ADHD & Desoxyn Abuse

Desoxyn, a prescription drug containing methamphetamine, can be abused by patients who have ADHD. Patients may start taking Desoxyn as directed and desire high doses over time, leading to abuse of their prescription.

ADHD patients with comorbid mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, may be at a higher risk of Desoxyn abuse. Desoxyn is a schedule II controlled substance in the United States, which means it has a high potential for drug abuse.

Desoxyn’s main ingredient, methamphetamine, sees widespread abuse as an illicit stimulant drug. As a prescription drug, its use can be heavily limited to the short-term treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity.

How Desoxyn Works As An ADHD Medication

Desoxyn can treat ADHD by reducing hyperactivity, distractibility, and impulsivity, while improving attention span and focus. Desoxyn can manage these ADHD symptoms due to its effects on dopamine, a neurotransmitter that controls motivation and reward.

ADHD patients who experience the positive effects of Desoxyn may desire higher doses of the drug. Patients may also experience tolerance to methamphetamine, where dosages become less effective to the body. This may have a similar effect of desiring higher doses over time.

Due to Desoxyn’s habit-forming potential, healthcare professionals may try to avoid prescribing Desoxyn for long periods of time.

Risk Factors For Desoxyn Abuse

ADHD patients with other preexisting conditions may be more likely to abuse Desoxyn. Patients who take Desoxyn under these conditions may be at a higher risk of both serious and common side effects.

History Of Substance Abuse

Patients with a history of substance abuse may also be at risk of abusing Desoxyn. Substance abuse of Desoxyn may involve taking higher doses than directed, or mixing Desoxyn with other drugs.

Desoxyn may have dangerous drug interactions with other medications and illicit substances. Taking Desoxyn with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), a type of antidepressant, can cause severe hypertension and cardiovascular collapse.

Comorbid Mental Health Problems

A 2017 article found that 15% of adolescent and young adult ADHD patients also had a substance use disorder. Similarly, 11% of SUD patients also met the criteria for ADHD.

Some aspects of ADHD, namely impulsivity, may cause patients to engage in excessive behaviors, such as illicit or reckless substance use. This may apply to other substances, such as alcohol, as well as medications for the treatment of ADHD itself, such as Desoxyn.

Substance use disorders can also occur alongside other mental health problems. Patients may wish to inform their doctor of any preexisting health conditions and their history of drug use.

Treatment For Desoxyn Abuse

Desoxyn is a potent central nervous system stimulant, similar in structure to other amphetamines. The risk of serious side effects, such as high blood pressure, significant weight loss, irregular heart rate, and drug addiction may increase when it is abused.

Taking Desoxyn as directed can decrease your risk of side effects. If you or a loved one are struggling with Desoxyn use, you may benefit from a drug addiction treatment program.

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