| Drug Index |
| GENERIC NAME : |
| methamphetamine |
| BRAND NAMES : |
| Desoxyn |
| STREET NAMES : |
| Chalk, Crystal, Glass, Ice, Meth, Speed, Tina |
| BRIEF DESCRIPTION : |
| Methamphetamine is a very addictive stimulant drug. Originally used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obesity, and narcolepsy, it is now easily make in illicit drug labs. It can be smoked, injected, or taken by mouth. Methamphetamine hydrochloride in the crystal form can be inhaled by smoking. Methamphetamine is similar in action to amphetamine, but has a greater effect on the central nervous system.  It affects the brain and can create feelings of pleasure, increase energy, and elevate mood. “Methamphetamine releases high levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which stimulates brain cells, enhancing mood and body movement. It also appears to have a neurotoxic effect, damaging brain cells that contain dopamine as well as serotonin, another neurotransmitter. Over time, methamphetamine appears to cause reduced levels of dopamine, which can result in symptoms like those of Parkinson's disease, a severe movement disorder” (http://www.nida.nih.gov/infofacts/methamphetamine.html). Symptoms of use may include: Inability to sleep Increased sensitivity to noise Nervous physical activity, like scratching Aggression, irritability, dizziness, or confusion Extreme anorexia Tremors or convulsions Increased heart rate, blood pressure, and risk of stoke Presences of inhaling paraphernalia, such as razor blades, mirrors, and straws, pipes Presence of injecting paraphernalia, such as syringes, heated spoons or surgical tubing |
| INDICATIONS FOR USE : |
| Desoxyn is used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It is given along with psychological, educational and social treatment. Desoxyn comes in 5, 10, or 15 mg tablets. |
| ABUSE AND ADDICTIVE POTENTIAL : |
| When taken orally or intranasally (snorting) euphoria is experienced. However, intravenous or inhalation causes an intense feeling “rush” or “flash” lasting for a few minutes. Abusers may become addicted quickly, developing dependence and needing higher doses more often. |
| OVERDOSAGE : |
| An overdose can result in heart failure. Long-term use can cause liver, kidney and lung damage and death. |
| CAUTIONS : |
| Meth made in clandestine drug labs is illegal in all states and is highly dangerous. The chemicals used to produce meth can cause fires, explosions, produce toxic vapors, and damage the environment. The hazardous materials contained at clandestine drug laboratory locations are classified and managed as hazardous wastes. Desoxyn should not be taken if one is taking a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor drug such as phenelzine or tranylcypromine. At least 14 days should lapse after stopping an MAO inhibitor and beginning therapy with Desoxyn. It should be avoided in people who have a history of glaucoma, advanced hardening of the arteries, heart disease, moderate to severe high blood pressure, or thyroid problems, or Tourette's syndrome. It should not be taken by people who are agitated or who have a history of drug abuse or children whose symptoms may be caused by stress or a psychiatric disorder (http://www.drugs.com/pdr/methamphetamine-hydrochloride.html). Meth users who share needles are at risk of acquiring HIV/AIDS |
| SIDE EFFECTS : |
| Changes in sex drive, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, exaggerated feeling of well-being, headache, hives, impaired growth, impotence, increased blood pressure, overstimulation, rapid or irregular heartbeat, restlessness, sleeplessness, stomach or intestinal problems, tremor, unpleasant taste, worsening of tics and Tourette's syndrome (severe twitching). Adverse health effects include irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure and a variety of psychological problems. Long-term effects may include severe mental disorders, memory loss, and severe dental problems. Meth can cause irreversible damage to blood vessels in the brain. |
| FOR MORE INFORMATION : |
http://www.drugs.com/pdr/methamphetamine-hydrochloride.html http://www.nida.nih.gov/Infofacts/methamphetamine.html |
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