Methamphetamine is a member of the amphetamine class of drugs that are widely known for their central nervous system stimulation effects. These drugs are generally used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and were once widely used as appetite suppressants. They are also useful in the treatment of narcolepsy, a disease that leaves patients prone to sudden attacks of deep sleep. Unfortunately, amphetamines are among the most abused of all prescription drugs. Methamphetamine ranks at top of the list for abused amphetamines, and current trends to use this drug as a free base (ice) are leading to new problems in combating the war on drugs. Side effects of the amphetamines include irregular heartbeat, chest pain, fever, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, and increased blood pressure.
All amphetamines have essentially the same chemical properties and actions, states a 2005 published report by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Amphetamine, dextroamphetamine and methamphetamine are so alike, according to the DEA report, that even experienced users may not feel a difference between them. [More...]
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires the following “black box” warning on all amphetamines, including Desoxyn, which means that medical studies indicate these drugs carry a significant risk of serious, or even life-threatening, adverse effects.
AMPHETAMINES HAVE A HIGH POTENTIAL FOR ABUSE. ADMINISTRATION OF AMPHETAMINES FOR PROLONGED PERIODS OF TIME MAY LEAD TO DRUG DEPENDENCE AND MUST BE AVOIDED. PARTICULAR ATTENTION SHOULD BE PAID TO THE POSSIBILITY OF SUBJECTS OBTAINING AMPHETAMINES FOR NONTHERAPEUTIC USE OR DISTRIBUTION TO OTHERS, AND THE DRUGS SHOULD BE PRESCRIBED OR DISPENSED SPARINGLY.
MISUSE OF AMPHETAMINE MAY CAUSE SUDDEN DEATH AND SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR ADVERSE EVENTS.
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