Version July 2025
Methamphetamine has a high potential for abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including methamphetamine, can result in overdose and death, and this risk is increased with higher doses or unapproved methods of administration, such as snorting or injection.
Before prescribing methamphetamine, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks, proper storage of the drug, and proper disposal of any unused drug. Throughout methamphetamine treatment, reassess each patient’s risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Note: Methamphetamine is not addressed in guidelines as a therapeutic option for treatment of ADHD; use has been replaced by other agents (Ref). Use lowest effective individualized dose; administer first dose in early morning and avoid late evening administration:
Children ≥6 years and Adolescents: Oral: Initial: 5 mg once or twice daily; may increase by 5 mg increments in weekly intervals until optimum response is achieved; usual effective daily dose: 20 to 25 mg/day; dose may be divided twice daily.
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.
(For additional information see "Methamphetamine (pharmaceutical): Drug information")
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD):
Note: Methamphetamine is not addressed in guidelines as a therapeutic option for treatment of ADHD; use has been replaced by other agents (Ref).
Initial: Oral: 5 mg once or twice daily; may increase daily dose by 5 mg increments in weekly intervals until optimum response is achieved; usual effective daily dose: 20 to 25 mg/day; dose may be divided twice daily. Administer first dose in early morning and avoid late evening administration.
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer’s labeling.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer’s labeling.
The following adverse drug reactions are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified.
Postmarketing:
Cardiovascular: Increased blood pressure, palpitations, peripheral vascular disease (including digital ulceration, Raynaud disease, soft tissue breakdown), tachycardia
Dermatologic: Alopecia, urticaria
Endocrine & metabolic: Change in libido
Gastrointestinal: Constipation, diarrhea, gastrointestinal distress, mesenteric ischemia, unpleasant taste, xerostomia
Genitourinary: Erectile dysfunction, frequent erections, priapism
Nervous system: Dizziness, drug abuse, drug dependence, dysphoria, euphoria, exacerbation of tics (exacerbation of Gilles de la Tourette syndrome, exacerbation of vocal tics, motor tics), headache, insomnia, overstimulation, psychotic symptoms, restlessness, tremor
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Rhabdomyolysis
Hypersensitivity (eg, angioedema, anaphylaxis) to amphetamine or any component of the formulation; during or within 14 days following monoamine oxidase inhibitors (including linezolid or methylene blue).
Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Cardiovascular events: CNS stimulant treatment has been associated with sudden death in children and adolescents with preexisting structural cardiac abnormalities. Consistent with other studies, a large retrospective cohort study involving 1,200,438 children, adolescents, and young adults (aged 2 to 24 years) prescribed methylphenidate, dexmethylphenidate, dextroamphetamines, amphetamine salts, pemoline, or atomoxetine found no evidence that current use of an attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication increased risk for sudden cardiac death, acute myocardial infarction (MI), or stroke (Cooper 2011).
• CNS effects: Amphetamines may impair the ability to engage in potentially hazardous activities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving).
• Hypertension/tachycardia: May occur; monitor BP and heart rate in all patients.
• Peripheral vasculopathy: Stimulants are associated with peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud phenomenon; signs/symptoms are usually mild and intermittent, and generally improve with dose reduction or discontinuation. Peripheral vasculopathy effects have been observed at different times, at therapeutic doses, and in all age groups. Digital ulceration and/or soft tissue breakdown have been observed rarely; monitor for digital changes during therapy and seek further evaluation (eg, rheumatology) if necessary.
• Serotonin syndrome: Potentially life-threatening serotonin syndrome (SS) may occur when amphetamines are used in combination with other serotonergic agents (eg, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, buspirone, St. John's wort, tryptophan), agents that impair metabolism of serotonin (eg, monoamine oxidase inhibitors), or CYP2D6 inhibitors that impair metabolism of amphetamines. If concomitant use of methamphetamine with serotonergic drugs or CYP2D6 inhibitors is indicated, initiate methamphetamine at a low dose and monitor patient closely for signs and symptoms of SS. Discontinue treatment (and any concomitant serotonergic agent) immediately if signs/symptoms arise.
