s ability to enhance mental focus and induce feelings of euphoria makes it a popular, yet dangerous drug of abuse. Many individuals abuse Dexedrine for its stimulant effects, seeking increased productivity or a high, which can lead to dependence and addiction.
Dexedrine has become increasingly misused in the UK, with addiction and abuse of this class of drugs on the rise in certain age groups. Studies estimate that 0.5 percent of the UK population abuses amphetamines, which has contributed to a steady increase in amphetamine-related deaths over the past decade. Dexedrine is used to treat narcolepsy and is considered a treatment option for this condition. However, Dexedrine carries a high risk of abuse and addiction.
At PCP we are committed to educating readers on the dangers of prescription stimulant abuse and how to overcome an addiction to stimulant drugs like Dexedrine.
This article explores the scope of Dexedrine abuse in the UK, the drug’s effects on the body, and the treatment options available for those struggling with dependence on this powerful substance.
What Is Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine sulfate)?
Dexedrine is a brand name for dextroamphetamine sulfate (also called D-amphetamine), which is the active ingredient in this medication.
Dextroamphetamine is a strong central nervous system (CNS) stimulant similar to other prescription stimulants like methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin), dextroamphetamine/amphetamine (Adderall), and methamphetamine (Desoxyn).
A stimulant is a psychoactive drug that increases activity in the nervous system. This causes heightened alertness and energy, heightened focus, and an elevated mood.
Stimulants are some of the most commonly prescribed medications in the UK and are used to treat several medical conditions associated with poor focus and difficulty staying awake.
Unfortunately, stimulants like Dexedrine and its extended-release form – Dexedrine Spansule – are also often abused. Dexedrine Spansule is an extended release capsule formulation, designed to provide a longer duration of effect compared to immediate-release tablets. These drugs are misused as study aids by college students and academics because they can enhance focus.
They are also illegally used as performance-enhancing drugs by athletes, as well as taken recreationally because of their ability to create a feeling of euphoria and enhanced sexual pleasure when taken at higher doses.
Dexedrine is tightly regulated. It is classified as a controlled drug due to its potential for misuse, illegal sale, and associated risks such as abuse or side effects.
However, abusing stimulant medications can lead to dependence and addiction, as well as several other dangerous side effects. Misuse could involve taking these drugs at dangerously high levels, for longer than prescribed, or without a prescription.
Always consult the medication guide for Dexedrine for important safety and usage information before starting or refilling your prescription.
How Does Dexedrine Work on the Central Nervous System?
The entire nervous system, which includes the brain, is controlled by special substances called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters allow nerves within the body to communicate with each other and cells.
Some neurotransmitters, known as excitatory neurotransmitters, enhance the activity of the brain and body by activating the flight-or-fight response. This leads to increased alertness, a faster heartbeat, and improved muscular endurance.
Some other neurotransmitters have the opposite effect. They activate processes within the body associated with the rest-and-digest response, often leading to drowsiness and reduced energy levels. These are called inhibitory neurotransmitters or depressants.
Dextroamphetamine works by increasing the level of excitatory neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. It does this by preventing the nerves from breaking down or reabsorbing the substances once they have been released. This allows these excitatory substances to remain in the brain longer and in significantly higher quantities. The effects of dextroamphetamine include increased alertness, improved focus, and elevated mood, but it can also cause side effects such as increased heart rate, insomnia, and anxiety.
Because dextroamphetamine increases serotonin, there is a risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, and changes in mental status, especially if combined with other serotonergic drugs or taken in high doses.
Misuse of Dexedrine can lead to physical dependence, highlighting the physiological aspect of drug misuse. It is important to understand how this medicine affects different body systems and to monitor for any adverse reactions under medical supervision.
What Is the Medication Used For in Treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
Dexedrine is a stimulant medication. It is commonly used for treating ADHD and is an important part of the treatment of ADHD. Dexedrine is prescribed to treat ADHD and to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Prescription stimulant medications like Dexedrine are often used to treat conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – a condition where people often struggle with paying attention, staying still, and controlling impulses – and narcolepsy – a sleep disorder where people feel extremely sleepy during the day and may suddenly fall asleep. Stimulant medications like Dexedrine help manage core ADHD symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
How Does Dexedrine Addiction Occur?
Some of these neurotransmitters, like dopamine, are associated with the reward system. The reward system is a term used to refer to different parts of the brain that work together to control the way we physically and mentally process the concept of ‘reward’.
‘Reward’ in this situation means the positive feelings the brain associates with a diverse range of pleasurable activities, substances, and situations. This is a complex process that involves different parts of the brain and is still poorly understood.
Certain parts of the brain release neurotransmitters like dopamine when we carry out certain activities that are beneficial to survival. This usually includes activities like eating sugary food, social bonding, or sexual intimacy. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter largely responsible for the pleasure we experience during these activities.
Unfortunately, dextroamphetamine and several other stimulants also increase dopamine levels within the brain. Research has also shown that certain stimulants release more dopamine than normal pleasurable activities. Animal studies have provided important insights into the biomolecular mechanisms of addiction, showing how stimulant use can alter gene expression and neural pathways involved in reward. Eventually, addicts lose interest in other activities and can only find pleasure in further consumption of the drug. Drug abuse, particularly the misuse of prescription stimulants like Dexedrine, can lead to addiction and increases the risk of developing substance use disorder.
Is Dexedrine a Schedule II Controlled Substance?
In the UK, dextroamphetamine is a Class B controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 which includes other psychoactive substances like cannabis, barbiturates, and codeine.
It is also listed as a Schedule 2 drug under the UK’s Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001. This means that while it has recognized medical uses, it is also tightly regulated and requires a prescription due to its potential for abuse and dependence. Additionally, dextroamphetamine, found in medications like Dexedrine and Adderall, is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, indicating a significant risk for misuse and dependence, similar to other prescription stimulants. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also classifies Dexedrine as a controlled substance and provides important safety guidance regarding its use.
How Is Dexedrine Abused?
Dexedrine pills are often swallowed. However, it can be abused in other ways to intensify its effects like being snorted, smoked, injected, or chewed.
However, these alternatives usually have more severe side effects. For example, snorting Dexedrine can lead to nosebleeds and injection drug users are at a higher risk of contracting diseases like hepatitis and HIV.
Sometimes Dexedrine can be combined with other drugs or alcohol, a practice called polydrug use. Drinking alcohol or combining Dexedrine with alcohol may increase the risk of dangerous side effects such as dizziness and should be avoided. Combining Dexedrine with street drugs can also increase the risk of severe side effects and addiction. Always inform your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including over the counter drugs, to avoid dangerous interactions. This often leads to more severe side effects, as well as a higher risk of addiction and overdose.
Signs of Dexedrine Abuse
Changes in behaviour like:
● mood swings
● bouts of hyperactivity
● aggression
● difficulty sleeping
● social withdrawal
● memory problems
● financial problems
● persistent drug cravings
● taking larger amounts of Dexedrine than usual
Physical signs like:
● dilated pupils
● weight loss
● tremors
● excessive sweating
● frequent nose bleeds
● teeth grinding
● poor personal and dental hygiene
You might also find drug paraphernalia or suspicious items like:
● pill bottles or blister packs
● crushed pills or powder residue
● rolled-up bills, straws, or hollowed-out pens
● spoons or foil
● syringes
● small baggies
● razor blades or cards
If you notice a combination of these signs in someone, it may suggest stimulant abuse. It’s important to approach the situation with care and seek professional help. The widespread misuse of prescription amphetamines, including Dexedrine, is a growing concern, with national surveys revealing significant drug use and misuse among various demographics.
Signs of a Dexedrine Overdose
These could involve:
● severe agitation
● chest pain
● extreme anxiety or paranoia
● hallucinations
● a rapid or irregular heartbeat
● high blood pressure
● difficulty breathing
● seizures
In severe cases, an overdose could lead to loss of consciousness or a heart attack.
If you suspect someone has overdosed on Dexedrine, call emergency services immediately. While waiting for medical help, try to keep the person calm and in a safe position, such as lying on their side to prevent choking in case of vomiting. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless directed by a medical professional.
How To Recognise a Dexedrine Addiction
Diagnosing a drug addiction should only be done by a qualified healthcare provider. However, there are some common features usually seen in a Dexedrine addiction.
● Using larger amounts or taking Dexedrine for longer than originally intended.
● Persistent cravings.
● Repeated unsuccessful attempts to control drug use.
● Spending a significant amount of time on obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of the drug.
● Dexedrine use negatively affects performance at work, school, or home.
● Avoiding important social, work, or recreational activities because of drug use.
● Using drugs in dangerous situations or drug use leads to dangerous situations.
● Continuing to use drugs despite physical or psychological problems caused by drug use.
● Continuing to use drugs despite interpersonal problems caused by drug use.
● Requiring larger doses of the Dexedrine to achieve the same desired effect.
● Experiencing uncomfortable symptoms when drug use stops.
A family history of addiction, heart problems, or mental health issues such as bipolar disorder or Tourette’s syndrome can increase the risk of Dexedrine addiction. Individuals with bipolar disorder or Tourette’s syndrome should consult a healthcare provider before using Dexedrine.
Overcoming a Dexedrine Addiction
Acknowledge Your Addiction
The first step to recovery is acknowledging an addiction to stimulants and recognizing the negative consequences it has on different aspects of the user’s life. This also includes making a conscious decision to quit stimulant abuse.
During this process, highlighting personal reasons for quitting stimulant abuse helps in maintaining long-term sobriety. For example, “To progress in my career and get a promotion this year” or “To improve my relationship with my children”.
Seek Professional Help
Overcoming an addiction to dextroamphetamine can be challenging, especially if attempted alone. Addiction treatment specialists like PCP can offer expert guidance through a combination of the best therapies, medications, and aftercare services to overcome drug dependence.
Reaching out to a recovery expert is a critical step. They can provide information on various treatment options, including detoxification, inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation services, and aftercare programs. This personalized approach takes into account each unique circumstance and determines the best path to recovery. Dexedrine addiction treatment often involves evidence-based behavioural therapies and customized treatment plans to cater to different levels of addiction, ensuring comprehensive care and support.
Detox
Detoxification (commonly called a detox) is an important part of recovery and often one of the most challenging. Drug addiction is a complex process that involves both physical and mental challenges. A detox involves allowing the body to naturally get rid of these substances over time.
Unfortunately, the detox process often comes with unpleasant symptoms known as ‘withdrawal symptoms’. Withdrawal occurs because the brain has adjusted to the long-term presence of these drugs and has to re-adjust as they are slowly removed from the body.
How long a detox takes and the symptoms people experience during the process can differ widely. This may be due to the severity and duration of substance abuse, co-existing diseases, polydrug use, as well as personal characteristics.
A Dexedrine detox can take anywhere from several days to weeks. Most people experience the worst of the withdrawal symptoms during the first few days. These initial symptoms may include a depressed mood, sleep disturbances, fatigue, appetite changes, and drug cravings.
Most symptoms taper off within the first week, but drug cravings and certain underlying psychotic disorders may persist for weeks and require further therapy.
A Dexedrine detox programme can often be performed safely at home and may simply require regular check-ins. However, some people may need a medically supervised detox which involves intensive monitoring, as well as medications and treatments to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. This is advisable for individuals with severe addictions, polydrug use, previous failed attempts at quitting or co-existing mental health conditions.
Rehabilitation Services
After the detox process, most patients go through a period of rehabilitation. This involves counselling and therapy techniques like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), contingency management, stress-management techniques, and motivational interviewing. Individual, group, and family therapy also plays a key role during this process.
Patients are offered medications and treatments to help ease the discomfort of withdrawal and cravings. Aside from medications they are encouraged to adopt healthier lifestyle choices like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and engaging in hobbies with many rehab centres offering both inpatient and outpatient services. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration emphasizes the importance of monitored detox and therapy, highlighting the role of certified mental health services in ensuring patient safety during withdrawal and recovery.
Inpatient services are better for individuals with co-existing mental health challenges, severe withdrawal symptoms, and complicated dependencies. Outpatient services can be performed at home and involve regular check-ins with the rehabilitation program, as well as therapy and medications.
Aftercare
Aftercare involves ongoing counselling, social support services, and medical treatment after the initial rehabilitation. The goal of aftercare is to empower individuals in recovery with the tools they need to maintain sobriety during everyday life.
Aftercare services include:
● Continued therapy, medical therapies, and counselling.
● Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous.
● Providing sober living arrangements like transitional housing.
● Helping with employment and providing financial education.
● Providing legal assistance.
● Improving family and community relationships.
● Monitoring individual progress via regular check-ins and promoting accountability through mentors or sponsors.
Seek Help at PCP
Dexedrine addiction is a serious issue in the UK, with far-reaching consequences for individuals and society. Addressing this challenge requires a combination of education, professional intervention, and community support. If you or someone you know is struggling with Dexedrine abuse, it’s crucial to seek help immediately. Recovery is possible, and taking the first step toward it could save a life. American Addiction Centers is a leading provider of addiction treatment programs, offering support and resources tailored to individuals’ needs.
Contact our expert team at PCP to explore personalized treatment options and start your journey to a healthier, drug-free future. Don’t wait—take action now for lasting change.
