WARNING

Taking amphetamine, particularly when not used as prescribed or misused, can present several risks:

• Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: Amphetamines can cause a significant rise in heart rate and blood pressure, which may lead to cardiovascular complications, especially in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
• Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats can occur, potentially leading to serious heart problems.
• Psychosis: High doses or prolonged use can lead to symptoms such as paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions.
• Mania: Some users might experience symptoms of mania, including elevated mood, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior.
• Dependency and Addiction: Amphetamines have a high potential for abuse and addiction. Dependence can develop, leading to compulsive drug-seeking behavior and use.
• Seizures: In rare cases, high doses or misuse can trigger seizures.
• Tics and Tremors: Uncontrolled movements and muscle twitches can occur.
• Appetite Suppression: Prolonged use can lead to significant weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
• Digestive Disturbances: Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain may occur.
• Impaired Judgment: Users may experience impaired judgment and decision-making abilities, which can lead to risky behaviors.
• Aggression: Increased irritability and aggression have been reported.
• Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping is a common side effect, which can exacerbate other mental health issues.
• Fatigue: When the medication is stopped, users may experience extreme fatigue.
• Depression: Symptoms of depression can emerge, sometimes severely, as the body adjusts to the absence of the drug.

It’s crucial to use amphetamines only as prescribed by a healthcare provider and to follow their guidance closely to minimize these risks. If you have any concerns or experience adverse effects, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Amphetamine is primarily prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness.

• ADHD: Amphetamine helps increase attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in patients with ADHD. It works by enhancing the levels of certain natural chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine).
• Narcolepsy: It is also used to help people with narcolepsy stay awake during the day. Amphetamine stimulates the central nervous system, improving alertness and focus.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s a detailed explanation of how to use Amphetamine:

• Follow Prescription Directions: Take amphetamine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not take more or less than directed or for a longer period than recommended.
• Timing:
  • Immediate-Release Tablets: Typically taken 1-3 times daily. The first dose is usually taken in the morning, and subsequent doses are spaced 4-6 hours apart.
  • Extended-Release Capsules: Usually taken once daily in the morning. Do not take it in the afternoon or evening, as it can interfere with sleep.
• Swallowing Capsules: Swallow extended-release capsules whole. Do not crush, chew, or break them. If you have difficulty swallowing, some capsules may be opened, and the contents sprinkled on applesauce. Consume the mixture immediately without chewing.
• Taking with or without Food: Amphetamine can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may help reduce any stomach upset.
• Avoiding Late-Day Doses: Avoid taking amphetamine late in the day to prevent insomnia (difficulty sleeping).
• Consistent Use: Take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. This helps maximize its effectiveness and minimize side effects.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Storage: Store amphetamine at room temperature, away from light, moisture, and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and discuss any concerns or side effects with them.

Other uses for this medicine

• Treatment-Resistant Depression: In some cases, amphetamine may be used to augment the effects of antidepressants in patients with severe depression who have not responded adequately to other treatments.
• Binge Eating Disorder: Amphetamine has been used off-label to help reduce the urge to binge eat in people with moderate to severe binge eating disorder.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions to Follow for Amphetamine:

• Medical History: Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, mental health disorders (such as depression or bipolar disorder), thyroid problems, or a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
• Mental Health Monitoring: Be aware that amphetamines can cause or worsen mental health conditions like anxiety, agitation, or psychosis. Contact your doctor if you experience any unusual changes in mood or behavior.
• Heart Health: Since amphetamines can increase heart rate and blood pressure, they may not be suitable for people with certain heart conditions. Your doctor may monitor your heart health during treatment.
• Drug Interactions: Make sure to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as amphetamines can interact with various substances (e.g., MAO inhibitors, antidepressants).
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Amphetamines can have harmful effects on an unborn baby, so inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. They can also pass into breast milk, so discuss with your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects and interact with the medication. It is advised to avoid consuming alcohol while taking amphetamines.
• Regular Check-ups: Regular follow-ups with your doctor are important to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and adjust the dose if necessary.
• Use Caution with Activities: Since amphetamines can affect coordination and alertness, be cautious when driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Growth in Children: Amphetamines may affect growth in children. Regular monitoring of height and weight is recommended if prescribed for pediatric use.
• Dependence and Misuse: Amphetamines have a high potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction. Use the medication exactly as prescribed and do not share it with others.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and before making any changes to your medication regimen.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Balanced Diet: Maintain a balanced diet with sufficient nutrients. Amphetamine can reduce appetite, so it is important to eat healthy meals to prevent weight loss and maintain energy levels.
• Avoid Acidic Foods or Drinks: Acidic foods (such as citrus fruits and juices) and beverages (like sodas) may affect how well amphetamine is absorbed. Try to space them out from your dose.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water, especially if you experience dry mouth, a common side effect of amphetamine.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take It as Soon as You Remember: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• Skip the Missed Dose if It’s Late in the Day: If it’s near the time for your next dose or later in the day, skip the missed dose to avoid interfering with your sleep.
• Do Not Double the Dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Just continue with your regular dosing schedule.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Amphetamine can cause a range of side effects, some of common side effects of amphetamine are:

• Nervous System:
  • Nervousness, restlessness, or anxiety
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
  • Tremors or shakiness
• Cardiovascular:
  • Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Increased blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Palpitations (feeling of a racing heart)
• Gastrointestinal:
  • Dry mouth
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Stomach pain or cramps
  • Loss of appetite, which may lead to weight loss
• Psychiatric:
  • Mood swings or irritability
  • Aggression or hostility
  • Euphoria (feeling of intense excitement or happiness)
  • Depression or sadness
• Skin and Hair:
  • Sweating
  • Rash or itching
• Musculoskeletal:
  • Muscle cramps or pain
• Other:
  • Blurred vision
  • Changes in libido or sexual function

Serious Side Effects of Amphetamine:

• Cardiovascular:
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fainting or severe dizziness
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Psychiatric:
  • Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
  • Delusions (false beliefs)
  • Paranoia (unjustified suspicion or mistrust of others)
  • Severe anxiety, panic attacks, or agitation
• Neurological:
  • Seizures
  • Severe headache
  • Stroke (symptoms such as sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, or vision changes)
• Allergic Reactions:
  • Hives or rash
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Circulation Problems:
  • Pain, numbness, cold feeling, or changes in color (pale, blue, or red) in your fingers or toes

Long-Term Side Effects:

• Dependence and Addiction: Prolonged use can lead to physical and psychological dependence.
• Growth Suppression: In children, amphetamines may cause slowed growth or weight gain.
• Heart Problems: Long-term use can increase the risk of heart problems, especially in those with pre-existing conditions.
• Mental Health Disorders: Chronic use can lead to changes in mood and behavior, including anxiety, depression, or worsening of pre-existing psychiatric disorders.

If you experience any serious side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Amphetamine:

• Storage:
  • Store amphetamine at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct light.
  • Store the medication in a secure place where others, especially children, cannot access it.
  • Do not store amphetamine in the bathroom, where it can be exposed to moisture.
• Disposal:
  • Do not flush amphetamine down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so.
  • The best way to dispose of unused or expired amphetamine is through a medicine take-back program. Contact your local pharmacy or waste disposal company for more information.
  • Mix the medication with an unpalatable substance (like dirt, cat litter, or coffee grounds), place the mixture in a sealed plastic bag, and throw it away in the household trash.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Signs of Overdose:
  • Severe agitation, restlessness, or hallucinations
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Severe headache
  • High fever, muscle stiffness, or confusion
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Unconsciousness or extreme drowsiness
• What to Do in Case of Overdose:
  • Call Emergency Services: Immediately contact emergency services (911) if you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms.
  • Contact Poison Control: You can also call the Poison Control Center for guidance on what to do next. The number is typically available 24/7.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are important to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and adjust the dose if needed.
• Lifestyle Considerations: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to help manage any potential side effects like appetite loss or weight changes.
• Mental Health: Be vigilant for any changes in mood or behavior and communicate these to your healthcare provider. Mental health side effects should be addressed promptly.
• Compliance: Use amphetamines exactly as prescribed. Do not increase the dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider of any other medications or supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

If you have any more questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.