• Visual disturbance: Difficulty in accommodation and blurred vision has been reported with the use of stimulants.
Disease-related concerns:
• Cardiovascular disorders: Avoid use in patients with known structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious cardiac arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac disease.
• Psychiatric disorders: Use with caution in patients with preexisting psychosis (may exacerbate symptoms of behavior and thought disorder) or bipolar disorder (may induce mixed/manic episode). New-onset psychosis or mania may occur with stimulant use. Patients should be screened for bipolar disorder and risk factors for developing a manic episode prior to treatment; consider discontinuation if psychotic or manic symptoms (eg, delusional thinking, hallucinations, or mania) occur. May be associated with aggressive behavior or hostility (causal relationship not established); monitor for development or worsening of these behaviors.
• Seizure disorder: Limited information exists regarding stimulant use in seizure disorder. Whereas patients with ADHD are at an increased risk for seizure activity compared to the general population, a retrospective study using drug claims data showed that the use of stimulant medications was associated with a lower risk (Cortese 2013; Wiggs 2018). Manufacturers of some stimulants recommend discontinuing therapy if seizures occur.
• Tourette syndrome/tics: Use with caution in patients with Tourette syndrome or other tic disorders. Stimulants may exacerbate tics (motor and phonic) and Tourette syndrome; however, evidence demonstrating increased tics is limited. Evaluate for tics and Tourette syndrome prior to therapy initiation (AACAP [Murphy 2013; Pliszka 2007]).
Special populations:
• Bariatric surgery: Presurgical assessment of the indication for use, symptoms, and goals of therapy should be documented to enable postsurgical assessment. Monitor for continued efficacy and tolerability after bariatric surgery and consider switching to an alternative medication if symptoms worsen.
• Pediatric: Appetite suppression may occur, particularly in children. Use of stimulants has been associated with weight loss and slowing growth rate; monitor growth rate and weight during treatment. ADHD treatment interruption may be necessary in patients who are not increasing in height or gaining weight as expected.
Other warnings/precautions:
• ADHD treatment: Appropriate use: Recommended to be used as part of a comprehensive treatment program for attention deficit disorders.
• Discontinuation of therapy: Abrupt discontinuation following high doses for prolonged periods results in extreme fatigue, mental depression, and sleep EEG changes; may also result in other symptoms of withdrawal.
• Inappropriate use: Therapy is not appropriate for the treatment of fatigue or to replace rest in normal patients.
CNS stimulant treatment has been associated with sudden death in children and adolescents with preexisting structural cardiac abnormalities; one study reported methylphenidate increased risk for arrhythmia and MI in youth without congenital heart disease (Shin 2016) and a retrospective case-control study reported an association with stimulants and sudden unexplained death in youth (Gould 2009). However, as noted in reviews (Martinez-Raga 2013; Westover 2012), several large studies have not found an association between prescription stimulants and cardiovascular events; though most retrospective studies were large (n=55,383 to 2,131,953), some had statistical power or methodological limitations (Westover 2012). A large retrospective cohort study involving 1,200,438 children and young adults (aged 2 to 24 years) prescribed ADHD medication (methylphenidate, dexmethylphenidate, dextroamphetamines, amphetamine salts, pemoline, or atomoxetine) found no evidence that ADHD medication was associated with an increased risk of serious cardiovascular events (ie, acute MI, sudden cardiac death, stroke) in current (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.75; 95% CI: 0.31 to 1.85) or former (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.03; 95% CI: 0.57 to 1.89) users compared with nonusers, nor in current compared with former users. Results were similar with multiple alternative analyses to assess for bias or study assumptions. While point estimates of relative risks for ADHD drugs did not demonstrate increased risk, the upper limit of the 95% CI suggested a doubling of the risk could not be ruled out, although absolute magnitude of increased risk would be low. Data on any individual medication, other than methylphenidate, were too sparse for separate regression analyses (Cooper 2011). Prior to treatment with medications for ADHD, the American Heart Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that all children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD have a thorough cardiovascular assessment, including patient and family health histories, determination of all medications used (prescribed and over-the-counter), and a physical examination focused on cardiovascular disease risk factors. An ECG is not mandatory but is reasonable to consider prior to stimulant medication therapy. Prompt evaluation and appropriate referral and testing, if warranted, should occur if any cardiac symptoms present (Vetter 2008).
