Dexamfetamine

ADHD in children (6+) and young people who have responded to lisdexamfetamine but can’t tolerate its longer effect profile. In adults, used off-label when shorter-acting coverage is needed. Also used for narcolepsy.

Same active drug as released by lisdexamfetamine - dexamfetamine. Increases dopamine and noradrenaline release in the prefrontal cortex. Faster onset (30-60 minutes) and shorter duration (4-6 hours) than lisdexamfetamine because there’s no prodrug conversion step.

Patients who respond well to amphetamine-based medication but need a shorter duration than lisdexamfetamine. Useful for patients with sleep problems (medication wears off earlier), those who only need coverage for specific parts of the day, or as an evening top-up. Higher abuse potential than lisdexamfetamine (no prodrug protection). Same cardiovascular and psychiatric cautions as other stimulants.

Order online and we review your request. A prescriber checks your consultation form for clinical appropriateness and contacts you if anything else is needed. Once approved, your medication is dispensed and delivered to your door. Controlled drugs require additional clinical checks. We may need to contact you or your GP before dispensing.

Tracked: Tracked delivery, arrives in two working days - Free

When it arrives: Every order is sent tracked. Where this page says in post today, it goes out today. Where it says in post tomorrow, it goes out the next working day. On the rare occasions a medicine is unavailable, we will contact you to talk about timing and alternatives.

We dispense clinically equivalent generic medications where available. Prices shown are for the generic version. If you prefer the branded version, let us know in your order form and we will confirm any price difference.

Dexamfetamine from £44.99 per pack.

Very common: decreased appetite, insomnia, headache, dry mouth, nausea. Common: palpitations, tachycardia, weight loss, abdominal pain, mood changes (anxiety, irritability), tremor. Uncommon: psychotic symptoms (hallucinations, paranoia). Monitor: growth (in children), cardiovascular parameters, psychiatric symptoms.

Do not use in severe cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, hyperthyroidism, phaeochromocytoma, during or within 14 days of MAOIs. Use with caution in anxiety, psychosis, tics, seizure disorders, substance misuse history.

MAOIs: contraindicated (hypertensive crisis). Antihypertensives: stimulants may reduce their effect. SSRIs: caution with serotonergic effects. Alcohol: avoid.

Limited data in pregnancy. Stimulants may affect fetal growth. Use only if benefit clearly outweighs risk. Discuss with specialist before conception. Not recommended during breastfeeding.

Take 2-3 times daily. Last dose no later than mid-afternoon to protect sleep. Higher abuse and diversion potential than lisdexamfetamine - prescribe with appropriate caution. Appetite suppression, insomnia, increased heart rate and blood pressure are common side effects. Schedule 2 controlled drug. Maximum 30-day supply. Non-stimulants are used when stimulants aren’t tolerated, haven’t worked after adequate trials of both methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, or when there are specific clinical reasons to avoid stimulants (significant anxiety, active tic disorder, substance misuse concerns, or cardiovascular contraindications). They’re not controlled drugs and can be prescribed for longer than 30 days at a time.