Amphetamine Dose Conversion Guidelines

Introduction to Conversion

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends Dexedrine contains only dextroamphetamine 1

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry suggests Dexedrine IR 22.5 mg BID (morning and early afternoon) 1
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recommends Dexedrine IR 15 mg TID (morning, midday, early afternoon) for more consistent coverage throughout the day 4
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends Dexedrine Spansule 15 mg in morning, plus 15 mg IR at midday, plus 15 mg IR early afternoon, or Dexedrine Spansule 30 mg once daily in morning for extended coverage 1

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises to start with the calculated equivalent dose (45 mg/day) but be prepared to adjust by 5 mg increments weekly based on response 3, 5
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists warns that the maximum recommended daily dose for amphetamines is 40-50 mg/day 3, 2
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends monitoring blood pressure and pulse at baseline and with any dose adjustments 3, 5
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests monitoring for common side effects including insomnia, anorexia, headaches, and weight loss 3
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises weighing patient at each visit to monitor for appetite suppression 3, 5
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends allowing at least one week between any dose adjustments to properly evaluate response 3, 5

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists warns to avoid late afternoon or evening doses to minimize sleep disturbances 1, 3
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises not to continue escalating beyond maximum recommended doses if inadequate response occurs - instead reassess diagnosis and consider alternative treatments 3, 2
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists notes that approximately 70% respond to a single stimulant, but nearly 90% respond if both amphetamine and methylphenidate are tried 2