Attentin (Dexamfetamine): Uses, Dosage & Side Effects
A prescription psychostimulant for the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents aged 6–17 years, used when methylphenidate has not provided adequate symptom control
Attentin contains the active substance dexamfetamine sulfate, a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant prescribed for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years. Attentin is specifically indicated as a second-line treatment when methylphenidate-based medications have not provided sufficient symptom relief. It enhances attention and concentration while reducing impulsive behavior, and is always used as part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes psychological, educational, and social interventions. Treatment must be initiated and supervised by a specialist in behavioral disorders.
Quick Facts: Attentin
Key Takeaways
- Attentin (dexamfetamine) is a second-line ADHD treatment for children aged 6–17, prescribed only after methylphenidate has been tried without sufficient effect, under specialist supervision.
- The usual dose ranges from 5 mg to 20 mg daily, starting low and increasing gradually; the maximum recommended dose is 20 mg per day (rarely up to 40 mg in exceptional cases).
- Dexamfetamine is a controlled substance with recognized potential for misuse and dependence; the prescribing specialist will carefully monitor for signs of abuse throughout treatment.
- Common side effects include decreased appetite, weight loss, insomnia, and nervousness; cardiovascular monitoring (heart rate and blood pressure) is required before and during treatment.
- Growth (height and weight) should be monitored regularly, and the specialist may recommend periodic treatment breaks to assess whether the medication is still needed.
What Is Attentin and What Is It Used For?
Attentin tablets contain the active substance dexamfetamine sulfate, which belongs to a class of medications known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants or psychostimulants. Dexamfetamine is the dextrorotatory (right-handed) isomer of amphetamine and is approximately twice as potent as racemic amphetamine in its stimulant effects on the central nervous system. The medication has been used in clinical medicine since the mid-20th century and remains one of the most extensively studied treatments for ADHD globally.
Dexamfetamine works by increasing the release and inhibiting the reuptake of the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline in key brain regions, particularly the prefrontal cortex and striatum. These areas are critical for executive functions such as attention, working memory, impulse control, and behavioral regulation. In individuals with ADHD, these neurotransmitter systems are thought to be underactive, and dexamfetamine helps restore more normal levels of signaling. This mechanism of action differs from methylphenidate, which primarily blocks reuptake without significantly promoting release, which is why some patients who do not respond to methylphenidate may benefit from dexamfetamine.
Attentin is specifically licensed for the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years. It is not intended for all children with ADHD; rather, it is reserved as a second-line pharmacological option for patients who have not achieved adequate symptom control with methylphenidate-based medications (such as Ritalin, Concerta, or Equasym). This prescribing restriction reflects the treatment algorithms recommended by major international guidelines, including those from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders, affecting approximately 5–7% of children and adolescents worldwide according to meta-analyses published in The Lancet Psychiatry. The condition is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning and development. While ADHD has a strong genetic component, with heritability estimates of 70–80%, environmental factors also play a role. Pharmacological treatment, when indicated, is always used as part of a multimodal approach that includes psychological interventions (such as cognitive behavioral therapy), educational support, and social strategies.
It is important to understand that Attentin does not cure ADHD but manages its symptoms. The medication helps improve attention span, reduce hyperactive behaviors, and decrease impulsivity, enabling children to function more effectively at school, at home, and in social situations. Treatment must be initiated and supervised by a physician who specializes in behavioral disorders in children and adolescents, such as a child psychiatrist or a pediatric neurologist. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the medication's effectiveness, adjust dosing, and screen for potential side effects.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and classified in both the ICD-11 (6A05) and DSM-5. It affects brain development and activity, leading to difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, excessive screen time, or dietary factors, although these can influence symptom severity. With appropriate treatment and support, most individuals with ADHD can lead successful and fulfilling lives.
What Should You Know Before Taking Attentin?
Contraindications
There are numerous situations in which Attentin must not be used. These contraindications are strictly observed because dexamfetamine, as a potent CNS stimulant and sympathomimetic agent, can significantly worsen certain underlying conditions. Your child must not take Attentin if any of the following apply:
- Allergy to dexamfetamine: Known hypersensitivity to dexamfetamine, other amphetamines, or any of the excipients in the formulation.
