Desoxyn Side Effects & Warnings

Methamphetamine hydrochloride (brand name Desoxyn) is considered a schedule II controlled substance according to the Controlled Substance Act.

This central nervous system (CNS) stimulant medication is helpful in treating symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), such as impulsivity or distractibility.

Because it is a controlled substance, Desoxyn has a high potential for abuse, especially in those struggling with obesity. Desoxyn may be used for weight loss in those who are obese, only if alternatives have proven ineffective.

Unfortunately, according to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), those who are obese and take this CNS stimulant for a long period of time may become dependent on the prescription drug.

Side Effects Of Desoxyn

As a central nervous system stimulant, Desoxyn produces a number of side effects. This medication increases dopamine in the brain and may release extremely high levels of dopamine when abused.

This can cause a euphoric “high” to be produced, potentially causing a person to take more of the drug than prescribed.
Desoxyn comes as a pill, but can ultimately be crushed and snorted, injected, or smoked. This type of drug abuse can lead to serious health conditions.

Short-Term Side Effects

There are many side effects of Desoxyn, but some of the common side effects that can occur short-term include:

• wakefulness
• fast heartbeat
• euphoria
• dry mouth
• constipation
• loss of appetite
• trouble sleeping

Desoxyn can be abused in a “binge and crash” pattern according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).

Once the feelings of euphoria wear off, a person may experience a “crash” that can cause side effects such as:

• increased appetite
• impaired memory
• fatigue
• depression
• chronic insomnia

Long-Term Side Effects

Depending on the history of drug abuse, side effects can range in severity.

Those abusing Desoxyn for a long period of time may experience long-term side effects such as:

• major mood swings
• blurred vision
• tics or muscle twitching
• chest pain
• severe weight loss
• paranoia
• high blood pressure
• insomnia

Withdrawal Symptoms

In addition to these side effects, serious withdrawal symptoms can occur if you abruptly stop taking Desoxyn. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), symptoms of Desoxyn withdrawal may include:

• depression
• loss of energy
• cravings for the drug
• confusion
• inability to keep an erection
• anxiety
• inability to feel pleasure
• fatigue

Desoxyn Warnings

Before taking Desoxyn or trying to abuse this prescription drug, it’s imperative to know the warnings for taking this type of prescription stimulant.

Cardiovascular Problems

Those with a family history of heart problems may experience a range of issues. Those with heart defects, malformations, or pre-existing hypertension are at an increased risk of heart rate fluctuations and a possible heart attack.

Circulation Problems

Those who take Desoxyn can experience circulation problems with their hands or feet, resulting in a condition known as Raynaud’s Phenomenon. When this occurs, fingers and toes may feel painful or turn blue in color.

Drug Interactions

From prescription drugs to illegal drugs, Desoxyn should not be combined with other medications.

To begin with, Desoxyn should not be taken with amphetamines such as Dexedrine, Ritalin, or Adderall. In addition to this, those taking certain supplements or vitamins should notify their doctor before taking Desoxyn.

Drug interactions can cause a number of serious side effects including allergic reactions, coma, and sudden death.

Serotonin Syndrome

Another potential life-threatening condition caused by combining certain antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) include the life-threatening serotonin syndrome, in which too much serotonin becomes active in your brain.

Serotonin syndrome can lead to symptoms such as:

• suicidal thoughts
• hallucinations
• fever
• shivering
• sweating

Other Medical Concerns

In addition to these serious warnings, there are a number of other medical concerns you should be aware of. If Desoxyn is prescribed by your doctor, follow their medical advice.

Those who belong in the following categories should speak with their healthcare provider immediately:

• those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
• those with a family history of glaucoma
• those with a history of seizures
• those with Tourette’s Syndrome
• those with bipolar disorder or history of mental illness

If you or a loved one struggle with stimulant drug abuse or addiction, help is available. To learn about our outpatient programs, please contact us today.