This is the d-isomer of AMPHETAMINE. It is classified as a PSY-CHOMOTOR STIMULANT drug and is three to four times as potent as the l-isomer in eliciting central nervous system (CNS) excitatory effects. It is also more potent than the l-isomer in its ANORECTIC (appetite suppressant) activity, but slightly less potent in its cardiovascular actions. It is prescribed in the treatment of narcolepsy and OBESITY, although care must be taken in such prescribing because of the substantial ABUSE LIABILITY.

High-dose chronic use of dextroamphetamine can lead to the development of a toxic psychosis as well as to other physiological and behavioral problems. This toxicity became a problem in the United States in the 1960s, when substantial amounts of the drug were being taken for nonmedical reasons. Although still abused by some, dextroamphetamine is no longer the stimulant of choice for most psychomotor stimulant abusers.

See Also

Amphetamine Epidemics; Cocaine)