- Thyroid disorders: Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland), as stimulants can exacerbate thyroid-related cardiovascular symptoms.
- Glaucoma: Elevated intraocular pressure, as dexamfetamine can cause mydriasis (pupil dilation) and further increase eye pressure.
- Pheochromocytoma: A catecholamine-secreting adrenal tumor, as the additional sympathomimetic effects of dexamfetamine could trigger a hypertensive crisis.
- Eating disorders: Anorexia nervosa or other conditions characterized by appetite loss or refusal to eat, as dexamfetamine suppresses appetite.
- Severe hypertension or vascular disease: Very high blood pressure, narrowed blood vessels, advanced arteriosclerosis, or conditions causing pain in the arms or legs due to vascular compromise.
- Cardiovascular conditions: Heart attack (past or current), irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia), chest pain (angina pectoris), heart failure, structural heart disease, congenital heart defects, or cardiomyopathy.
- Cerebrovascular disease: History of stroke, cerebral aneurysm, vasculitis, or other conditions affecting blood vessels in the brain.
- Severe psychiatric conditions: Including psychosis, schizophrenia, borderline or psychopathic personality disorder, severe depression, suicidal ideation, bipolar disorder, or mania.
- MAO inhibitor use: Current treatment with or use within the past 14 days of a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), as the combination can cause a dangerous, potentially fatal hypertensive crisis.
- History of substance abuse: Any past misuse of or dependence on alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs.
- Tourette syndrome or tics: Pre-existing motor or vocal tics, or a family history of Tourette syndrome.
- Porphyria: A group of rare metabolic disorders affecting heme production.
Dexamfetamine increases heart rate and blood pressure. In rare cases, sudden death has been reported in patients with pre-existing structural cardiac abnormalities or other serious heart problems taking CNS stimulant medications. A thorough cardiovascular assessment, including personal and family history, is mandatory before treatment initiation. If the child develops chest pain, unexplained fainting (syncope), or exercise intolerance during treatment, seek immediate medical attention.
Warnings and Precautions
Even when the contraindications listed above do not apply, Attentin requires careful medical consideration and ongoing monitoring. Consult the prescribing specialist before starting treatment if your child has any of the following conditions:
- Blood, liver, or kidney disease: These conditions may affect how the body processes and eliminates dexamfetamine, potentially requiring dose adjustments or more frequent monitoring.
- History of seizures: Dexamfetamine may lower the seizure threshold. Children with epilepsy or a history of convulsions require careful monitoring, and the medication should be discontinued if seizure frequency increases.
- Psychiatric conditions not listed as contraindications: Including mood instability, unusual aggression, hallucinations, paranoia, agitation, anxiety, or depression. Stimulant medications can sometimes trigger or worsen these symptoms.
- Unstable personality: Caution is needed in children and adolescents with emerging personality difficulties, as stimulants can sometimes intensify emotional dysregulation.
- High blood pressure: While severe hypertension is a contraindication, mild to moderate elevation in blood pressure requires monitoring, as dexamfetamine typically increases blood pressure by 2–4 mmHg and heart rate by 3–6 beats per minute.
- Cardiac conditions not listed as contraindications: Any heart problem not specifically mentioned in the contraindications section should be discussed with the cardiologist and treating specialist before initiating treatment.
Before starting Attentin, the prescribing specialist will conduct a comprehensive assessment that includes a detailed personal and family medical history (particularly regarding cardiac events, sudden unexplained death, and psychiatric illness), physical examination including measurement of height, weight, blood pressure, and heart rate, and baseline assessment of psychiatric symptoms. The specialist will also inquire about the family history of tics or Tourette syndrome, and will discuss the potential for misuse and diversion of the medication, particularly in households with adolescents or adults who may have substance use vulnerabilities.
Dexamfetamine will produce positive results on drug screening tests for amphetamines. If your child is required to undergo any drug testing (for example, for sports participation or other purposes), inform the testing authority that the child is taking a prescribed amphetamine medication and provide documentation from the prescribing physician.