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling. [DSC] = Discontinued product
Tablet, Oral, as hydrochloride:
Desoxyn: 5 mg [DSC] [contains corn starch, sodium aminobenzoate]
Generic: 5 mg
Yes
Tablets (Methamphetamine HCl Oral)
5 mg (per each): $20.19
Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.
Treatment with methamphetamine for ADHD should include “drug holidays” or periodic discontinuation in order to assess the patient's requirements, decrease tolerance, and limit suppression of linear growth and weight. Medications used to treat ADHD should be part of a total treatment program that may include other components such as psychological, educational, and social measures.
C-II
Oral: Avoid late evening doses due to resultant insomnia.
Oral: Avoid late evening doses due to potential for insomnia.
Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); protect from light.
An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2024/005378s032lbl.pdf#page=17, must be dispensed with this medication.
Treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (FDA approved in ages ≥6 years and adults). Note: Although FDA approved in pediatric patients for ADHD, current expert recommendations do not include methamphetamine as a therapeutic option; use has been replaced by other agents (AACAP [Pliszka 2007]; AAP 2011; NICE 2018).
Desoxyn may be confused with digoxin
Substrate of CYP2D6 (Major); Note: Assignment of Major/Minor substrate status based on clinically relevant drug interaction potential;
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program
Acebrophylline: May increase stimulatory effects of CNS Stimulants. Risk X: Avoid
Ajmaline: May increase serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Alkalinizing Agents: May decrease excretion of Amphetamines. Management: Consider alternatives to using amphetamines and alkalinizing agents in combination. If these agents must be used together, patients should be monitored closely for excessive amphetamine effects. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Amifampridine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effects of Amifampridine. Risk C: Monitor
Amisulpride (Oral): Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Amisulpride (Oral). Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Ammonium Chloride: May decrease serum concentration of Amphetamines. This effect is likely due to an enhanced excretion of amphetamines in the urine. Risk C: Monitor
Antihypertensive Agents: Amphetamines may decrease antihypertensive effects of Antihypertensive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Antipsychotic Agents: May decrease stimulatory effects of Amphetamines. Antipsychotic Agents may increase adverse/toxic effects of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor
ARIPiprazole Lauroxil: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of ARIPiprazole Lauroxil. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
ARIPiprazole: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of ARIPiprazole. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Artemether and Lumefantrine: May increase serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Asenapine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Asenapine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Atomoxetine: May increase hypertensive effects of Sympathomimetics. Atomoxetine may increase tachycardic effects of Sympathomimetics. Risk C: Monitor
Benperidol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Benperidol. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Blonanserin: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Blonanserin. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Bornaprine: Sympathomimetics may increase anticholinergic effects of Bornaprine. Risk C: Monitor
Brexpiprazole: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Brexpiprazole. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Bromperidol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Bromperidol. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
BuPROPion: May increase neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effects of Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential. Risk C: Monitor
Cannabinoid-Containing Products: May increase tachycardic effects of Sympathomimetics. Risk C: Monitor
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors: May decrease excretion of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor
Cariprazine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Cariprazine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
ChlorproMAZINE: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of ChlorproMAZINE. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Clothiapine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Clothiapine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
CloZAPine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of CloZAPine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Cocaine (Topical): May increase hypertensive effects of Sympathomimetics. Management: Consider alternatives to use of this combination when possible. Monitor closely for substantially increased blood pressure or heart rate and for any evidence of myocardial ischemia with concurrent use. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May increase serum concentration of Amphetamines. Management: Monitor for amphetamine toxicities (including serotonin syndrome) if used with a moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor. Initiate amphetamine therapy at lower doses, monitor frequently, and adjust doses as needed. Discontinue amphetamines if serotoinin syndrome occurs Risk C: Monitor
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May increase serum concentration of Amphetamines. Management: Monitor for amphetamine toxicities (including serotonin syndrome) if used with a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor. Initiate amphetamine therapy at lower doses, monitor frequently, and adjust doses as needed. Discontinue amphetamines if serotoinin syndrome occurs. Risk C: Monitor
Dihydralazine: Sympathomimetics may decrease therapeutic effects of Dihydralazine. Risk C: Monitor
Doxofylline: Sympathomimetics may increase adverse/toxic effects of Doxofylline. Risk C: Monitor
DroPERidol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of DroPERidol. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Esketamine (Injection): May increase adverse/toxic effects of Sympathomimetics. Specifically, the risk for elevated heart rate, hypertension, and arrhythmias may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Esketamine (Nasal): May increase hypertensive effects of CNS Stimulants. Risk C: Monitor
Fluorodopa F18: Coadministration of CNS Stimulants and Fluorodopa F18 may alter diagnostic results. Management: Discontinue medications used to treat Parkinson disease, including dopamine reuptake inhibitors and dopamine releasing agents, such as psychostimulants, 12 hours prior to fluorodopa F 18 administration if these medications can be safely withheld. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Flupentixol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Flupentixol. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
FluPHENAZine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of FluPHENAZine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Gastrointestinal Acidifying Agents: May decrease serum concentration of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor
Guanethidine: May increase hypertensive effects of Sympathomimetics. Guanethidine may increase arrhythmogenic effects of Sympathomimetics. Risk C: Monitor
Haloperidol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Haloperidol. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Iloperidone: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Iloperidone. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Inhalational Anesthetics: Amphetamines may increase hypotensive effects of Inhalational Anesthetics. Risk C: Monitor
Inhibitors of the Proton Pump (PPIs and PCABs): May increase absorption of Amphetamines. Specifically, the amphetamine absorption rate may be increased in the first hours after dosing. Risk C: Monitor
Iobenguane Radiopharmaceutical Products: Amphetamines may decrease therapeutic effects of Iobenguane Radiopharmaceutical Products. Management: Discontinue all drugs that may inhibit or interfere with catecholamine transport or uptake for at least 5 biological half-lives before iobenguane administration. Do not administer these drugs until at least 7 days after each iobenguane dose. Risk X: Avoid
Iobenguane Radiopharmaceutical Products: CNS Stimulants may decrease therapeutic effects of Iobenguane Radiopharmaceutical Products. Management: Discontinue all drugs that may inhibit or interfere with catecholamine transport or uptake for at least 5 biological half-lives before iobenguane administration. Do not administer these drugs until at least 7 days after each iobenguane dose. Risk X: Avoid
Ioflupane I 123: Coadministration of Amphetamines and Ioflupane I 123 may alter diagnostic results. Risk C: Monitor
Iohexol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Iohexol. Specifically, the risk for seizures may be increased. Management: Discontinue agents that may lower the seizure threshold 48 hours prior to intrathecal use of iohexol. Wait at least 24 hours after the procedure to resume such agents. In nonelective procedures, consider use of prophylactic antiseizure drugs. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Iomeprol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Iomeprol. Specifically, the risk for seizures may be increased. Management: Discontinue agents that may lower the seizure threshold 48 hours prior to intrathecal use of iomeprol. Wait at least 24 hours after the procedure to resume such agents. In nonelective procedures, consider use of prophylactic antiseizure drugs. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Iopamidol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Iopamidol. Specifically, the risk for seizures may be increased. Management: Discontinue agents that may lower the seizure threshold 48 hours prior to intrathecal use of iopamidol. Wait at least 24 hours after the procedure to resume such agents. In nonelective procedures, consider use of prophylactic antiseizure drugs. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Kratom: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Sympathomimetics. Risk X: Avoid
Landiolol: Sympathomimetics may decrease therapeutic effects of Landiolol. Risk C: Monitor
Levothyroxine: May increase therapeutic effects of Sympathomimetics. Sympathomimetics may increase therapeutic effects of Levothyroxine. Levothyroxine may increase adverse/toxic effects of Sympathomimetics. Specifically, the risk of coronary insufficiency may be increased in patients with coronary artery disease. Risk C: Monitor
Loxapine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Loxapine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Lumateperone: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Lumateperone. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Lurasidone: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Lurasidone. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Mavorixafor: May increase serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk X: Avoid
Methenamine: May decrease serum concentration of Amphetamines. This effect is likely due to an enhanced excretion of amphetamines in the urine. Risk C: Monitor
