Dextroamphetamine 5 mg is a low-dose stimulant medication used mainly for ADHD and narcolepsy. It’s the dextro isomer of amphetamine and is a prescription, usually controlled (in the U.S., a schedule II drug).
What a 5 mg dose means and how it’s used (general info)
- Forms: Often available as a 5 mg tablet (immediate-release). Other strengths exist (e.g., 10 mg, 20 mg) and there are extended-release formulations as well.
- ADHD: Typical starting point is 5 mg once daily in the morning. Doses can be increased in small increments (commonly 5 mg per week) until symptoms improve or side effects become limiting. Common daily ranges are up to about 40 mg/day; some people may need more or less depending on response.
- Narcolepsy: Often started at 5 mg once or twice daily, with potential gradual increases up to higher total daily doses (sometimes up to 60 mg/day in divided doses) if needed and tolerated.
- Duration: Immediate-release forms last around 4–6 hours per dose (dose timing is planned to minimize insomnia). Extended-release forms last longer.
Safety and precautions (highlights)
- Schedule II controlled substance with potential for abuse and dependence.
- Do not use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within roughly 14 days of stopping them.
- Cautions: heart disease, high blood pressure, arrhythmias, significant anxiety or bipolar disorder, glaucoma, or a history of stimulant misuse.
- Possible interactions: other stimulants, caffeine, certain antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs/SNRIs), and some blood pressure or thyroid medications.
- Common side effects: insomnia, decreased appetite/weight loss, dry mouth, stomach upset, increased heart rate and blood pressure, dizziness, anxiety or irritability. Rarely, it can cause mood changes or symptoms of psychosis.
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding: discuss with a clinician; stimulant use in pregnancy has considerations.
If you’re asking about dosing for yourself
- Please don’t adjust a prescription on your own. If you’re starting this medication or considering changes, talk with your clinician about the right dose, schedule, and monitoring.
- If you have a prescription, I can help you understand typical dosing ranges or discuss possible side effects to watch for.
If you can share a bit more about what you’re looking for ( ADHD vs narcolepsy, you have a prescription vs considering starting, any health conditions or other meds), I can tailor the information further.