Effects on Growth
Stimulant medications for ADHD, including dexamfetamine, can suppress appetite and reduce caloric intake, which may lead to weight loss or reduced weight gain. Prolonged use has been associated with a temporary slowing of growth in both height and weight in some children. The prescribing specialist will regularly monitor your child's height and weight on growth charts and compare them to age- and sex-appropriate norms. If growth is significantly affected, the doctor may recommend temporary treatment breaks (sometimes called “drug holidays”), typically during school vacations, to allow for catch-up growth. Available evidence from long-term follow-up studies suggests that most children ultimately achieve their expected adult height, although some studies report a modest reduction (approximately 1–2 cm) in final adult height.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Attentin is primarily prescribed to children and adolescents, but this information is relevant for adolescent patients who may become pregnant. Available data from first-trimester exposure does not suggest an increased risk of congenital malformations, but dexamfetamine may increase the risk of pre-eclampsia (a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine after 20 weeks of pregnancy) and preterm birth. Newborns exposed to amphetamines during pregnancy may experience withdrawal symptoms including altered behavior, excessive crying, irritability, and pronounced fatigue.
If a patient becomes pregnant or plans to become pregnant, the prescribing specialist should be consulted immediately. Contraception should be discussed with female patients of childbearing potential. Dexamfetamine passes into breast milk, and the decision to continue or discontinue breastfeeding versus the medication should be made in consultation with the treating physician, weighing the benefits and risks for both the mother and infant.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Dexamfetamine may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or difficulty focusing in some patients. Children and adolescents taking Attentin should be advised that these effects may make it dangerous to ride bicycles, use machinery, climb, or participate in other activities that require alertness and coordination until they know how the medication affects them individually. Each patient is personally responsible for assessing their ability to perform these activities safely.
Important Information About Excipients
Attentin tablets contain isomalt (E953), a sugar alcohol. If your child has been told by a doctor that they have an intolerance to certain sugars, consult the prescribing physician before taking this medicine. Isomalt may have a mild laxative effect in some individuals, particularly at higher intakes.
How Does Attentin Interact with Other Drugs?
Dexamfetamine interacts with numerous other medications through pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic mechanisms. Because it affects the release and reuptake of dopamine and noradrenaline in the CNS, and also has significant sympathomimetic effects on the cardiovascular system, the potential for clinically important drug interactions is substantial. Always inform the prescribing specialist, pharmacist, or nurse about all medications your child is taking, has recently taken, or may be planning to take, including over-the-counter medicines and herbal remedies.
Major Interactions
| Interacting Drug | Effect | Clinical Advice |
|---|---|---|
| MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine) | Can cause a sudden, severe, and potentially fatal hypertensive crisis with hyperthermia and serotonin-like syndrome | Absolutely contraindicated. Must not be used concurrently or within 14 days of MAOI discontinuation. |
| Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, imipramine) | Dexamfetamine may enhance the effects of tricyclic antidepressants. Cardiovascular effects may be potentiated. | If combination is necessary, close cardiovascular monitoring is essential. Dose adjustments may be required. |
| SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline) | Increased risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with serotonergic drugs. SSRIs may also increase dexamfetamine levels. | Monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome (agitation, tremor, hyperthermia). Specialist supervision required. |
| Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol, phenothiazines) | Antipsychotics may block the therapeutic effects of dexamfetamine by antagonizing dopamine receptors. Dexamfetamine may counteract antipsychotic effects. | Concurrent use is generally not recommended. If unavoidable, requires careful specialist management. |
| Blood pressure medications (guanethidine, clonidine, reserpin, alpha-methyltyrosine, beta-blockers) | Dexamfetamine may reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs. Abrupt discontinuation of clonidine with ongoing stimulant use can cause rebound hypertension. | Blood pressure should be closely monitored. Dose adjustments of antihypertensive medication may be necessary. |
Other Important Interactions
| Interacting Drug | Effect | Clinical Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Antiepileptics (phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, ethosuximide) | Dexamfetamine may delay absorption of antiepileptic drugs. Antiepileptic levels may need to be monitored. | Monitor antiepileptic drug levels and seizure control. Dose adjustments may be needed. |
| Disulfiram | Disulfiram inhibits dopamine-beta-hydroxylase, which can alter dexamfetamine metabolism and potentiate its effects. | Concurrent use requires caution. Inform the prescribing specialist. |
| Coumarin anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) | Dexamfetamine may enhance the anticoagulant effect. INR should be monitored. | If combined, monitor INR more frequently, especially when starting or stopping dexamfetamine. |
| Lithium | Lithium may attenuate the stimulant effects of dexamfetamine. The interaction is not fully characterized. | Monitor both therapeutic efficacy and lithium levels if used concurrently. |
| Urine acidifiers and alkalinizers | Acidic substances (ascorbic acid, ammonium chloride, glutamic acid HCl) increase urinary excretion and reduce dexamfetamine levels. Alkaline substances (sodium bicarbonate, acetazolamide, thiazides) decrease excretion and increase levels. | Be aware of this interaction. Dietary changes or medications that alter urine pH can affect drug levels. |
| Cough and cold medications | Some decongestants and sympathomimetic agents in OTC products can potentiate the cardiovascular effects of dexamfetamine. | Always consult a pharmacist before purchasing cough or cold products for your child. |
Alcohol must not be consumed during treatment with Attentin. Alcohol can enhance the adverse effects of dexamfetamine and alter its metabolism. Be aware that some foods and medications may contain alcohol. Alcohol use in adolescents is particularly dangerous in combination with CNS stimulants, as it may mask the signs of alcohol intoxication and increase risk-taking behavior.
