Dexamyl

Dexamyl was a pharmaceutical drug that combined two active ingredients: dextroamphetamine and amobarbital. It was primarily used as a stimulant and anxiolytic medication. Dexamyl was produced by the pharmaceutical company Smith, Kline & French in the mid-20th century and was prescribed for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, and obesity.

History

Dexamyl was introduced in the 1950s and became popular due to its dual-action formula. The dextroamphetamine component acted as a central nervous system stimulant, while the amobarbital component served as a barbiturate to counteract the overstimulation and provide a calming effect. This combination was intended to balance the stimulating and sedative properties, making it suitable for patients with mixed symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Medical Uses

Dexamyl was prescribed for several conditions:

• Depression: The stimulant properties of dextroamphetamine helped alleviate symptoms of depression by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
• Anxiety: The barbiturate amobarbital provided a calming effect, reducing symptoms of anxiety.
• Obesity: The appetite-suppressing effects of dextroamphetamine made Dexamyl useful in weight loss treatments.

Mechanism of Action

The dextroamphetamine in Dexamyl works by increasing the release of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which enhances mood and alertness. Amobarbital, on the other hand, acts on the GABA receptors, producing a sedative effect that helps to mitigate the overstimulation caused by the stimulant component.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Dexamyl included:

• Insomnia
• Nervousness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea

Long-term use of Dexamyl could lead to dependence and tolerance, particularly due to the barbiturate component. Over time, patients might require higher doses to achieve the same therapeutic effects, increasing the risk of addiction and adverse effects.

Regulation and Discontinuation

Due to the potential for abuse and the development of safer alternatives, Dexamyl was eventually discontinued. The Controlled Substances Act of 1970 in the United States classified many amphetamines and barbiturates as controlled substances, leading to stricter regulations and a decline in the prescription of such combination drugs.

Related Pages

• Dextroamphetamine
• Amobarbital
• Smith, Kline & French
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Obesity
• Controlled Substances Act

Dexamyl
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