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Pharmacology · single question

A patient taking amphetamine-based medication (Adderall) presents to the dental office. Which of the following is NOT an expected side effect of this medication?

  1. High fever (101°F or above)
  2. Xerostomia (dry mouth)
  3. Agitation/restlessness
  4. Tachycardia
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. High fever (101°F or above)

Amphetamines cause sympathomimetic effects (dry mouth, tachycardia, agitation) at therapeutic doses. High fever (≥101°F) is NOT a typical expected side effect at therapeutic doses.
  • A. CORRECT. High fever (≥101°F) is NOT a typical expected side effect of therapeutic Adderall use. It may indicate toxicity, hyperthermia from severe sympathomimetic overdose, or serotonin syndrome from drug interaction — not a routine expected side effect.
  • B. Xerostomia is very common with amphetamines due to alpha-1 adrenergic suppression of salivary flow.
  • C. Agitation, anxiety, and insomnia are common CNS side effects of amphetamine-based medications.
  • D. Tachycardia is a common cardiovascular side effect due to catecholamine release.

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