If your child is scheduled for surgery, inform the anesthesiologist that they are taking Attentin. Dexamfetamine should not be taken on the day of surgery when certain types of anesthetic agents are used, due to the risk of sudden severe hypertension during the procedure.
What Is the Correct Dosage of Attentin?
Attentin dosing is highly individualized and must be determined by the prescribing specialist based on each patient's age, symptoms, response to treatment, and tolerability. The fundamental principle of ADHD pharmacotherapy is to find the lowest effective dose that provides adequate symptom control with minimal side effects. Never adjust the dose without consulting the treating specialist.
Children and Adolescents (6–17 Years)
Standard Dosing
Starting dose: 5 mg once daily
Dose titration: Increased by 5 mg at weekly intervals, guided by clinical response and tolerability
Usual effective dose: 5 mg to 20 mg daily
Maximum recommended daily dose: 20 mg (in rare cases, up to 40 mg may be required)
Administration frequency: Once or twice daily, as determined by the specialist based on the pattern of symptoms throughout the day
The specialist will typically begin treatment with the lowest available dose of 5 mg and carefully monitor the child's response over the following days. If adequate symptom control is not achieved, the dose is increased by 5 mg increments at one-week intervals. This careful titration approach allows the specialist to identify the optimal dose while minimizing the risk of adverse effects. The decision to administer the medication once or twice daily depends on the pattern of symptoms throughout the day; for some children, symptom control is needed primarily during school hours, while others may require coverage into the afternoon and evening.
How to Take Attentin
Administration: Swallow the tablets with water, preferably with or immediately after a meal
Timing: Take at the same time relative to meals each day. The last dose should generally not be taken too late after lunch to avoid sleep disturbance.
Splitting tablets: Tablets have a cross-shaped score line and can be broken into quarters if needed to aid swallowing. The score line is designed to facilitate swallowing, not to divide the tablet into equal doses.
Children Under 6 and Adults
Attentin is not approved for use in children under 6 years of age or in adults. The safety and efficacy of this particular formulation have not been established in these populations. Adults with ADHD should consult their physician about alternative licensed treatment options, which may include other dexamfetamine formulations, lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse/Elvanse), or other ADHD medications approved for adult use.
Long-Term Use and Treatment Breaks
If your child has been taking Attentin for longer than one year, the prescribing specialist should periodically interrupt treatment for a brief period, typically during a school holiday. This “drug holiday” serves two important purposes: it allows the clinician to reassess whether the medication is still needed (as ADHD symptoms can evolve over time), and it may help mitigate potential growth effects. During these breaks, the specialist will evaluate whether symptoms return and to what degree, which informs the decision to continue, modify, or discontinue treatment.
Missed Dose
If your child misses a dose, do not take a double dose to make up for it. Simply skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the usual time. Doubling the dose can increase the risk of side effects, particularly cardiovascular and psychiatric effects.
