Drug Facts

Type of Drug:

Central nervous system stimulants: “Bennies,” “dexies,” “speed”, or “crystal.”

How the Drug Works:

These synthetic drugs are a stronger form of the natural body stimulant adrenaline. They work by altering natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain and can affect other body systems (eg, circulatory system) in high doses.

Uses:

Indicated as an integral part of a total treatment program of attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity that includes other remedial measures (psychological, educational, social) for a stabilizing effect in children 3 to 16 years of age with a behavioral syndrome characterized by moderate to severe distractibility, short attention span, hyperactivity, emotional 13 ability, and impulsivity.

To improve wakefulness in patients with excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy.

Methamphetamine only: For short term (eg, a few weeks) use in a weight reduction program based on caloric restriction, for patients who have failed alternative therapy (eg, repeated diets, group programs, other drugs).

Unlabeled Uses: Dextroamphetamine has been used to treat cocaine dependence and autism.

Precautions:

Use with caution in the following situations: High blood pressure Turreted syndrome

Abuse: Amphetamines have a high potential for abuse. Use in weight reduction programs only when alternative therapy (diets, group programs, other drugs) has been ineffective. Use for prolonged periods may lead to drug dependence.

Attention deficit disorders: Drug treatment is not indicated in all cases. The decision to use amphetamines depends on the chronicity and severity of the child’s symptoms and appropriateness for his/her age. When symptoms are associated with acute stress reactions, treatment with amphetamines is usually not indicated.

Chronic intoxication: Severe skin rash, marked sleeplessness, irritability, hyperactivity, personality changes, disorganization of thoughts, poor concentration, hallucinations, and compulsive behavior often occur. The most severe side effect of chronic intoxication is psychosis, often indistinguishable from paranoid schizophrenia.

Diabetes: Insulin requirements may be altered with the use of amphetamines and diet restriction.

Do not use: Do not use to combat fatigue or to replace rest.

Drug dependence: Tolerance, extreme dependence and severe social disability have occurred with amphetamine abuse. Patients may gradually increase the dosage to many times that recommended. Abrupt discontinuation following a long period of using high doses results in extreme fatigue, mental depression, and changes in sleep habits.

Pregnancy: Adequate studies have not been done in pregnant women, or animal studies may have shown a risk to the fetus. Birth defects have been reported with amphetamine use in pregnancy. Usually If clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh the possible hazardsto the fetus. Infants born to mothers dependent on amphetamines have an increased risk of premature delivery and low birth weight may experience symptoms of amphetamine withdrawal demonstrated by restlessness including agitation and weakness.

Breastfeeding: Amphetamines appear in breast milk. Discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.

Children: Long-term effects in children have not been well established.

Amphetamines are not recommended in children younger than 3 years of age. Do not use methamphetamine as a weight loss medication in children younger than 12 years of age. Extended-release amphetamine mixture capsules are indicated for children 6 years of age and older. Effects of extended-release amphetamine mixture capsules in children 3 to 5 years of age have not been studied. In psychotic children, amphetamines may worsen symptoms of behavior disturbance and thought disorder. Amphetamines may precipitate or worsen Tourette syndrome. Monitor growth during treatment. Chronic administration may be associated with growth inhibition.

Tartrazine: Some of these products may contain tartrazine dye (FD&C Yellow No.5), which can cause allergic reactions in certain individuals. Check package labeling when available or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Drug Interactions:

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or planning to take any overthe-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements while taking this medicine. Doses of one or both drugs may need to be modified or a different drug may need to be prescribed. The following drugs and drug classes interact with amphetamines:

• Antihypertensives (eg, methyldopa)
• Furazolidone (Furoxone)
• Guanethidine (lsmelin)
• MAOls (eg, phenelzine)
• Phenothiazines (eg, chlorpromazine)
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (eg, fluoxetine)
• Urinary acidifiers (eg, ammonium chloride)
• Urinary alkalinizers (eg, acetazolamide)

Side Effects:

Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many amphetamine users experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dosage, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:

Digestive Tract: Diarrhea; constipation; appetite loss; dry mouth; unpleasant taste sensation; indigestion; nausea; vomiting.

Nervous System: Dizziness; sleeplessness; depression; irritability; restlessn; nervousness; headache; tremor; exacerbation of motor and phOnic tics and Tourette syndrome; exaggerated sense of well-being; overvaluation; difficulty moving; unpleasant feelings; weakness; drowsiness between doses or after stopping medicine.

Circulatory System : pounding in the chest (palpitation); rapid or irregular heartbeat; high blood presser.

Other: Impotence; changes in sex drive; hives; weight loss; suppression of growth in children (long-term use).

Guidelines for Use:

• Dosage is individualized. Take exactly as prescribed.
• Do not change the dose or stop taking, unless directed by your doctor.
• Do not take more frequently than prescribed. These drugs can be addicting.
• Do not chew or crush sustained- or extended-release products.
• Extended-release amphetamine mixture capsules may be taken whole, or the capsule may be opened and the entire contents sprinkled on applesauce. The sprinkled applesauce should then be consumed immediately; it should not be stored. Take the applesauce with sprinkled beads in its entirety without chewing. The dose of a single capsule should not be divided.
• May cause insomnia. Avoid taking these medications late in the day.
• This medicine may cause dizziness. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity.
• May cause nervousness, restlessness, sleeplessness, dizziness, appetite loss, dry mouth, and digestive tract disturbances. Contact your doctor if these become troublesome.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised to do so by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed or it is necessary to establish a new dosage schedule, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
• Do not take any prescription or OTC medications or dietary supplements, unless directed by your doctor.
• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, become pregnant, are planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
• Use of many of these drugs to improve athletic skills, mental alertness, or to stay awake is dangerous and illegal. Never share drugs with others.
• Attention deficit disorder in children - Your doctor may occasionally interrupt drug therapy to determine if there is a recurrence of symptoms.
• Weight control - Appropriate lifestyle changes (eg, diet and exercise) should be made while on therapy in order to avoid continued use of the drug.
• Store at room temperature (59° to 86°F) in a tight, light-resistant container.

Tagged under:amphetamines, blood pressure, CNS Stimulants, human durgs, nervous system treatment