Methamphetamine is a medication that can be prescribed for short-term obesity treatment and the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The medication can produce a calming effect in people with ADHD. Methamphetamine can also suppress appetite and boost metabolism for a short period of time, thus helping people lose weight. Side effects of methamphetamine may include headache, dry mouth, and insomnia. The medication, which is a form of amphetamine that can be addictive and abused, comes as an oral tablet.
Methamphetamine hydrochloride (
Desoxyn®) is a prescription medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (
ADHD). It is also used for short-term obesity treatment. Because methamphetamine is a type of amphetamine and is commonly abused, there are special rules for prescribing it
(see Methamphetamine: A Controlled Substance for more information).
Who Makes Methamphetamine?
Pharmaceutical methamphetamine is manufactured by Ovation Pharmaceuticals and sold under the brand name Desoxyn.
What Is Methamphetamine Used For?
As mentioned above, methamphetamine is licensed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD for short. In addition to hyperactivity (having trouble sitting still), people with ADHD have problems paying attention, focusing, and controlling their behavior. While most people think of ADHD as a problem in children, it can also occur in adults
(see Adult ADHD). Although methamphetamine has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating ADHD in adults, healthcare providers may prescribe it "
off-label" for adults with ADHD.
Methamphetamine is also licensed for obesity treatment. For this indication, methamphetamine is recommended only for short-term use (for a few weeks) and should be combined with calorie reduction and exercise.
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