Overdose
If your child takes more Attentin than prescribed, or if a child accidentally ingests the medication, contact emergency services or a poison control center immediately. Take the package leaflet and any remaining tablets with you. Amphetamine overdose can be very serious and potentially life-threatening.
Signs and symptoms of dexamfetamine overdose may include extreme agitation, restlessness, tremor, muscle twitching (which may progress to seizures), hallucinations, rapid or irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure followed by circulatory collapse, elevated body temperature, dilated pupils, and respiratory depression. In severe cases, overdose can lead to coma, cardiovascular failure, and death. There is no specific antidote for dexamfetamine overdose; treatment is supportive and symptomatic, typically requiring intensive care management.
Stopping Treatment
Do not stop Attentin abruptly without consulting the prescribing specialist. Sudden discontinuation can lead to withdrawal-like symptoms including extreme fatigue, depression, mood instability, agitation, sleep disturbances, increased appetite, and involuntary movements. The specialist may choose to reduce the daily dose gradually before completely stopping the medication. Always discuss any decision to change or stop treatment with the treating physician.
Attentin is a controlled substance with potential for misuse, abuse, and diversion. Store it securely and never share it with anyone else, even if they appear to have similar symptoms. Inform the prescribing specialist immediately if there are any concerns about the medication being used by anyone other than the prescribed patient. Improper use of amphetamines can cause serious cardiovascular events, psychiatric emergencies, and death.
What Are the Side Effects of Attentin?
Like all medicines, Attentin can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The prescribing specialist will discuss these side effects with you before starting treatment. Most side effects are dose-dependent and can often be managed through dose adjustment or timing modifications. It is important to report any unexpected symptoms to the treating specialist promptly.
Stop taking Attentin and contact a doctor immediately or go to the nearest emergency department if you observe any of the following: hallucinations or psychotic reactions, suicidal behavior, severe allergic reactions (swelling of face, tongue or throat, difficulty swallowing, hives, breathing difficulties), or unexplained muscle pain, cramps or weakness (signs of rhabdomyolysis).
Very Common
- Decreased appetite: Reduced hunger and food intake, which may lead to weight loss
- Weight loss: Reduced weight gain or active weight loss, particularly during long-term treatment
- Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, especially if the medication is taken too late in the day
- Nervousness: Feelings of restlessness, anxiety, or being on edge
Common
- Cardiovascular: Irregular heartbeat, increased heart rate, more noticeable heartbeat (palpitations), changes in blood pressure (usually increases)
- Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain and/or cramps, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth (usually occurs at the start of treatment and may be relieved by taking with food)
- Musculoskeletal: Joint pain
- Neurological: Dizziness, involuntary or jerky movements (dyskinesia), headache, hyperactivity
- Psychiatric: Abnormal behavior, aggression, agitation, loss of appetite, restlessness, depression, irritability
Rare
- Cardiovascular: Angina pectoris (chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart)
- Ocular: Difficulty focusing, blurred vision, dilated pupils
- Growth: Reduced height growth during prolonged treatment in children
- General: Fatigue
- Skin: Rash, urticaria (hives)
Very Rare
- Hematological: Anemia (reduced red blood cells), leukopenia (reduced white blood cells), thrombocytopenia (reduced platelets), thrombocytopenic purpura
- Cardiac: Cardiac arrest
- Neurological: Tourette syndrome, muscle cramps, involuntary choreiform movements, intracranial hemorrhage
- Hepatic: Abnormal liver function (ranging from elevated liver enzymes to hepatic coma)
- Psychiatric: Suicidal behavior, worsening of pre-existing tics
- Dermatological: Erythema multiforme, exfoliative dermatitis, fixed drug eruption
- Vascular: Cerebral vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels in the brain and spinal cord)
Frequency Not Known
- Cardiovascular: Cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle), heart attack, sudden death, chest pain, elevated body temperature
- Gastrointestinal: Ischemic colitis (inflammation of the colon due to reduced blood flow), diarrhea
- Metabolic: Acidosis (disturbed acid-base balance)
- Neurological: Ataxia (difficulty controlling movements), abnormal or impaired taste sensation, concentration difficulties, hyperreflexia, stroke, tremor
- Psychiatric: Confusion, dependence, dysphoria, emotional lability, euphoria, impaired cognitive ability, altered libido, nightmares, obsessive-compulsive behavior, panic attacks, paranoia, restlessness
- Renal: Kidney damage
- Reproductive: Impotence
- Dermatological: Excessive sweating, hair loss
- Vascular: Circulatory failure, Raynaud's phenomenon (numbness and color changes in fingers and toes in cold conditions)
- Immunological: Anaphylaxis, angioedema, allergic reactions
- Musculoskeletal: Rhabdomyolysis (abnormal muscle breakdown with unexplained muscle pain, cramps, or weakness)
It is important to understand that many of the serious side effects listed under “very rare” and “frequency not known” categories are extremely uncommon when the medication is used at prescribed doses under specialist supervision. The prescribing specialist carefully weighs the benefits of ADHD treatment against these potential risks for each individual patient. Regular monitoring appointments help detect any emerging side effects early, allowing prompt intervention.
If you notice any unexpected symptoms in your child while taking Attentin, even if they are not listed here, report them to the prescribing specialist. You can also report suspected side effects directly to your national pharmacovigilance authority (for example, the MHRA Yellow Card scheme in the UK, the FDA MedWatch program in the US, or the EMA EudraVigilance system in Europe). Reporting side effects contributes to the ongoing monitoring of medication safety.
How Should You Store Attentin?
Proper storage of Attentin is important both for maintaining the medication's effectiveness and for preventing unauthorized access, as dexamfetamine is a controlled substance with abuse potential. Follow these guidelines:
- Temperature: Store at or below 25°C (77°F). Do not store in excessively hot or humid environments such as bathrooms or near heating sources.
- Packaging: Keep the tablets in their original blister packaging. The medication is moisture-sensitive, so do not remove tablets from the blister until immediately before taking them.
- Child safety and security: Keep Attentin securely out of the sight and reach of children. Because it is a controlled substance, consider storing it in a locked cabinet or container to prevent unauthorized access by other household members, visitors, or the patient themselves (if overage taking is a concern).
- Expiry date: Do not use Attentin after the expiry date stated on the blister pack and outer carton (marked “EXP”). The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
- Disposal: Do not dispose of medications in household waste or down drains. Return unused or expired Attentin to a pharmacy for safe and proper disposal. Because it is a controlled substance, appropriate disposal is particularly important to prevent environmental harm and potential misuse.
What Does Attentin Contain?
Each Attentin tablet contains dexamfetamine sulfate as the active pharmaceutical ingredient. The formulation also includes a small number of inactive ingredients (excipients) that serve functions such as binding the tablet, aiding disintegration, and facilitating manufacturing. Attentin is available in three strengths, each with slightly different excipient profiles:
Attentin 5 mg Tablets
Active ingredient: 5 mg dexamfetamine sulfate per tablet.
Other ingredients: Isomalt (E953), magnesium stearate, crospovidone.
Appearance: White, round, clover-leaf shaped tablets with a cross-shaped score line on one side and an “S” imprinted on each quarter on the other side.
Pack sizes: 20, 28, 30, 40, 50, 56, 98, or 100 tablets in PVC/PE/PVdC-aluminium foil blisters. Not all pack sizes may be marketed in all countries.
Attentin 10 mg Tablets
Active ingredient: 10 mg dexamfetamine sulfate per tablet.
Other ingredients: Isomalt (E953), magnesium stearate, yellow iron oxide (E172).
Appearance: Yellow, round, clover-leaf shaped tablets with a cross-shaped score line on one side and an “M” imprinted on each quarter on the other side.
Attentin 20 mg Tablets
Active ingredient: 20 mg dexamfetamine sulfate per tablet.
Other ingredients: Isomalt (E953), magnesium stearate, red iron oxide (E172).
Appearance: Reddish, round, clover-leaf shaped tablets with a cross-shaped score line on one side and an “L” imprinted on each quarter on the other side.
The cross-shaped score line on all Attentin tablets is designed to make swallowing easier by allowing the tablet to be broken into smaller pieces. It is not intended for dividing the tablet into equal doses. To split the tablet, place it on a hard surface with the smooth side (bearing the cross-shaped score line) facing downward, then press gently in the center of the upper side with your index finger. The tablet will separate into four pieces.
If your child has any known allergies to excipients, particularly sugar alcohols like isomalt (E953), iron oxides, or magnesium stearate, inform the prescribing specialist before starting treatment. A pharmacist can help identify the specific excipients in the formulation prescribed for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions About Attentin
Attentin (dexamfetamine sulfate) is used for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years. It is specifically prescribed as a second-line treatment, meaning it is only used when methylphenidate-based medications (such as Ritalin or Concerta) have not provided adequate symptom control. Attentin is always prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment program that typically includes psychological therapy, educational support, and social interventions. Treatment must be initiated and monitored by a specialist in behavioral disorders in children.
While both Attentin (dexamfetamine) and methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) are CNS stimulants used to treat ADHD, they have different pharmacological profiles. Methylphenidate primarily blocks the reuptake of dopamine and noradrenaline, while dexamfetamine both blocks reuptake and actively promotes the release of these neurotransmitters from nerve terminals. This dual mechanism means dexamfetamine has a stronger dopaminergic effect. Clinical evidence shows that approximately 25–30% of ADHD patients who do not respond adequately to methylphenidate may benefit from switching to dexamfetamine, which is why guidelines position Attentin as a second-line option.
Dexamfetamine is a controlled substance with recognized potential for misuse and physical dependence when used improperly or at doses higher than prescribed. However, when used as directed at therapeutic doses under specialist supervision for ADHD, the risk of addiction is considered low. Multiple studies, including a major meta-analysis published in The Lancet Psychiatry, have found that appropriate ADHD medication treatment does not increase the risk of later substance use disorders and may actually reduce it. The prescribing specialist will carefully monitor for any signs of misuse, tolerance, or dependence throughout treatment.
The most common side effects (affecting more than 1 in 10 patients) are decreased appetite, weight loss, difficulty sleeping (insomnia), and nervousness. Common side effects (affecting up to 1 in 10) include irregular or increased heart rate, stomach pain, nausea, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, mood changes (irritability, agitation, depression), and changes in blood pressure. Most of these effects are dose-dependent and tend to be most pronounced at the beginning of treatment or after dose increases. Many can be managed through dose adjustment, changes in timing, or taking the medication with food.
No, Attentin is specifically licensed for children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years only. It has not been approved for use in adults or children under 6, as the safety and efficacy have not been formally established for these populations with this formulation. Adults with ADHD who may benefit from a dexamfetamine-type medication should consult their healthcare provider about alternative options, such as lisdexamfetamine (marketed as Vyvanse or Elvanse), which is licensed for adult ADHD in many countries, or other approved ADHD treatments for adults.
Attentin may affect growth in some children. The most common growth-related effect is decreased appetite leading to reduced weight gain or weight loss. Long-term studies of stimulant medications for ADHD, including dexamfetamine, have shown a temporary slowing of height growth in some children, typically 1–2 cm less than expected. The prescribing specialist will monitor your child's height and weight at every follow-up visit. If significant growth suppression is observed, the doctor may recommend treatment breaks during school holidays to allow catch-up growth. Long-term follow-up data generally shows that most children ultimately reach a normal adult height.
References
This article is based on current international medical guidelines, regulatory documents, and peer-reviewed research. All sources meet evidence level 1A standards.
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- European Medicines Agency (EMA). Attentin (dexamfetamine sulfate) – Summary of Product Characteristics. EMA/CHMP; 2025. Regulatory document covering indications, dosing, contraindications, interactions, and safety data.
- Wolraich ML, Hagan JF, Allan C, et al. Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents. Pediatrics. 2019;144(4):e20192528. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) evidence-based guideline.
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Editorial Team
This article has been written and reviewed by the iMedic medical editorial team according to our strict editorial standards. Our team consists of licensed physicians, pharmacists, and medical researchers with expertise in child and adolescent psychiatry, clinical pharmacology, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Content developed by iMedic's medical writing team based on current international guidelines (NICE, EMA, AAP, WHO, SIGN) and peer-reviewed pharmacological and psychiatric research.
Independently reviewed and fact-checked by the iMedic Medical Review Board, comprising board-certified specialists in child psychiatry, clinical pharmacology, and neurology.
All medical claims are supported by Level 1A evidence (systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and randomized controlled trials) following the GRADE evidence framework.
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