Generic names (Common brand names):

• amphetamine sulfate
• amphetamine and dextroamphetamine resin complex
• dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine, Das, Dexampex, Ferndex, Oxydess II, Spancap No 1)
• methamphetamine (Desoxyn, Methampex)
• * This list may not include all brand names.

Amphetamines are stimulants. Stimulants increase the activity of neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) in parts of the brain that control our ability to pay attention and stay alert.

It is often said that stimulants sedate children because their brains are somehow different from adults. This is not the case. Children respond to stimulants the same way adults do.

Amphetamines are used to treat attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Stimulants help people with ADHD to learn. They:

• improve the ability to concentrate
• make one less easily distracted
• make one less impulsive
• improve memory.

Medications for ADHD do not improve poor social skills. They also do not replace family therapy, special education, or other treatment for ADHD. It is just one part of treatment of ADHD.

Amphetamines are used to treat narcolepsy (a sleep disorder with attacks of uncontrolled sleepiness).

Amphetamines can also be used for a short period of time to help people lose weight. This must be part of an organized weight loss program. Amphetamines are only to be used by people who have failed other weight loss methods.

Take as instructed by your health care provider.

Amphetamines can be habit-forming for some people. Do not increase how much you take or how often you take it without the advice of your health care provider.

Amphetamines come as a short-acting pill and a sustained-release pill. With the short-acting pill, most children with ADHD need a dose of medication in the morning and in the afternoon to help them control their behavior. The sustained-release pill may be an option for children who can not take a pill in the afternoon at school.

It may take several weeks before the effects of this medication becomes noticeable.

Sustained-release products should not be crushed or chewed.

Take a missed morning dose as soon as you remember. Do not take an afternoon dose too late in the day (past 6 p.m.). It may cause trouble sleeping. Do not take a double dose.

INFORM YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER

• about any past reactions to amphetamines
• if on any of the following medications
  • amantadine
  • appetite suppressants
  • beta blockers
  • caffeine
  • cocaine
  • digitalis glycosides
  • medication to treat asthma, other breathing problems, hay fever or other allergies, colds, or sinus problems
  • meperidine
  • methylphenidate
  • monoamine oxidase inhibitors
  • nabilone
  • pemoline
  • thyroid medication
  • tricyclic antidepressants

  If any of the following medical conditions are present:

  • alcohol abuse, now or in the past
  • tics or Tourette syndrome in the patient or a family member
  • high blood pressure
  • drug abuse or dependence, now or in the past
  • mental illness
  • glaucoma
  • seizures or convulsions
  • overactive thyroid P>
  Side effects: Some studies suggest that stimulants may increase tics in children with Tourette syndrome or even cause tics. Other studies have not shown this. If your child has Tourette syndrome, you should discuss the risks with your health care provider before your child takes stimulant medication.

ALCOHOL

Alcohol may increase the nervous system side effects of amphetamines. This could impair your ability to drive a car. Avoid drinking while you take this medication.
BREAST FEEDING
Amphetamines pass into breast milk in large amounts. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the manufacturers recommend that women who are breast feeding not use them. Notify your health care provider that you are breast feeding if you are advised to take this medication.
DISCONTINUING MEDICATION
Do so only under the health care provider's guidance. Report any of the following symptoms if they occur after discontinuation of the medication: depression sleep disturbances stomach cramps nausea or vomiting trembling feeling unusually weak or tired Stimulant medications help to control ADHD, but do not cure it. Medication may be taken for as long as it helps, which could be years. Your health care provider may ask you to take a drug holiday from time to time to help evaluate if the medication is still needed. ADHD can get much worse if you stop amphetamines suddenly. Do not stop taking your medication without advice from your health care provider. Follow instructions carefully.
DRIVING AND HAZARDOUS EQUIPMENT OPERATION
This medication can change the way you feel. Do not drive or use machinery that requires you to be alert until you know how it affects you.
INFANTS AND CHILDREN
The manufacturers do not recommend the use of amphetamines in children under the age of 3 years. They have not been studied in children that young. The use of amphetamines for weight loss is not recommended for children under the age of 12 years. The results of one study suggested that children who take stimulants for a long time may gain weight or grow taller more slowly. More recent studies have not shown this. Discuss it with your health care provider if you are concerned about this.
PREGNANCY
These medications have not been studied in pregnant women. Ask your health care provider for advice before using them if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
SEXUAL FUNCTION
• Increased or decreased sexual ability
• Impotence