dextroamphetamine

noun

: a drug consisting of the dextrorotatory form of amphetamine that is usually administered in the form of its sulfate (C9H13N)2·H2SO4 chiefly in the treatment of narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Note: Dextroamphetamine is a strong stimulant of the central nervous system and is a common drug of abuse.

Examples of dextroamphetamine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Patients who took 30 milligrams or more of dextroamphetamine − or 40 milligrams of Adderall − developed psychosis and mania nearly 5.3 times more often than those who did not take the medication, according to the study published Thursday in the American Journal of Psychiatry. Ken Alltucker, USA TODAY, 12 Sep. 2024 The drugs include Adderall, Vyvanse and generic amphetamines, such as dextroamphetamine. Akshay Syal, M.d., NBC News, 12 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dextroamphetamine was in 1943

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Cite this Entry

“Dextroamphetamine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dextroamphetamine. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

dextroamphetamine

noun
: a drug consisting of dextrorotatory amphetamine that is usually administered in the form of its sulfate (C9H13N)2·H2SO4, chiefly in the treatment of narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Note: Trademarks for preparations containing dexamphetamine include Adderall and Dexedrine. It is a strong stimulant of the central nervous system and is a common drug of abuse.

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