Posted by Zeke on January 17, 2000, at 15:37:30
In reply to Re: Addiction to Dexedrine, posted by Scott L. Schofield on January 16, 2000, at 20:51:17
> About 15 years or so ago, I knew of someone (adult) for whom imipramine (Trofranil) monotherapy seemed effective. I have come across a few posts suggesting that bupropion (Wellbutrin) can also be effective.
There is some logic to that since desipramine is said to be sometimes effective for ADD and imipramine is metabolized to desipramine. Neither did much for my ADD though. Imipramine/desipramine effect norepinephrine but not dopamine -- probably why it's not quite as effective as the psychostimulants. However, Adderral contains levo isomers of amphetamine (25%) which only effect norepinephrine. Dextro isomers (ergo 'Dex'-edrine) effect both dopamine and norepinephrine. So there is probably some role for norepinephrine in ADD.
Wellbutrin (bupropion) is related to the stimulant diethylpropion, and does effect dopamine in a stimulant like manner (although its mechanism is debated) so that's likely the reason for its greater efficacy in ADD. For me all it did was create headaches and a rash (and an unhappy doctor who had amphetamine paranoia).
Tricyclic ADs (eg, desipramine) also increase blood/brain levels of amphetamine(eg, Dexedrine). For what its worth you can also increase the effect of amphetamine by taking a little sodium bicarbonate (Baking Soda/ingredient of AlkaSeltzer) with it. That increases absorbtion and decreases the kidneys' removal of amphetamine. (But don't do this often as it [baking soda] will mess up your electrolytes!)
poster:Zeke
thread:16036
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000112/msgs/19094.html