Methamphetamine (Desoxyn)

Category:

Miscellaneous

Description:

Anorexiant, CNS stimulant: DEA Schedule II

Indications:

Short term adjunct to caloric restriction in exogenous obesity (high abuse potential)
Attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity

Contraindications:

Hyperthyroidism, moderate to severe hypertension, glaucoma, sever arteriosclerosis
History of drug abuse, symptomatic cardiovascular disease, agitated states, within 14 days of MAOI administration

Precautions:

Pregnancy category C; use for medical conditions does not pose significant risk to the fetus for congenital anomalies, but mild withdrawal symptoms may be observed in newborn children ; contraindicated during breast feeding
Mild hypertension, child <3 years, Tourette’s disorder
Motor and phonic tics
Tartrazine sensitivity (15mg sustained release preparation)

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

CNS: addiction, aggressiveness, changes in libido, chills, dependence, dizziness, dyskinesia, dysphoria, euphoria, headache, hyperactivity, insomnia, irritability, over- stimulation, psychotic episodes, restlessness, talkativeness, tremor
CV: arrhythmias (at large doses), dysrhythmias, hypertension, palpitations, reflex decrease in heart rate, tachycardia
GI: anorexia, constipation, cramps, diarrhea, dry mouth, metallic taste, nausea, vomiting, weight loss
GU: impotence
METAB: reversible elevations in serum thyroxine with heavy use
SKIN: urticaria

Dosage:

Administered orally

Adult:
- Obesity: PO 5mg 30 minutes before each meal; SUS REL PO 10-15mg every morning; treatment should not exceed a few weeks
Child:
- Attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity: PO 5mg 1-2 times daily initially, increase in increments of 5 mg/day at weekly intervals until an optimum response is achieved; usual effective dose 20-25mg daily (divided twice daily with conventional tablets or once daily with sustained release formulations)

Drug interactions:

MAOIs: severe hypertensive reactions possible
Selegiline: Potential for enhanced pressor effect if used in combination
Sodium bicarbonate (large doses): inhibit elimination and increase the effect of amphetamines

Source: Operational Medicine 2001, Health Care in Military Settings, NAVMED P-5139, May 1, 2001, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Department of the Navy, 2300 E Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20372-5300