Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine is indicated as an integral part of a total treatment program for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) which typically includes other remedial measures (psychological, educational, social) for a stabilizing effect in children over 6 years of age with a behavioral syndrome characterized by the following group of developmentally inappropriate symptoms: moderate to severe distractibility, short attention span, hyperactivity, emotional lability, and impulsivity. The diagnosis of this syndrome should not be made with finality when these symptoms are only of comparatively recent origin. Non-localizing (soft) neurological signs, learning disability, and abnormal EEG may or may not be present, and a diagnosis of central nervous system dysfunction may or may not be warranted.

• Methamphetamine is also indicated as a short-term (i.e., a few weeks) treatment for obesity as an adjunct in a regimen of weight reduction based on caloric restriction, for patients in whom obesity is refractory to alternative therapy, e.g., repeated diets, group programs, and other drugs.
• The limited usefulness of methamphetamine should be weighed against possible risks inherent in use of the drug, such as those described below.
• Methamphetamine is available under the following different brand names: Desoxyn.

Dosages of Methamphetamine

Adult and Pediatric Dosage Forms and Strengths

Tablet: Schedule II

• 5mg

Dosage Considerations – Should be Given as Follows:

Amphetamine has a high potential for abuse. Particular attention should be paid to the possibility of patients obtaining amphetamine for nontherapeutic use or distribution to others, and the drugs should be prescribed or dispensed sparingly.

Administration of amphetamine for prolonged periods of time may lead to drug dependence and must be avoided.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

• Adult, Initial: 5 mg orally once/day or every 12 hours; may increase the daily dose at weekly intervals of 5 mg/day until optimal response
• Adult, Maintenance: Usual effective dose is 20-25 mg/day; the daily dose may be divided every 12 hours
• Children under 6 years: Safety and efficacy not established
• Children 6 years and older: 5 mg orally once/day or every 12 hours, may increase the daily dose at weekly intervals of 5 mg/day until optimal response (usually 20-25 mg/day)
• The daily dose may be divided every 12 hours

Obesity, Short Term Treatment

• Adult: 5 mg orally every 8 hours, 30 minutes before each meal
• Children under 12 years: Safety and efficacy not established
• Children 12 years and older: As adults; 5 mg orally every 8 hours 30 minutes before each meal