Methotrimeprazine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Methotrimeprazine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Molindone: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Molindone. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors: May increase hypertensive effects of Amphetamines. While linezolid and tedizolid may interact via this mechanism, management recommendations differ from other monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Refer to monographs specific to those agents for details. Risk X: Avoid
Multivitamins/Fluoride (with ADE): May decrease serum concentration of Amphetamines. More specifically, the ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in many multivitamins may decrease amphetamine concentrations. Risk C: Monitor
Multivitamins/Minerals (with ADEK, Folate, Iron): May decrease serum concentration of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor
Multivitamins/Minerals (with AE, No Iron): May decrease serum concentration of Amphetamines. Specifically, vitamin C may impair absorption of amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor
OLANZapine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of OLANZapine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Opioid Agonists: Amphetamines may increase analgesic effects of Opioid Agonists. Risk C: Monitor
Paliperidone: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Paliperidone. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Peginterferon Alfa-2b may increase serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Periciazine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Periciazine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Perphenazine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Perphenazine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Pimozide: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Pimozide. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Pipamperone: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Pipamperone. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Polyethylene Glycol-Electrolyte Solution: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Polyethylene Glycol-Electrolyte Solution. Specifically, the risk of seizure may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Prochlorperazine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Prochlorperazine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Promazine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Promazine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
QUEtiapine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of QUEtiapine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Quinolones: Amphetamines may increase cardiotoxic effects of Quinolones. Risk C: Monitor
RisperiDONE: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of RisperiDONE. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors): Amphetamines may increase serotonergic effects of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors) may increase serum concentration of Amphetamines. Management: Monitor for amphetamine toxicities, including serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability). Initiate amphetamines at lower doses, monitor frequently, and adjust dose as needed. Risk C: Monitor
Serotonergic Agents (High Risk): Amphetamines may increase serotonergic effects of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability). Initiate amphetamines at lower doses, monitor frequently, and adjust doses as needed. Risk C: Monitor
Sertindole: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Sertindole. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Sodium Phosphates: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Sodium Phosphates. Specifically, the risk of seizure or loss of consciousness may be increased in patients with significant sodium phosphate-induced fluid or electrolyte abnormalities. Risk C: Monitor
Solriamfetol: CNS Stimulants may increase hypertensive effects of Solriamfetol. CNS Stimulants may increase tachycardic effects of Solriamfetol. Risk C: Monitor
Solriamfetol: Sympathomimetics may increase hypertensive effects of Solriamfetol. Sympathomimetics may increase tachycardic effects of Solriamfetol. Risk C: Monitor
Sulpiride: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Sulpiride. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Sympathomimetics: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Sympathomimetics. Risk C: Monitor
Tedizolid: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Sympathomimetics. Specifically, the risk for increased blood pressure and heart rate may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Thioridazine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Thioridazine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Thiothixene: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Thiothixene. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Tricyclic Antidepressants: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Amphetamines. Tricyclic Antidepressants may potentiate the cardiovascular effects of Amphetamines. Amphetamines may increase serotonergic effects of Tricyclic Antidepressants. This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) and increased cardiovascular effects when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor
Trifluoperazine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Trifluoperazine. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Urinary Acidifying Agents: May decrease serum concentration of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor
Ziprasidone: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Ziprasidone. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Zuclopenthixol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may increase adverse/toxic effects of Zuclopenthixol. Specifically, the risk of seizures may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Amphetamine serum levels may be altered if taken with acidic food, juices, or vitamin C. Management: Administer 30 minutes before a meal.
