Other Brands/Names

Amphetamine is not available for general sale. It can only be used with a doctor’s prescription and must be taken under strict medical supervision. This drug belongs to the psychotropic class.

How it Works

Amphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant. It works by increasing the activity of certain brain chemicals, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine plays an important role in maintaining focus, creating feelings of pleasure and calmness, and regulating sleep.

Indications

Amphetamine is prescribed for ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), a condition in children that causes difficulty in focusing and paying attention. It is also prescribed to treat narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by excessive and uncontrollable sleep episodes.

Contraindications

Amphetamine should not be used by individuals with the following conditions:

• Allergy to amphetamines

• High blood pressure (hypertension)

• Anxiety disorders

• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland)

• Heart problems such as heart failure, history of heart attack, irregular heartbeat, aneurysm, or other vascular diseases

• Glaucoma (optic nerve damage leading to vision problems)

Side Effects

Common side effects that may occur include:

• Increased heart rate

• Sleep problems

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain

• Reduced appetite and weight loss

• Headaches or dizziness

• Mood changes, irritability, or anxiety

• Dry mouth and constipation

• Sexual side effects such as impotence in men

In rare cases, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) may occur, with symptoms such as breathing difficulty, and swelling of the face, lips, mouth, or throat. This requires emergency medical attention.

Types

Amphetamine is available in tablet and syrup forms.

Dosage

The dosage depends on age, medical condition, and treatment goals, and must always be determined by a doctor.

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

• Adults: Initial dose of 5 mg once or twice daily. The dose may be gradually increased depending on patient response. Maximum dose: 40 mg per day.

• Children (3–5 years): Starting dose of 2.5 mg daily, which may be increased as needed.

Narcolepsy

• Adults: Starting dose of 10 mg daily, taken in the morning. The dose may be adjusted as needed, up to a maximum of 60 mg daily.

• Children (6–11 years): Initial dose of 5 mg daily, taken in the morning.

Safety

Amphetamine is classified under Pregnancy Category C. Studies in animals have shown harmful effects on the fetus, but adequate studies in humans are not available. It is not recommended for breastfeeding women because it can pass into breast milk.

Drug Interactions

Amphetamine may interact with other medications and cause certain effects, including:

• Gastric medicines such as antacids or omeprazole, that can increase amphetamine side effects.

• Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline), that can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disorders.

• Blood pressure medications (e.g., valsartan, lisinopril, furosemide), that may become less effective when taken with amphetamine.

• Anticonvulsants such as phenytoin and phenobarbital, which may lose effectiveness when combined with amphetamine.

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