Wilshire Pharmaceuticals – Dextroamphetamine
Wilshire Pharmaceuticals is a U.S. manufacturer that produces generic dextroamphetamine tablets (often marketed under the brand name “Zybalin” or “Dexedrine” in earlier formulations). Dextroamphetamine is an oral central‑nervous‑system stimulant that is approved for the treatment of Attention‑Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents, and adults, and for narcolepsy in adults.
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1. What is dextroamphetamine?
| Feature | Details |
|---------|---------|
| Chemical class | Amphetamine – a sympathomimetic stimulant. |
| Mechanism of action | Increases synaptic concentrations of dopamine and norepinephrine by reversing the dopamine/norepinephrine transporter and promoting release; also blocks reuptake. |
| Therapeutic effects | • Improved attention, focus, and impulse control in ADHD.
• Reduced excessive sleepiness in narcolepsy.
• Short‑term weight loss when used as an appetite suppressant (rarely used for this). |
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2. Typical dosage forms & strengths
| Strength | Common dosage form |
|----------|--------------------|
| 5 mg | Immediate‑release (IR) tablets, capsules, or liquid |
| 10 mg | IR tablets or capsules |
| 20 mg | IR tablets or capsules |
| 30 mg | IR tablets or capsules |
Wilshire’s generic version is usually an immediate‑release formulation. (Extended‑release versions exist under other brand names but are not manufactured by Wilshire.)
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3. How it is prescribed
| Population | Typical starting dose | Titration guidance | Max daily dose |
|------------|----------------------|--------------------|----------------|
| Adults with ADHD | 5 mg once daily, or 5 mg twice daily | Increase by 5 mg every 3–7 days, as needed | 40 mg/day (split into 2–3 doses) |
| Children 6‑12 yrs | 5 mg once daily | Increase by 5 mg every 3–7 days | 20 mg/day |
| Children 3‑5 yrs | 1.25–2.5 mg once daily | Increase by 1.25 mg every 3–7 days | 5 mg/day |
| Adults with narcolepsy | 5 mg twice daily | Increase by 5 mg every 3–7 days | 30 mg/day |
These are general guidelines. Your prescriber will tailor the dose to your response and tolerability.
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4. Common side effects
| System | Symptoms |
|--------|----------|
| Central nervous system | Insomnia, headaches, anxiety, irritability, dizziness |
| Cardiovascular | Increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, palpitations |
| Gastrointestinal | Nausea, dry mouth, loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort |
| Others | Weight loss (often temporary), mood swings, decreased appetite for food |
Most side effects are dose‑related and may diminish with time. Persistent or severe symptoms should be reported to your healthcare provider.
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5. Contraindications & cautions
| Condition | Reason |
|-----------|--------|
| Severe cardiovascular disease | Risk of tachycardia, hypertension, arrhythmias |
| Thyrotoxicosis | Stimulant effect may exacerbate symptoms |
| Glaucoma | May increase intra‑ocular pressure |
| Severe anxiety or mania | Can worsen mood disorders |
| Severe hepatic or renal impairment | Dose adjustment may be required |
| Pregnancy (especially first trimester) | Potential teratogenicity; use only if benefits outweigh risks |
| Breastfeeding | Dextroamphetamine can pass into breast milk; consult provider |
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6. Drug interactions
| Drug | Interaction |
|------|-------------|
| MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, isocarboxazid) | Severe hypertension (additive sympathomimetic effect). Avoid. |
| Citrus fruits (grapefruit, Seville oranges) | Inhibit CYP3A4; may increase plasma levels. |
| SSRIs/SNRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, duloxetine) | May increase risk of serotonin syndrome or elevated blood pressure. |
| Beta‑blockers | May mask tachycardia; monitor heart rate. |
| Stimulants (e.g., methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine) | Additive CNS stimulation; risk of cardiac events. |
| Antihypertensives | Can blunt therapeutic effect; monitor BP. |
Always inform your prescriber of all medications, supplements, and over‑the‑counter drugs you’re taking.
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7. Storage & handling
- Store at room temperature (≤25 °C / 77 °F), away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Do not mix with other medications; keep in the original container.
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8. Legal status & compliance
- Schedule II controlled substance (U.S.). Prescribed with a prescription and a limited refills per DEA rules (generally 30 days’ supply for each prescription).
- Misuse can lead to serious legal consequences and health risks (e.g., addiction, cardiovascular events).
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9. When to seek medical help
- Severe chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or sudden vision changes – call emergency services.
- Signs of allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) – seek immediate care.
- Excessive agitation, aggression, or hallucinations – contact your prescriber.
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10. Bottom line
Wilshire Pharmaceuticals’ dextroamphetamine is a well‑studied, effective treatment for ADHD and narcolepsy, provided it is taken as prescribed under medical supervision. Its stimulant properties carry the usual risks of sympathomimetics—most notably cardiovascular and CNS effects—so ongoing monitoring by a healthcare professional is essential. If you’re prescribed this medication, work closely with your prescriber to fine‑tune the dose and address any side effects or concerns.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, adjusting, or stopping any medication.