Methamphetamine and amphetamine were detected in newborn tissues following intermittent maternal use of Desoxyn during pregnancy (Garriott 1973).
Outcome data related to use of methamphetamine during pregnancy are available. Most human data is based on nonprescribed amphetamine/methamphetamine exposure and not from therapeutic maternal use. Data from nonmedicinal exposures may be confounded by concomitant use of other substances and quantification of maternal exposure may be uncertain (Evans 2023; Golub 2005; Harst 2021; Hayer 2024; Kalaitzopoulos 2018). Placental perfusion may be decreased due to vasoconstriction caused by CNS stimulants. Use of amphetamines during pregnancy may lead to an increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight; newborns may experience symptoms of withdrawal. Nonprescribed methamphetamine may adversely affect brain development (Kunkler 2022; Sanjari Moghaddam 2021). Monitor newborns for agitation, irritability, excessive drowsiness, or feeding difficulties.
Treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) typically involves behavioral therapies in combination with medication. Nonpharmacologic therapies are recommended as first-line treatment for pregnant patients with mild to moderate ADHD. The decision to use medication should be made as part of a shared decision-making process which considers the risk of untreated or undertreated moderate to severe ADHD; use of the lowest effective dose and minimum number of medications is recommended. Pregnancy is not recommended with maternal use of nonprescribed amphetamines (Scoten 2024).
Data collection to monitor pregnancy and infant outcomes following exposure to methamphetamine is ongoing. Patients exposed to Desoxyn during pregnancy are encouraged to enroll in the National Pregnancy Registry for ADHD Medications (866-961-2388).
Prior to initiation of therapy, assess medical history and family history of sudden death or ventricular arrhythmia, and physical exam to assess for cardiac disease; patients should receive further evaluation if findings suggest cardiac disease, such as ECG and echocardiogram; promptly conduct cardiac evaluation in patients who develop exertional chest pain, unexplained syncope, or any other symptom of cardiac disease during treatment. For children already taking a simulant, it is reasonable to evaluate medical and family history, review physical examination, and order ECG if not done prior to initiation (Vetter 2008).
Monitor growth (weight and height in children); CBC with differential and platelet count; liver enzymes; blood pressure and heart rate (baseline, following dose increases, and periodically during treatment); appetite, sleep, abnormal movements. Patients should be re-evaluated at appropriate intervals to assess continued need of the medication. Observe for signs/symptoms of new or worsening aggression or hostility, depression, delusional thinking, hallucinations, or mania. Monitor for visual disturbances. Observe for digital changes suggestive of peripheral vasculopathy (eg, Raynaud phenomenon). Monitor for signs of misuse, abuse, substance use disorder, and diversion.
Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome, particularly during initiation and dose increases and especially if used with a CYP2D6 inhibitor or serotonergic agent.
A sympathomimetic amine related to ephedrine and amphetamine with CNS stimulant activity; causes release of catecholamines (primarily dopamine and other catecholamines) from their storage sites in the presynaptic nerve terminals. Inhibits reuptake and metabolism of catecholamines through inhibition of monoamine transporters and oxidase.
Absorption: Rapid from GI tract
Metabolism: Predominately hepatic via aromatic hydroxylation, N-dealkylation and deamination; forms ≥7 metabolites
Half-life elimination: 4 to 5 hours
Excretion: Urine primarily (dependent on urine pH; alkaline urine increases the half-life); ~62% of dose eliminated within first 24 hours as ~33% unchanged drug with remainder as metabolites
