Products
Methamphetamine is no longer registered as a drug in many countries. Pervitin has been out of commerce for some time. Methamphetamine is one of the narcotics and is subject to more stringent prescription requirements, but it is not a banned substance. In principle, medicines could be prepared in pharmacies as a magisterial prescription. In the USA, methamphetamine is commercially available in the form of tablets (Desoxyn).
Structure and properties
Methamphetamine (C10H15N, Mr = 149.2 g/mol) is an -methylated amphetamine. It is also known as methylamphetamine and is structurally closely related to ephedrine (deoxyephedrine). In drugs, it is present as -methamphetamine hydrochloride (dextromethamphetamine), a white, crystalline powder with a bitter taste that is readily soluble in water.
Effects
Methamphetamine (ATC N06BA03) is indirectly sympathomimetic, psychotropic, and centrally stimulating. It increases blood pressure, stimulates respiration, inhibits appetite, and dilates the bronchi. The effects are due to increased release of monoamines from presynaptic neurons. From our point of view, it should be administered very cautiously as a drug because of the possible health risks. It should not be used against obesity.
Indications
Methamphetamine is used to treat ADHD and obesity, and in the past it was also used for narcolepsy.
Abuse
Methamphetamine (meth, crystal meth, ice) is produced illegally and abused as a stimulant intoxicant, for example as a club drug. It is smoked, snorted, injected, and taken perorally.
Dosage
According to the drug label. Methamphetamine is usually administered once or twice daily.
Contraindications
Methamphetamine is contraindicated in hypersensitivity, concurrent or previous treatment with MAO inhibitors, glaucoma, advanced atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, drug abuse, hypertension, during pregnancy, and hyperthyroidism. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug interactions are possible with MAO inhibitors, stimulants, antidepressants, and neuroleptics, among others.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include, but are not limited to:
- Hypertension, rapid pulse, palpable heartbeats, cardiac arrest, arrhythmias.
- Psychosis, hallucinations, aggressive behavior.
- Dizziness, emotional upset, agitation, euphoria, insomnia, tremor, restlessness, headache.
- Worsening of tics
- Diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, taste disturbances, loss of appetite, other digestive problems.
- Hypersensitivity reactions, hives.
- Impotence, libido changes
- Growth disorders in children
When abused as an intoxicant, additional symptoms may include tolerence, severe psychological dependence, withdrawal symptoms, hyperactivity, hyperthermia, personality changes and social disorders. Abuse in the worst case can have a fatal outcome.
