Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine is a potent central nervous system (CNS) stimulant belonging to the amphetamine class of medications. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in patients who have not responded to other therapies, as well as for narcolepsy. Due to its high potential for abuse and dependence, methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance and is typically reserved for cases where alternative treatments are inadequate.
Methamphetamine is a CNS stimulant used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, with significant abuse potential requiring careful medical supervision.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N06BA03
- RxNorm
- 6816
- Generic
- Methamphetamine
- Class
- atc-n06
- Brands
- Desoxyn
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Methamphetamine is FDA-approved for treating ADHD (as a second-line option after other stimulants have been tried) and narcolepsy. It may also be used off-label for severe cases of exogenous obesity when other interventions have failed.
As a sympathomimetic amine, methamphetamine increases the release and inhibits the reuptake of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, enhancing alertness, attention, and concentration while reducing impulsive behavior and fatigue.
This medication carries a black box warning for high abuse potential and risk of sudden death with doses above recommended limits. It is contraindicated in patients with glaucoma, advanced arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, or history of substance abuse. Common side effects include decreased appetite, weight loss, insomnia, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. Regular monitoring of cardiovascular function and growth (in children) is required during treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy